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Russell LT, Su-Russell C. Family functioning, contributions to college expenses, access to mentors, and college student's health and flourishing: Examining moderation by family structure. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:2269-2277. [PMID: 35944131 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2109035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate how family functioning, family contributions to college expenses, and access to mentors are associated with college student's self-reported health and flourishing, and to test for moderation by family structure. Participants: Undergraduate college students (N = 238) recruited through an email list-serve at a large midwestern state university. Methods: Participants completed an online survey (distributed through Qualtrics) in February 2020. Data were analyzed using linear regression (in SPSS 28) and simple slope analyses. Results: College students' access to mentors is associated with their self-reported health, and family structure moderates the association between family strengths and self-reported health. Family functioning and access to mentors are both associated with college students' flourishing. Conclusions: College students' health and flourishing may benefit from access to mentors and functional family dynamics. Though students from post-divorce families see fewer benefits from family strengths compared to peers in nuclear biological families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke T Russell
- Family and Consumer Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois, USA
| | - Chang Su-Russell
- Family and Consumer Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois, USA
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Clemente M, Espinosa P, Aguilar-Valera JA, Guevara-Cordero C. The Eye of the Beholder: Attitudes toward divorced parents and perception of children's happiness in Peru and Spain. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36260. [PMID: 39247327 PMCID: PMC11378926 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies of divorce's effects on children have been oriented toward the parents' characteristics, ignoring their extended families. In the current study we collected data from 414 participants, both divorced parents and the children's extended families in Peru (155) and Spain (259). Participants completed a questionnaire on attitudes toward the parents, and the Short Dark Tetrad questionnaire. Multivariate tests were conducted on participants' responses, showing that negative attitudes toward parents are not very strong but that attitudes toward fathers are more negative than attitudes toward mothers. Custodial parents are perceived less negatively, and parents who share custody are perceived the least negatively. Extended family members hold more negative attitudes against parents than the parents themselves. Mothers have significantly more negative attitudes toward fathers than the fathers towards mothers. Dark traits are a significant predictor of negative attitudes toward the mother but not toward the father. The perception of unhappiness in the child was predicted by negative attitudes toward the parents. Non-parents tend to evaluate both parents more negatively compared to parents' mutual perceptions. There was an effect on dark traits, negative attitudes against parents, and perception of unhappiness in the child. Peruvians scored significantly higher in all variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Clemente
- Universidade da Coruna (Spain), Department of Psychology, Elvina's Campus, 15071 A Coruna, Spain
| | - Pablo Espinosa
- Universidade da Coruna (Spain), Department of Psychology, Elvina's Campus, 15071 A Coruna, Spain
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Al-Smadi M, Abu Khait AF, Shahrour G, Hamaideh SH, Al-Omari H. The mediation role of social support in the relationship between bullying and depressive symptoms among Jordanian adolescents. J Pediatr Nurs 2024:S0882-5963(24)00290-2. [PMID: 39127588 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2024.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bullying in school is a universal psychosocial issue that raises concerns about adolescents' safety and mental health and is positively associated with depressive symptoms. Social support could be a preventive factor that eases bullying and its psychological distress. PURPOSE The primary purpose of this study was to examine the mediating effect of social support in the relationship between bullying and depressive symptoms among adolescents in Jordan. Another aim was to investigate predictors of depression based on adolescents' sociodemographic factors. METHODS In this cross-sectional, non-experimental mediational study, a stratified and systematic sampling method was used to recruit 270 Jordanian adolescents. RESULTS Sociodemographic variables of being female, having divorced parents, having illiterate fathers, and being older in adolescence explained 12.2% of the variance in depressive symptoms. Family social support partially mediated the relationship between bullying and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION Our findings showed that a notable proportion of adolescents experienced bullying victimization and depressive symptoms, and a positive relationship exists between these two variables. These results further highlight the role of family social support in buffering the negative impact of bullying on depressive symptoms. IMPLICATIONS TO PRACTICE The study's results emphasize the significance of developing and implementing family-centered social support initiatives by nurses to lessen adolescents' bullying experiences and depressive symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marah Al-Smadi
- Department of Nursing Science, Irbid National University 2600, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abdallah F Abu Khait
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13133, Jordan.
| | - Ghada Shahrour
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
| | - Shaher H Hamaideh
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.
| | - Hasan Al-Omari
- Department of Community and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.
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McLoughlin S, Kristjánsson K. Virtues as protective factors for adolescent mental health. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE 2024. [PMID: 39032006 DOI: 10.1111/jora.13004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
This paper explores the decline in adolescent mental health and the weakening of traditional moral frameworks, positing education in the virtues as protective of mental health due to the intrinsic link between moral/existential wellbeing and psychological health. By integrating character education into school curricula, a continuous "dosage" of moral guidance may be an optimal way to ensure a gradual and ever-clearer articulation of a life worth living and how to live well. The paper critiques popular clinical and positive psychological approaches to promoting wellbeing, which often miss the existential and moral dimensions of adolescent growth. The conclusion emphasizes the need for integrating moral education into mental health interventions to address the comprehensive existential and moral dimensions of adolescent development. This paper advocates for a proactive character developmental model that nurtures moral and existential growth, recognizing challenges with virtue and meta-virtue development as integral to personal and moral evolution, and enhancing the moral and psychological fortitude of adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane McLoughlin
- Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Claussen AH, Holbrook JR, Hutchins HJ, Robinson LR, Bloomfield J, Meng L, Bitsko RH, O'Masta B, Cerles A, Maher B, Rush M, Kaminski JW. All in the Family? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Parenting and Family Environment as Risk Factors for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2024; 25:249-271. [PMID: 35438451 PMCID: PMC9017071 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01358-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Parenting and family environment have significant impact on child development, including development of executive function, attention, and self-regulation, and may affect the risk of developmental disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This paper examines the relationship of parenting and family environment factors with ADHD. A systematic review of the literature was conducted in 2014 and identified 52 longitudinal studies. A follow-up search in 2021 identified 7 additional articles, for a total of 59 studies that examined the association of parenting factors with ADHD outcomes: ADHD overall (diagnosis or symptoms), ADHD diagnosis specifically, or presence of the specific ADHD symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. For parenting factors that were present in three or more studies, pooled effect sizes were calculated separately for dichotomous or continuous ADHD outcomes, accounting for each study's conditional variance. Factors with sufficient information for analysis were parenting interaction quality (sensitivity/warmth, intrusiveness/reactivity, and negativity/harsh discipline), maltreatment (general maltreatment and physical abuse), parental relationship status (divorce, single parenting), parental incarceration, and child media exposure. All factors showed a significant direct association with ADHD outcomes, except sensitivity/warmth which had an inverse association. Parenting factors predicted diagnosis and overall symptoms as well as inattentive and hyperactive symptoms when measured, but multiple factors showed significant heterogeneity across studies. These findings support the possibility that parenting and family environment influences ADHD symptoms and may affect a child's likelihood of being diagnosed with ADHD. Prevention strategies that support parents, such as decreasing parenting challenges and increasing access to parent training in behavior management, may improve children's long-term developmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika H Claussen
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Joseph R Holbrook
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Helena J Hutchins
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Research Participation Programs, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lara R Robinson
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeanette Bloomfield
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lu Meng
- Covid-19 Response Health System and Worker Safety Task Force, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca H Bitsko
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Brion Maher
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jennifer W Kaminski
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Al-Shekaili M, Al-Huseini S, Al-Kalbani Y, Mirza H, Chan MF, Hassan W, Al-Sulimani F, Al-Ghafri GS, Al-Sumri HS, Amer AB, Ganesh A, Al-Saadoon M, Al-Adawi S. Factors associated with anxiety-related symptoms in children and adolescents during COVID-19 in Oman: a cross-sectional study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9812. [PMID: 38684717 PMCID: PMC11058269 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59769-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Reports from different parts of the world suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdown and social distancing measures have heralded unprecedented mental health challenges among children and adolescents. To date, there is a dearth of studies emerging from the Arabian Gulf, where the majority of its population are children and adolescents. The study aims to examine the prevalence of anxiety-related symptoms and their covariates among children and adolescents in an Arabian Gulf country, Oman. This is a cross-sectional analytic study carried out over two weeks (1st to 15th of August 2020) during the COVID-19 pandemic across Oman. Parents were asked to complete the online survey, which consisted of the parent version of the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) instrument and questions regarding basic socio-demographic information. Logistic regression was used to identify the contributing variables associated with anxiety-related symptoms. A total of 790 valid responses were received. Among the 790 children, 33.3% (n = 263) were diagnosed with anxiety-related symptoms by the SCARED instrument. Logistic regression analysis suggested that anxiety-related symptoms in children and adolescents were significantly associated with three demographic variables. The model shows that children with divorced or separated parents were 1.9 times more likely to have anxiety-related symptoms than children of married couples (OR = 1.93, p = 0.035). Children living in families with an income below USD 1000/month, were 1.8 times more likely to have anxiety-related symptoms than a family with an income of USD 4000/month (OR = 1.833, p = 0.018). Children in grades 3-6 were 1.8 times more likely to have anxiety-related symptoms than those in grades 1-2 (OR = 1.79, p = 0.024). Anxiety-related symptoms are common among Omani children and adolescents. They are more likely to be reported in middle scholastic grade levels and children from families with marital discord and low socioeconomic status. It is not clear whether the presently observed rates of anxiety exceed the prevalence that would have been observed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. More studies are therefore warranted using children and adolescents' self-reported scales.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hassan Mirza
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Walid Hassan
- Al Massarah Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
- The Okasha Institute of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, El-Demerdash, El Abbassia, Cairo, 11657, Egypt
| | | | - Ghaniya Saif Al-Ghafri
- Directorate General of Health Services, Al Dhahira Governorate, Ibri Regional Hospital, Ministry of Health, Ibri, Oman
| | | | - Ahmed Bait Amer
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Aishwarya Ganesh
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Muna Al-Saadoon
- Department of Child Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Samir Al-Adawi
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman.
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Alibudbud R, Smith A, Liebrenz M, Arnado JM. Reframing divorce as a mental health policy issue in the Philippines. Lancet Psychiatry 2024; 11:241-242. [PMID: 38301675 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(24)00002-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Rowalt Alibudbud
- Department of Sociology and Behavioural Sciences, De La Salle University, Manila 0922, Philippines.
| | - Alexander Smith
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael Liebrenz
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Janet M Arnado
- Department of Sociology and Behavioural Sciences, De La Salle University, Manila 0922, Philippines
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Bala J, Newson JJ, Thiagarajan TC. Hierarchy of demographic and social determinants of mental health: analysis of cross-sectional survey data from the Global Mind Project. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075095. [PMID: 38490653 PMCID: PMC10946366 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand the extent to which various demographic and social determinants predict mental health status and their relative hierarchy of predictive power in order to prioritise and develop population-based preventative approaches. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of survey data. SETTING Internet-based survey from 32 countries across North America, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Australia, collected between April 2020 and December 2021. PARTICIPANTS 270 000 adults aged 18-85+ years who participated in the Global Mind Project. OUTCOME MEASURES We used 120+ demographic and social determinants to predict aggregate mental health status and scores of individuals (mental health quotient (MHQ)) and determine their relative predictive influence using various machine learning models including gradient boosting and random forest classification for various demographic stratifications by age, gender, geographical region and language. Outcomes reported include model performance metrics of accuracy, precision, recall, F1 scores and importance of individual factors determined by reduction in the squared error attributable to that factor. RESULTS Across all demographic classification models, 80% of those with negative MHQs were correctly identified, while regression models predicted specific MHQ scores within ±15% of the position on the scale. Predictions were higher for older ages (0.9+ accuracy, 0.9+ F1 Score; 65+ years) and poorer for younger ages (0.68 accuracy, 0.68 F1 Score; 18-24 years). Across all age groups, genders, regions and language groups, lack of social interaction and sufficient sleep were several times more important than all other factors. For younger ages (18-24 years), other highly predictive factors included cyberbullying and sexual abuse while not being able to work was high for ages 45-54 years. CONCLUSION Social determinants of traumas, adversities and lifestyle can account for 60%-90% of mental health challenges. However, additional factors are at play, particularly for younger ages, that are not included in these data and need further investigation.
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Boulton KA, Hodge A, Levu K, Ong N, Silove N, Guastella AJ. Access and barriers to supports for children and caregivers attending public child developmental assessment services: Findings from the Sydney child neurodevelopment research registry. Autism Res 2024; 17:555-567. [PMID: 38009266 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Families can spend years waiting for a developmental assessment. We sought to understand supports caregivers had accessed by the time of their child's first multi-disciplinary developmental assessment, the supports caregivers wanted, and the barriers caregivers reported to accessing these supports. We also sought to understand how government funding schemes (the National Disability Insurance Scheme) and sociodemographic factors influenced access to supports. Caregivers were emailed questionnaires on sociodemographic background and intervention history prior to their child's developmental assessment at a tertiary diagnostic and assessment service. Results from 202 caregivers showed most children were receiving less than 2 hours of support each week at assessment. The most common accessed supports were from general practitioners and pediatricians. Caregivers reported behavioral therapists (41%) and psychologists (29%) as the most desired but inaccessible child supports. Half of caregivers nominated a need for parenting interventions. The most frequent barriers to accessing child supports were wait lists, finance, and knowledge. Government funding improved access to the total number of services received (from 2.7 to 5.2 different services), but for disability specific services only (e.g., speech and occupational therapy). Results highlighted disparities for families without government funding, impacting certain groups (e.g., children over 7 years) and services (e.g., mental health). Socioeconomic disadvantage, parental separation, and, surprisingly, being from a non-culturally/linguistically diverse background were associated with fewer services and more barriers. Results highlight the need to facilitate access to supports for families to align with existing recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsie A Boulton
- Clinic for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
- Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Antoinette Hodge
- Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
- Child Development Unit, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | - Kelera Levu
- Clinic for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Natalie Ong
- Child Development Unit, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | - Natalie Silove
- Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
- Child Development Unit, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, Australia
| | - Adam J Guastella
- Clinic for Autism and Neurodevelopment (CAN) research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
- Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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Belisle LA, Pinchevsky GM, Ortega G. Examining the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among justice-involved youth in the U.S.: The importance of accounting for race/ethnicity, gender, and gendered racial/ethnic groups. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 149:106514. [PMID: 38359774 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth in the U.S. juvenile justice system are exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) at higher rates than youth in the general public. Additionally, research has demonstrated ACEs can vary by race/ethnicity and gender. However, little is known about how ACEs are experienced across gendered racial/ethnic groups of justice-involved youth. OBJECTIVE To address this gap, this exploratory study is the first to apply an intersectional lens to examine the prevalence of ACEs among a group of justice-involved youth in the U.S. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING Using secondary data, this study examines ACEs by gender, race/ethnicity, and six gendered racial/ethnic groups of justice-involved youth referred to the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. METHODS Descriptive analyses are presented by gender and race/ethnicity separately, followed by gendered racial/ethnic groups to understand differential rates of exposure to ACEs. RESULTS The study's findings align with previous research and reinforce that justice-involved youth experience higher rates of adversity than the general public. The results also support the feminist pathway's perspective within an intersectional context, emphasizing the importance of accounting for race/ethnicity and gender simultaneously to identify the unique experiences of ACEs among justice-involved youth. CONCLUSION Recommendations related to these findings and considerations surrounding ACE measures are discussed. Specifically, findings from this study stress the importance of accounting for gender and race/ethnicity simultaneously when measuring experiences of adversity. This is a critical step to providing equitable treatment and services to address trauma-related needs across gendered racial/ethnic groups of system-involved youth.
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Urbańska-Grosz J, Sitek EJ, Pakalska A, Pietraszczyk-Kędziora B, Skwarska K, Walkiewicz M. Family Functioning, Maternal Depression, and Adolescent Cognitive Flexibility and Its Associations with Adolescent Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:131. [PMID: 38275441 PMCID: PMC10814122 DOI: 10.3390/children11010131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explores family functioning and its associations with adolescent major depressive disorder (MDD), comparing its dynamics with healthy counterparts. Family functioning (cohesion, flexibility, communication, and satisfaction), maternal depressive symptoms, postpartum depression history, parental divorce, parental alcohol abuse, and the adolescents' cognitive flexibility, are examined. The research incorporates the perspectives of both adolescents and mothers. METHODS The sample includes 63 mother-teenager dyads in the clinical group and 43 in the control group. Instruments encompass the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales (FACES IV), Children's Depression Inventory (CDI-2), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), The Brixton Spatial Anticipation Test, and structured interviews. RESULTS Families of adolescents with MDD exhibit lower flexibility, cohesion, communication, and overall satisfaction. Depressed adolescents display reduced cognitive flexibility. Discrepancies were observed between adolescents' and mothers' perspectives as associated with adolescents' MDD. Teenagers emphasized the severity of maternal depressive symptoms, while mothers highlighted the importance of family cohesion and flexibility. CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes a holistic strategy in addressing adolescent depression, including family-based assessment and therapy. Screening for maternal depressive symptoms is identified as valuable. Cognitive flexibility also needs to be addressed during therapy for depression in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Urbańska-Grosz
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Neuropsychology, Neurolinguistics and Neuropsychotherapy, Division of Neurological and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-952 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Emilia J. Sitek
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
- Laboratory of Clinical Neuropsychology, Neurolinguistics and Neuropsychotherapy, Division of Neurological and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-952 Gdansk, Poland
- Department of Neurology, St. Adalbert Hospital, Copernicus PL, 80-462 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Anna Pakalska
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
| | - Bożena Pietraszczyk-Kędziora
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
| | - Kalina Skwarska
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
| | - Maciej Walkiewicz
- Rehabilitation Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Gdansk Health Center, 80-542 Gdansk, Poland; (J.U.-G.); (E.J.S.)
- Division of Quality of Life Research, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
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Reis RDC, Souza INB, Dias MCR, Mendes CMDM, Almeida KJ. Association of Parental Support with Reduced Stereotypy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1667. [PMID: 37763786 PMCID: PMC10534513 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To analyze the influence of parental presence and use of risperidone on social interaction and apathy among patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study in a reference center for patients with ASD in a city in northeastern Brazil. The research was carried out using a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Dimensional Apathy Scale, and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) with the domains of social interaction, language, stereotypy, and communication. The referred questionnaire was answered by the parents or guardians of the children with ASD according to the DSM V criteria. Data were analyzed via independent t-test using the SPSS software version 20. Results: Interviews were conducted with 51 parents/guardians of autistic children with a mean age of 8.8 years (±2.95) and a predominance of males, 34 (66.7%). Of this total, 49 (96.1%) of the children attended school; 40 (78.4%) children were on medication, of which 38 (74.5%) were on risperidone. Those children on risperidone had a higher score on the SCQ scale (p = 0.049) and on the domain of stereotyped behaviors (p = 0.033), which indicated greater impairment. Another statistically relevant variable was the presence of married parents, whereby children who did not have the presence of married parents had a higher average of stereotyped behaviors compared to those who had married parents. Conclusions: The results showed differences in the means of social interactions for children on risperidone, especially regarding stereotyped behaviors. However, it is not possible to state whether this difference was due to the use of risperidone or whether they used risperidone precisely because of these behaviors. Also important was that children who had the presence of married parents showed fewer stereotyped behaviors. There was no difference in apathetic behavior between children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renandro de Carvalho Reis
- Department of Medicine, University Center UNINOVAFAPI, Teresina 64073-505, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, University Center IDOMED/UniFacid, Teresina 64073-505, Brazil
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduation Program, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Kelson James Almeida
- Department of Medicine, University Center IDOMED/UniFacid, Teresina 64073-505, Brazil
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduation Program, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, Federal University of Piauí, Teresina 64049-550, Brazil
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Tran BT, Nguyen MT, Nguyen MT, Nguyen TG, Duc VNH, Tran TTM. Mental health and its determinants among adolescents living in families with separated or divorced parents in an urban area of Vietnam. Osong Public Health Res Perspect 2023; 14:300-311. [PMID: 37652685 PMCID: PMC10493697 DOI: 10.24171/j.phrp.2023.0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We assessed the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents living in families with separated or divorced parents in Hue City, Vietnam and identified factors associated with these conditions. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 309 adolescents, aged 12 to 17 years, living in families with separated or divorced parents in Hue City, Vietnam. The depression anxiety stress scale-21 (DASS-21) was used to measure stress, anxiety, and depression. Predictors of overall and individual mental health problems were identified using ordered and binary logistic regression, respectively. RESULTS The DASS-21 scale revealed a 49.2% prevalence of stress, while anxiety and depression had s prevalence rates of 61.5%. Among participants, 42.4% experienced all 3 mental health issues. Several factors were identified as significant predictors of mental health problems, including poor to average economic status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21-3.31; p=0.007); being in high school (aOR, 5.02; 95% CI, 2.93-8.60; p<0.001); maternal occupation of teacher, healthcare professional, or official (aOR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.13-5.03; p=0.022); longer duration of family separation or divorce (aOR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.05-1.45; p=0.009); living with one's mother (aOR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.03-2.76; p=0.04); alcohol consumption (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI, 0.99-2.92; p=0.050); and being bullied (aOR, 5.33; 95% CI, 1.10-25.69; p=0.037). Most of these factors were associated with stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, smoking was associated with stress. CONCLUSION Adolescents with separated or divorced parents were at increased risk of stress, anxiety, and depression. The findings of this study provide important implications for prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binh Thang Tran
- Faculty of Public Health, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Minh Tu Nguyen
- Undergraduate Training Office, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Minh Tam Nguyen
- Faculty of Public Health, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
- Family Medicine Department, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Thanh Gia Nguyen
- Faculty of Public Health, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Vo Nu Hong Duc
- Faculty of Public Health, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Thi Tra My Tran
- Department of Psychiatry, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
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Zhao X, Wang S, Yu Y, Zhang A, Tao F, Liu D, Sun Y. Association of Early Parent-Child Separation With Multidomain Implications in Adolescence and Emerging Adulthood: A Prospective Cohort Study in China. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:53-60. [PMID: 37037691 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to explore the long-term impacts of parent-child separation on a broad set of health and well-being indicators during adolescence and emerging adulthood. METHODS Participants were from the China Family Panel Studies, a national representative prospective cohort, and 2710 adolescents aged 7-15 years recruited from 25 provinces after an 8-year follow-up were eventually included in this study. We examined the association of prolonged parent-child separation with educational, social, emotional, and health-related outcomes by comparing participants with experience of prolonged parent-child separation and their counterparts staying with parents. RESULTS Participants who experienced prolonged parent-child separation in childhood were more likely to have lower educational attainment (odds ratio [OR]: 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03, 2.76; p = .04), depression (OR: 2.63, 95% CI: 1.28, 5.41; p = .008), marriage or cohabitation (OR: 2.79, 95% CI: 1.40, 5.57; p = .004), and ever-smoke (OR: 3.39, 95% CI: 1.95, 5.91; p < .001). Prolonged parent-child separation was also associated with a 0.64-year loss in educational attainment, 2.99- and 2.39-unit decreases in math and word test score, as well as 2.08 kg/m2 decreases in body mass index. DISCUSSION This nationally representative study indicates that prevention efforts that reduce exposure to parent-child separation in childhood could substantially reduce the lifetime prevalence of educational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive problems in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Zhao
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shihong Wang
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Anhui Zhang
- Wuhu Maternity & Child Health Care Center, Wuhu, Anhui, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Deyun Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Maternal, Child & Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui Province, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Lannes ÉEM, Kenny S, Hershon M, Talwar V, Kiafar A, Pennestri MH. Associations between parental relationship dissolution and child sleep: A systematic review. Sleep Med Rev 2023; 70:101804. [PMID: 37390636 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2023.101804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Parental relationship dissolution is considered one of the most common adverse childhood experiences. Although sleep is crucial for healthy development of children and very sensitive to environmental changes, it is poorly studied in the context of parental relationship dissolution. The aim of the current study was to systematically review and critically assess the existing literature on the associations between parental relationship dissolution and child sleep (0-18 years old; registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021272720)). PsycInfo, MEDLINE, Scopus, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, Social Work abstracts, and Web of Science Core Collection were searched. Published empirical quantitative studies were included if they reported statistics regarding the association between parental relationship dissolution and any child sleep variable. Out of the 358 articles screened, 14 articles met inclusion criteria and reported on several sleep dimensions: sleep quality, dreams and nightmares, and sleep disorders (enuresis, night terrors, and bruxism). Out of the 14 articles, six were longitudinal studies and eight were cross-sectional studies. While most studies found that parental relationship dissolution was associated with some indices of poorer child sleep, studies were generally of low to moderate quality. Health professionals should assess child sleep in the context of a parental relationship dissolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Émilie E M Lannes
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada; Hôpital en Santé Mentale Rivière-des-Prairies (CIUSSS-NIM), Quebec, Canada
| | - Samantha Kenny
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada; Hôpital en Santé Mentale Rivière-des-Prairies (CIUSSS-NIM), Quebec, Canada
| | - Malka Hershon
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada; Hôpital en Santé Mentale Rivière-des-Prairies (CIUSSS-NIM), Quebec, Canada
| | - Victoria Talwar
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anita Kiafar
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada; Hôpital en Santé Mentale Rivière-des-Prairies (CIUSSS-NIM), Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Hélène Pennestri
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Quebec, Canada; Hôpital en Santé Mentale Rivière-des-Prairies (CIUSSS-NIM), Quebec, Canada.
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16
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Ahuja M, Okoro J, Frimpong E, Doshi RP, Wani RJ. Feeling Not Wanted/Loved and Depression: Does Gender Matter? Psychol Rep 2023; 126:712-726. [PMID: 34969338 DOI: 10.1177/00332941211062822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Depression affects over 17 million American adults yearly and has been identified as the leading cause of disability in people between the ages of 15 and 44 years. There is evidence that feeling neglect or a lack of parental attachment during childhood is associated with depression. One construct that has been overlooked is love from a parent. The purpose of this study was to analyze the association between individuals who felt not wanted/loved during adolescence and lifetime depression and to examine this association by gender. We examined 5114 participants aged 24-32 years at Wave IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) public use dataset. We used logistic regression analysis to determine the association between an individual feeling not wanted/loved by their parent/caregiver prior to age 18, covariates, and lifetime depression. We then stratified by gender and ran logistic models for both men and women separately. Overall, 16.2% (n = 827) reported lifetime depression diagnosis, while 16.5% of the participants reported feeling not wanted/loved "often," while 29.8% reported it as "sometimes." Feeling not wanted/loved "often" was associated with higher odds of depression (AOR = 3.00; 95% CI, 2.45-3.66; p < .001) versus "sometimes" (AOR = 1.59; 95% CI, 1.31-1.90; p < .001). When stratified by gender, feeling not loved/wanted was associated with depression among both men (AOR = 3.70; 95% CI, 2.60-5.25; p < .001) and women (AOR = 2.73; 95% CI, 2.13-3.48; p < .001). Feeling not loved or wanted by a parent/caregiver during adolescence has serious implications, for both men and women. Future studies should further examine this construct and identify family-based interventions that focus on parent/caregiver and child relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manik Ahuja
- College of Public Health, 4154East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Joy Okoro
- College of Public Health, 4154East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Esther Frimpong
- College of Public Health, 4154East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Riddhi P Doshi
- Center for Population Health, 7712University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington CT, USA
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Yu Y, Liu J, Skokauskas N, Liu F, Zhang L, Teng T, Zou Y, Lyu Q, Liu R, Liu X, Meng H, Zhou X. Prevalence of depression and anxiety, and associated factors, among Chinese primary and high school students: A cross-sectional, epidemiological study. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2023; 15:e12523. [PMID: 36596718 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety, and associated factors, among Chinese children and adolescents aged 8-18 years who attend primary or high school. METHODS A total of 23 005 primary and high school students were recruited from February to December, 2019 for this cross-sectional study. The questionnaire included demographic information, questions assessing suicidality, resilience, depression (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children), and anxiety (Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders). Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the independent correlates of depression and anxiety. RESULTS Overall, 13.06% of participants experienced depressive symptoms, 22.34% experienced anxiety symptoms, 26.34% experienced transient suicidal ideation, 2.23% had serious suicidal ideation, and 1.46% had a history of suicide attempts. Anxiety (odds ratio [OR], 4.935; 95% confidence interval [CI][4.442-5.485]), suicidality (OR, 2.671; 95% CI[2.203-3.237]), skipping breakfast (OR, 1.920; 95% CI[1.348-2.736]), sleep duration (OR, 0.470; 95% CI[0.398-0.556]) and self-expectations (OR, 1.924; 95% CI[1.550-2.389]) were associated with depression (all p < .05). Depression (OR, 4.424; 95% CI[3.983-4.914]), female sex (OR, 1.903; 95% CI[1.759-2.060]), school-based traumatic experience(s) (OR, 1.905; 95% CI[1.747-2.077]), relationships with teachers (OR, 1.575; 95% CI[1.103-2.249]), and suicidality (OR, 1.467; 95% CI[1.218-1.766]) were associated with anxiety symptoms (all p < .05). DISCUSSION Depression and anxiety are common among school-age children and adolescents in China. Childhood school- and family-based traumatic experience(s), female sex, and lifestyle factors (eating breakfast, sleep duration, exercising, and Internet use) are significantly associated with mental health among children and adolescents. Developing interventions targeting these factors to protect students from depression and anxiety are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Yu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaxiu Liu
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Norbert Skokauskas
- Regional Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Child Protection, IPH, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Feng Liu
- College of Medical Informatics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Teng Teng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Yaru Zou
- Academic of Pediatrics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qian Lyu
- Second Clinical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Second Clinical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyue Liu
- First Clinical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huaqing Meng
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Majid M, Ab Rahman A, Taib F. Adverse Childhood Experiences and Health Risk Behaviours among the Undergraduate Health Campus Students. Malays J Med Sci 2023; 30:152-161. [PMID: 36875202 PMCID: PMC9984113 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.1.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked with health risk behaviours (HRBs). The study aimed to evaluate ACEs in the undergraduate health campus of a public university located in the northeast of Malaysia and determine their association with HRBs. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed by recruiting 973 undergraduate students at the health campus of a public university from December 2019 to June 2021. The World Health Organization (WHO) ACE-International Questionnaire and the Youth Risk Behaviour Surveillance System questionnaire were distributed using simple random sampling according to year of study and the selected batch of students. Descriptive statistics were used for demographic findings and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between ACE and HRB. Results The 973 participants (male [n = 245] and female [n = 728]) had a median age of 22 years old. The prevalence of child maltreatment among the study population was 30.2%, 29.2%, 28.7%, 9.1% and 6.1% for emotional abuse, emotional neglect, physical abuse, physical neglect and sexual abuse, respectively, among both sexes. The most commonly reported household dysfunctions were parental divorce/separation (5.5%). Community violence was 39.3% among the surveyed participants. The highest prevalence of HRBs among respondents was 54.5% from physical inactivity. The findings confirmed that those exposed to ACEs were at risk of HRBs and that a higher number of ACEs was associated with a higher number of HRBs. Conclusion ACEs were highly prevalent among participating university students, ranging from 2.6%-39.3%. Hence, child maltreatment is an important public health problem in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mardhiah Majid
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Azriani Ab Rahman
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Fahisham Taib
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia.,Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Intergenerational continuity of parent-child separation among mother-offspring dyads: Implication for child cognitive development in rural China. Soc Sci Med 2022; 315:115538. [PMID: 36402011 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The labor migration in China often leads to parent-child separation. Research to date has primarily focused on understanding mental and cognitive outcomes for children exposed to parent-child separation, with little consideration for the cumulative effects of intergenerational continuity of parent-child separation. A total of 2729 children between the ages of 4 and 6, along with one parent (primarily mothers, 86.2%) and/or one primary caregiver (if the child is separated from both parents), were recruited in the rural area of Anhui Province, China. A unique subsample of children (n = 249) with persistent experience of parent-child separation or whose mother reported being left behind by her parents during early childhood were enrolled for cognitive assessment. A total of 239 age-, gender- and residence-matched children without any parent-child separation experience were selected as the control group. Child cognitive performance was examined with the Chinese version of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Fourth edition (WPPSI-IV). The association between intergenerational continuity of parent-child separation and child cognition was described using multivariate OLS regression models. Compared to mother-offspring dyads without any history of parent-child separation, girls (n = 236/450, 52.4%) who experienced the intergenerational continuity of parent-child separation showed a significant decrease of 5.73 points (95% CI: -9.83, -1.62; p = 0.006) on full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and a decrease of 5.71 points (95% CI: -9.80, 1.63; p = 0.006) on verbal comprehension index. No similar result was observed in boys. The cumulative effects of parent-child separation among mother-offspring dyads on child cognitive development highlight the need for effective early intervention to break the intergenerational cycle of disadvantage. Sex differences and possible epigenetic mechanisms underlying the intergenerational effects of parent-child separation warrant further investigation.
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Lung FW, Chen PF, Shen LJ, Shu BC. Families with high-risk characteristics and diagnoses of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and learning disability in children: A national birth cohort study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:758032. [PMID: 36275285 PMCID: PMC9583264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.758032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A national birth cohort study was used to investigate whether high-risk family factors at 1.5-year-olds can increase the risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis when children reach 5.5 years. The pathway relationship of high-risk family factors, children's developmental conditions, risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and diagnosis of intellectual disability (ID), learning disability (LD), and ASD was also investigated. Methods The 1.5-, 3- and 5.5-year-old Taiwan Birth Cohort Study (TBCS) dataset was used (N = 19,185). The high-risk familial factor was measured using five questions assessing whether parents are currently unmarried, unemployed, do not have any social insurance, perceive a “very heavy” economic childcare burden, and at least one of the parents has a disability certification. Developmental conditions were assessed using the Taiwan Birth Cohort Study—Developmental Instrument (TBCS-DI), and ASD risk was measured using the Modified Checklist of Autism in Toddlers. Data on ADHD, ID, LD, and ASD diagnoses were collected at age 5.5. The odds ratio model investigated whether children from families with high-risk factors at 1.5-years were at increased risk of ADHD, ID, LD, or ASD diagnosis at 5.5-years, compared to those children from families without such risks. Structural equation modeling investigated the logistic regression pathway relationship of high-risk familial characteristics, children's developmental conditions, autism screening, and diagnosis. Results In the national birth cohort dataset of 19,185 children, 2070 (10.8%) met at least one of the high-risk familial factors. Children who met one high-risk familial factor had a 1.21-fold increased risk for ADHD diagnosis, 1.36-fold increased risk for LD diagnosis, and 1.80-fold increased risk for ASD diagnosis, compared to children from families without risks. High-risk familial factors directly increased the risk of ADHD and ID diagnosis, and indirectly increased the risk of ADHD, ID, LD, and ASD diagnosis through the mediating factor of children's development. Conclusions Children who met more high-risk familial characteristics were at higher risk of ADHD, ID, LD, and ASD diagnosis. Development at three years was predictive of diagnosis at 5.5 years. Thus, developmental screening at age three is vital for interventions. Preventive, family-focused, and/or child-rearing services for at-risk families are important for improving outcomes for these children and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- For-Wey Lung
- Calo Psychiatric Center, Pingtung County, Taiwan
- National Defense Medical Center, Graduate Institute of Medical Science, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Graduate Program of Education and Human Development, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Institute of Education, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Fei Chen
- Calo Psychiatric Center, Pingtung County, Taiwan
| | - Li-Jong Shen
- Department of Mental and Oral Health, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bih-Ching Shu
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Bih-Ching Shu
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Akezhuoli H, Lu J, Zhao G, Xu J, Wang M, Wang F, Li L, Zhou X. Mother's and Father's Migrating in China: Differing Relations to Mental Health and Risk Behaviors Among Left-Behind Children. Front Public Health 2022; 10:894741. [PMID: 35719620 PMCID: PMC9203828 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.894741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundIn China, the figure for left-behind children (LBC) of migrants stood at 68. 77 million in 2015. Despite being seen as a whole in the last few decades, LBC today differ broadly in parental migrating status. This study focused on LBC with both parents migrating (BLBC), LBC with only mothers migrating (MLBC), LBC with only fathers migrating (FLBC), and previous LBC with one or both parents migrating (PLBC), separately. We aimed at exploring the extent to which LBC were being affected by each migrant parent on both mental health and risk behaviors.MethodsData from 4,832 children were collected by a school-based survey in both rural and urban areas of China's Anhui province. Each participant anonymously completed a self-administered questionnaire containing the sociodemographics, the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), the items from the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS), and Young's Internet Addiction Test for Chinese (YIAT-C). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the Chi-squared test. Associations were estimated by multiple linear regression and logistic regression analyses adjusted for several confounders.ResultsThe results suggested that BLBC (p < 0.001), MLBC (p < 0.05), FLBC (p < 0.01), and PLBC (p < 0.001) significantly scored higher for total difficulties along with emotional symptoms and conduct problems than never left-behind children (NLBC). Besides, BLBC, FLBC, and PLBC further reported a significantly higher rate of smoking (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively) and drinking (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, and p < 0.01, respectively) than did NLBC. Also, MLBC appeared higher risks of smoking problems [OR = 2.31, 95% CI (1.45–3.69), p < 0.001] and the internet addiction [OR = 2.15, 95% CI (1.24–3.72), p < 0.01], when compared to NLBC.ConclusionsThe findings provided insight into LBC within the different contexts of parental migrations and contributed to a better understanding of their specific and potentially persistent health risks. Correspondingly, the study highlighted the implications for differentiating LBC to capture the more vulnerable group and tailored interventions to prioritize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailati Akezhuoli
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Lu
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guanlan Zhao
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiayao Xu
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Menmen Wang
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Wang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Feng Wang ;
| | - Lu Li
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
- Lu Li ;
| | - Xudong Zhou
- Institute of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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22
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Sampogna G, Ventriglio A, Di Vincenzo M, Del Vecchio V, Giallonardo V, Bianchini V, Fiorillo A. Mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:432-438. [PMID: 36151840 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2021.2019686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound negative impact on the mental health of the general population. The COVID-19 pandemic and its related containment measures have increased structural disadvantages faced by marginalized communities, such as LGBTQ+ people. LGBTQ+ is an acronym used to identify lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people plus all community members using different terms to describe their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is likely that the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed them to increased minority stress, which can also affect their physical health. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the few available studies on the mental health of LGBTQ+ have reported frequent worries about the future, negative emotions, and feelings of uncertainty. Moreover, they have faced further difficulties such as undertaking hormone therapy, accessing to health facilities or living with family members not accepting their condition. The COVID-19 pandemic has added a significant burden to the well-being of LGBTQ+ people, and therefore there is the need to provide them with dedicated supportive interventions in order to promote the early detection of mental health problems or of full-blown mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Vincenzo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Del Vecchio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Giallonardo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Bianchini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Psychiatric Unit: Trattamenti Riabilitativi Psicosociali, Interventi Precoci, TRIP, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Treatment, Early Interventions University Unit, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, Naples, Italy
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23
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Stannard S, Berrington A, Alwan NA. The mediating pathways between parental separation in childhood and offspring hypertension at midlife. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7062. [PMID: 35488035 PMCID: PMC9054745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11007-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Social life course determinants of adult hypertension are relatively unknown. This paper examines how parental separation before age 10 relates to hypertension at age 46. Adjusting for parental confounders and considering the role of adult mediators, we aim to quantify unexplored mediating pathways in childhood using prospectively collected data. Data from the 1970 British Birth Cohort Study are utilised. Hypertension is measured by health care professionals at age 46. Potential mediating pathways in childhood include body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, illness, disability, family socioeconomic status (SES) and cognitive and developmental indicators at age 10. Additionally, we explore to what extent childhood mediators operate through adult mediators, including health behaviours, family SES, BMI and mental wellbeing. We also test for effect modification of the relationship between parental separation and hypertension by gender. Nested logistic regression models test the significance of potential mediating variables. Formal mediation analysis utilising Karlson Holm and Breen (KHB) method quantify the direct and indirect effect of parental separation on offspring hypertension at midlife. There was an association between parental separation and hypertension in mid-life in women but not men. For women, family SES and cognitive and behavioural development indicators at age 10 partly mediate the relationship between parental separation and hypertension at age 46. When adult mediators including, health behaviours, family SES, BMI and mental wellbeing are included, the associations between the childhood predictors and adult hypertension are attenuated, suggesting that these childhood mediators in turn may work through adult mediators to affect the risk of hypertension in midlife. We found family SES in childhood, cognitive and behaviour development indicators at age 10, including disruptive behaviour, coordination and locus of control in childhood, to be important mediators of the relationship between parental separation and midlife hypertension suggesting that intervening in childhood may modify adult hypertension risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Stannard
- Department of Social Statistics and Demography, University of Southampton, Building 58, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK. .,ESRC Centre for Population Change, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
| | - Ann Berrington
- Department of Social Statistics and Demography, University of Southampton, Building 58, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK.,ESRC Centre for Population Change, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nisreen A Alwan
- School of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton, UK
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24
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Freeman JA. The Influence of Parental Religiosity on the Health of Children during Late Adolescence/Early Adulthood: A Test of Mediation. SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES : SP : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PACIFIC SOCIOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2022; 65:297-327. [PMID: 35340529 PMCID: PMC8942116 DOI: 10.1177/0731121421990061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The present study explores whether adolescent religiosity, health-related behaviors, and marital stability mediate the association between parental religiosity and health. Using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult (Add) Health, I model potential direct and indirect effects between three measures of parental religiosity (i.e., parental institutional religiosity, parental personal religiosity, and parental religious affiliation); three sets of mediators indicating adolescent religiosity, health-related behaviors, and marital stability; and self-rated health during late adolescence/early adulthood. Overall, I found that parental institutional religiosity has a direct effect on the self-rated health of children during late adolescence/early adulthood, and that it influences self-rated health by reducing adolescent and parental smoking. I also found evidence for deleterious effects of parental institutional religiosity on health as well. Future research should explore variation in the influence of parental religiosity on self-rated health between various sociodemographic groups and between different stages of the life course.
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25
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Shah H, Nebhinani N, Agarwal V, Ghosh S, Seshadri S. Nuances of Forensic Child psychiatry - A special focus on child custody, corporal punishment, and the relevance of the Mental Health-Care Act for children and adolescents. Indian J Psychiatry 2022; 64:S154-S162. [PMID: 35599662 PMCID: PMC9122149 DOI: 10.4103/indianjpsychiatry.indianjpsychiatry_57_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Henal Shah
- Department of Psychiatry, TNMC and Nair Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Naresh Nebhinani
- Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vivek Agarwal
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sreyoshi Ghosh
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India E-mail:
| | - Shekhar Seshadri
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India E-mail:
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26
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Chi X, Huang L, Hall DL, Li R, Liang K, Hossain MM, Guo T. Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Among Chinese College Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study. Front Public Health 2021; 9:759379. [PMID: 34900908 PMCID: PMC8655775 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.759379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A longitudinal assessment of the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and risk factors is indispensable for further prevention and/or treatment. The longitudinal web-based survey enrolled 1,164 college students in China. Measured at two time points (February and August 2020), PTSS, demographic information, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), resilience and self-compassion information were collected to explicate the prevalence and predictors of PTSS concurrently and over time. Results showed that although PTSS generally declined throughout the 6 months after the outbreak of COVID-19, the prevalence remained relatively high. Resilience and self-compassion negatively predicted PTSS concurrently and longitudinally. While subjective family socioeconomic status (SES) and ACEs at Wave 1 did not predict PTSS under COVID-19 at Wave 1, but both significantly predicted PTSS at Wave 2. Findings implicate potential targets for detecting and intervening on symptoms of trauma in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinli Chi
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liuyue Huang
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Daniel L. Hall
- Health Policy Research Center, Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Raissa Li
- Health Policy Research Center, Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kaixin Liang
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Md Mahbub Hossain
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Tianyou Guo
- School of Psychology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Obeid S, Al Karaki G, Haddad C, Sacre H, Soufia M, Hallit R, Salameh P, Hallit S. Association between parental divorce and mental health outcomes among Lebanese adolescents: results of a national study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:455. [PMID: 34657599 PMCID: PMC8522189 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02926-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Lebanon, divorce rates have jumped from nearly 7000 in recent years to 8580 in 2017, an increase of 22.5%, with North Lebanon recording the highest number, followed by Beirut, likely resulting in increased behavioral problems in the offspring of divorced parents. Furthermore, one out of two Lebanese adolescents whose biological parents were divorced, separated, or deceased has a psychiatric disorder. More information regarding the impact of divorce on the mental health of Lebanese adolescents is still missing. The objective of this study was to explore the association between divorce and mental health outcomes, particularly depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among Lebanese adolescents. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted between January and May 2019 enrolled 1810 adolescents aged 14 to 17 years, using a simple randomization method to choose schools. A proportionate number of schools was selected from each of the five Lebanese Mohafazat (Beirut, Mount Lebanon, North, South, and Beqaa), based on the list of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. A total of 18 private schools were approached; two declined, and 16 accepted to participate. Results The mean age of participants was 15.42 ± 1.14 years, with 53.3% females. After adjustment for the covariates (age, sex, and house crowding index), the results showed that adolescents whose parents are separated compared to living together had more social fear (Standardized Beta (SB = 0.270) and avoidance (SB = 0.188), higher depression (SB = 0.045), and higher suicidal ideation (SB = 0.370). Conclusion Our findings reveal that teens with divorced parents had higher social fear and avoidance, depression, and suicidal ideation, highlighting the need for adequate prevention programs to support both children and parents during this emotionally difficult period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Obeid
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon. .,INSPECT-LB: National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology, and Toxicology, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Gloria Al Karaki
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.,Université de Limoges, UMR 1094, Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000, Limoges, France
| | - Hala Sacre
- INSPECT-LB: National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology, and Toxicology, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Michel Soufia
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Rabih Hallit
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT-LB: National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology, and Toxicology, Beirut, Lebanon.,University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon. .,Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
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28
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Coid JW, Zhang Y, Yu H, Li X, Tang W, Wang Q, Deng W, Guo W, Zhao L, Ma X, Meng Y, Li M, Wang H, Chen T, Li T. Confirming diagnostic categories within a depression continuum: Testing extra-linearity of risk factors and a latent class analysis. J Affect Disord 2021; 279:183-190. [PMID: 33059221 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dimensions are recommended as replacements for diagnostic categories of depression, but clinicians continue to use categories. Categories are appropriate if major, underlying changes in symptom structure occur above a clinical cut-off on a depression continuum. METHODS Cross-sectional surveys of Chinese undergraduates (n = 39,446) 2014-2018 measured self-reported depressive symptoms, associated psychopathology and etiological risk factors using standardised instruments. We created a continuum using PHQ-9 scores and tested linear and extra-linear contrasts in associated psychopathology, and etiology. We carried out latent class analyses (LCA). RESULTS Most symptoms showed linear increase, but depressed mood, anhedonia, and suicidal ideation showed marked increase at the severe end of the continuum. There was extra-linear increase in associated psychotic symptoms, other psychopathology, age, low family income, chronic pain and physical illness, childhood physical and sexual abuse, and neglect. Four LCs corresponding to Melancholic, Severe melancholic, Non-melancholic, and Mild depression were confirmed, but only above a clinical cut-off along the continuum. Etiological risk factors did not differentiate between classes but showed overall dramatic increase in impact above threshold of clinical severity. LIMITATIONS Only one self-report instrument was used (PHQ-9) to measure depression and diagnoses were not validated by clinical interviews. CONCLUSIONS Categories are necessary to describe the dramatic changes in underlying structure and symptom associations above a clinical threshold of severity. These result from extra-linear impact of etiological risk factors at the severe end of the depression continuum. Although the study confirmed melancholic and non-melancholic subtypes, further investigation should investigate etiological factors that determine this subdivision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W Coid
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yamin Zhang
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hua Yu
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanjie Tang
- Institute of Emergency Management and Post-disaster Reconstruction, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Centre for Psychological Educational and Consultation, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Deng
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wanjun Guo
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liansheng Zhao
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaohong Ma
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yajing Meng
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingli Li
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huiyao Wang
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tao Li
- Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; West China Brain Research Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Centre for Psychological Educational and Consultation, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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29
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Luciano M, Sampogna G, Del Vecchio V, Giallonardo V, Perris F, Carfagno M, Raia ML, Di Vincenzo M, La Verde M, Torella M, Fiorillo A. The Transition From Maternity Blues to Full-Blown Perinatal Depression: Results From a Longitudinal Study. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:703180. [PMID: 34803751 PMCID: PMC8595294 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.703180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The aims of the present study are to: (1) assess the frequency of maternity blues (MB); (2) identify the clinical and social characteristics more frequently associated with the onset of depressive symptoms after delivery; and (3) verify the hypothesis that the presence of maternity blues is a risk factor for the onset of a full-blown depressive episode in the 12 months after delivery. Methods: This is a longitudinal observational study. All pregnant women who gave birth at the inpatient unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" from December 2019 to February 2021 have been invited to participate in the study. Upon acceptance, women were asked to complete the Italian version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale along with an ad-hoc questionnaire on the women's sociodemographic, gynecological and peripartum characteristics as well as their psychiatric history. Women have been reassessed after one, 3, 6 and 12 months. Results: A total of 359 women were recruited within 3 days from delivery, with a mean EPDS total score of 5.51 (±4.20). Eighty-three women (23.1%) reported the presence of maternity blues. Mean EPDS total scores were 12.8 (±0.2) in the MB group vs. 4.26 (±0.2) in the group without MB (p <0.0001). MB predictors were the presence of an anxiety disorder with an onset 6 months prior to pregnancy, of preeclampsia, of increased fetal health rate, of conflicts with relatives other than partner and having a partner with an anxiety disorder. At multivariate analyses the presence of MB increased 7-time the risk to have a higher EPDS score at follow-up assessments (OR: 7.79; CI: 6.88-8.70, p <0.000). This risk is almost four times higher 1 months after the delivery (OR: 4.66; CI: 2.54-6.75, p < 0.000), almost three times higher after 3 months (OR: 2.98; CI: 0.50-5.46, p < 0.01) and almost six times higher after 12 months (OR: 5.88; CI: 3.20-8.54, p < 0.000). Conclusions: Although MB was a self-limiting condition in the majority of cases, depressive symptoms arose quite often immediately after the childbirth. Professionals should be trained to monitor symptoms of MB and its transition toward a depressive episode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Luciano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Del Vecchio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Giallonardo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Perris
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Carfagno
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Luce Raia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Vincenzo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania, "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco La Verde
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Torella
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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30
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Sampogna G, Giallonardo V, Del Vecchio V, Luciano M, Albert U, Carmassi C, Carrà G, Cirulli F, Dell'Osso B, Menculini G, Belvederi Murri M, Pompili M, Sani G, Volpe U, Bianchini V, Fiorillo A. Loneliness in Young Adults During the First Wave of COVID-19 Lockdown: Results From the Multicentric COMET Study. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:788139. [PMID: 34955932 PMCID: PMC8703162 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.788139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the mental and physical health of the general population at any age, but it is expected to have a protracted and severe consequences for younger populations. The pandemic has had several consequences on mental health including anger and irritability, depressive symptoms and somatic complaints, insomnia, lack of motivation, and loneliness. In particular, loneliness and its related negative feelings are thought to be particularly pronounced during young adulthood because of the many social changes that young people deal with during this period of life. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the type of impact of the pandemic on the mental health of young people and their levels of loneliness experienced during the first phase of the lockdown. Based on the largest Italian study on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of general population, in this paper we aim to: (1) describe the levels of loneliness in a national sample of Italian young adults aged 18-34 years, during the first wave of lockdown in 2020; (2) evaluate the clinical and socio-demographic differences in young adults reporting low vs. high levels of loneliness; (3) assess the role of clinical symptomatology, coping strategies, levels of resilience, and duration of lockdown as possible predictors of loneliness. The final sample consists of 8,584 people, mainly female (72.6%), single, with a mean age of 26.4 (±4.4) years. The mean score at the UCLA was 47.5 (±13.6), with 27% (N = 2,311) of respondents exceeding the cut-off for high levels of loneliness. High levels of loneliness were predicted by the presence of avoidant coping strategies, such as self-distraction (Beta coefficient, B = 0.369, 95% Confidence Interval, CI = 0.328-0.411), venting (B = 0.245, 95% CI = 0.197-0.293), denial (B = 0.110, 95% CI = 0.061-0.159), and emotional disengagement (B = 0.133, 95% CI = 0.080-0.185). Weeks of exposure to the pandemic were significantly associated with worsening of loneliness (p < 0.000). There is currently considerable interest in trying to reduce loneliness, both within the context of COVID-19 and more generally. Our results highlight that young people are at a higher risk of developing loneliness and suggest that more interventions and practical guidelines are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Giallonardo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Del Vecchio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Luciano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Umberto Albert
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.,Department of Mental Health, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina-ASUGI, Trieste, Italy
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Cirulli
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell'Osso
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Luigi Sacco and Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Brain Therapeutic, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Martino Belvederi Murri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sani
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, University Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Clinical Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valeria Bianchini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Psychiatric Unit: Trattamenti Riabilitativi Psicosociali, Interventi Precoci, TRIP, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Treatment, Early Interventions University Unit, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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Development of a Family-Based Mental Health Program for Runaway Adolescents Using an Intervention Mapping Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17217794. [PMID: 33114457 PMCID: PMC7663162 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The mental health and related quality of life of runaway adolescents are global public health issues. As few intervention studies have considered the family contexts of runaway adolescents, we aimed to develop an intervention tailored specifically to the needs of this population using an Intervention Mapping protocol. First, a literature review and interviews with runaway adolescents and youth shelter workers were conducted to create a logic model of the problem. Second, the behavioral and environmental outcomes were set to adapt to stressful situations and enable families to become more resourceful in dealing with family adversity, based on the results of needs assessment. Performance objectives and changeable determinants were also created by reviewing the pertinent theories and studies. Third, theory- and evidence-based methods to influence changes in the determinants were identified. Fourth, we designed an eight-session family-based mental health program incorporating individual and family approaches for runaway adolescents. Fifth, we determined that mental health nurses at community mental health centers linked to youth shelters would serve as the program implementers. Finally, we planned a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of our program on improving runaway adolescents’ mental health status and perceived family functioning.
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Hald GM, Ciprić A, Strizzi JM, Sander S. "Divorce burnout" among recently divorced individuals. Stress Health 2020; 36:457-468. [PMID: 32141221 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, the concept of burnout has been applied to the workspace but recent research suggests its applicability to more general contexts such as the family sphere. The present study applies burnout to the divorce context and (a) proposes and statistically tests the Divorce Burnout Model (DBM), (b) investigates the contribution of sociodemographic variables and divorce characteristics to burnout scores, and (c) investigates the relationship between burnout scores and the number of sick days and days of absence from work. Using a cross-sectional design and a sample of 1,856 recently divorced Danish citizens, multigroup confirmatory factor analysis verified the DBM´s good fit to data. Using this model, for men, it was found that fewer previous divorces, former spouse initiation of divorce, not having a new partner and a higher degree of conflict significantly predicted higher levels of divorce burnout. For women, lower income, former spouse divorce initiation, not having a new partner, and a higher level of conflict significantly predicted higher levels of divorce burnout. Across gender, burnout scores were found to significantly predict number of sick days and days of absence from work in the past 3 months over and above sociodemographic variables, divorce related characteristics, and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert Martin Hald
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ana Ciprić
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jenna Marie Strizzi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Sander
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Mwachofi A, Imai S, Bell RA. Adverse childhood experiences and mental health in adulthood: Evidence from North Carolina. J Affect Disord 2020; 267:251-257. [PMID: 32217225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 1.4 million adults in North Carolina (NC) have mental illnesses. Many get no treatment because of mental health care provider shortages. Necessary prevention requires identification of covariates of mental illness. STUDY OBJECTIVE We tested the hypotheses: There is no difference in adulthood mental health of the ACE-affected and the unaffected; ACEs do not significantly predict adulthood mental health. METHODS ACEs studied were: living with a mentally ill person, an alcoholic, or drug abuser; witnessing violence; having divorced or unmarried parents; and being physically, mentally or sexually abused. We used data from 2012 and 2014 NC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We had 19,187 observations with about 13,900 including ACE data. We conducted t- and χ2 tests of mental health differences between ACE-affected and unaffected and regression analysis to determine mental health predictors. RESULTS ACE distribution was: 26.2% had parents or adults swearing at- or insulting them; 25% had divorced or unmarried parents; 22.6% lived with an alcoholic; 15.7% witnessed their parents beat each other; 13.8% lived with a mentally ill person; and 13.6% were hit or beaten by an adult in the home. Respondents also reported being touched sexually (9.4%); living with an adult who abused drugs (7.9%); and 4.1% were forced to have sex. The ACE-affected experienced significantly (p < 0.001) more days of poor mental health and had a higher likelihood of depression diagnosis than the unaffected. ACEs are statistically significant predictors of poor mental health in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Mwachofi
- Public Health Department, Brody School of Medicine, ECHI 115 Heart Drive, Room 2225, Greenville, NC 27834, United States.
| | - Satomi Imai
- Public Health Department, Brody School of Medicine, ECHI 115 Heart Drive, Room 2225, Greenville, NC 27834, United States.
| | - Ronny A Bell
- Department of Public Health, East Carolina University, 115 Heart Drive , Greenville, NC 27834, United States.
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Stannard S, Berrington A, Alwan N. Associations between birth order with mental wellbeing and psychological distress in midlife: Findings from the 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222184. [PMID: 31527876 PMCID: PMC6748419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research indicated that birth order was associated with physical health outcomes in adulthood. However, evidence on its association with mental health was lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate if birth order was associated with mental wellbeing and psychological distress at mid-life, stratified by gender, and taking into account confounding factors in childhood and adulthood. METHOD The sample consisted of 9,354 participants of the 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70). The Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), the Malaise Index and attending a doctor's consultation in the past year for a mental health issue at age forty-two were used to assess mental wellbeing and psychological distress in midlife. Birth order was ascertained via a parental questionnaire and referred to the numerical birth position of the participants. The associations between birth order, mental wellbeing and psychological distress were tested using linear and logistic regression adjusting for birth characteristics: smoking during pregnancy, maternal age, mother's marital status, father's employment, region of birth, parental years of education and parental social class, and factors at age 42: years of education, employment status and partnership status. Potential mediating variables including breastfeeding and birthweight at birth and parental separation and conduct disorder measured at age ten were also taken into account. RESULTS We find no evidence to support an association between birth order and midlife psychological distress or attending a doctor's consultation in both men and women. In unadjusted analysis, there was an association between birth order four and above and a reduced WEMWBS score of -0.79 (95% CI -1.57, -0.02) in men only. This association was attenuated after adjusting for birth characteristics and mediators at birth (0.86, 95% -1.78, 0.07) but was maintained once conduct disorder at age 10 was accounted for (-1.19, 95% CI -2.28, -0.09). However, this association was attenuated once again after adjusting for employment status, years in education and partnership status in adulthood (-1.04, 95% CI -2.11, 0.03). CONCLUSIONS In this study, birth order was not associated with psychological distress or having a mental health issue at midlife. Accounting for employment status, years of education and partnership status in adulthood attenuated the relationship between birth order and mental wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Stannard
- Department of Social Statistics and Demography, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- ESRC Centre for Population Change, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Ann Berrington
- Department of Social Statistics and Demography, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- ESRC Centre for Population Change, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nisreen Alwan
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
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