1
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Davidson J, Karadzhov D, Collins H, Brown A. Complexities of protecting children from violence during the COVID-19 pandemic: Providers' and policymakers' best practices, innovations and challenges in 12 countries. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 146:106480. [PMID: 37801758 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106480] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has put children at an increased risk of neglect, violence and other human rights violations. Despite growing evidence of its impact on child protective services, there has been a dearth of research from low- and middle-income countries. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional qualitative study explored service providers' and policymakers' views and experiences of children's protection, in real-time, in the last quarter of 2020. METHODS A smartphone app-based survey containing both open- and closed-ended questions was used. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Eighty-four respondents participated, including service providers, service managers and policymakers, mostly representing non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs) and governments across 12 countries (predominantly Kenya, South Africa and the Philippines). RESULTS Most respondents reported their sectors had experienced challenges in protecting children from violence - particularly delays in reporting abuse and pursuing justice, and reaching those living in poor and/or rural areas. Good practices and innovations in children's protection during the pandemic were reported in several domains: advocacy and signposting; justice; health care; education and awareness-raising; children's visibility; and virtual service delivery. Community resources and involvement were also highlighted as vital. The ineffectiveness of child protection laws, policies and organizational responses, however, hindered the implementation of effective practices. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated the complexities and interconnectivity of systems, processes and actors and their joint impact on children's protection and rights. Collectively, the findings reinforce the criticality of collaborative, urgent and child-centered responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Davidson
- Institute for Inspiring Children's Futures, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Dimitar Karadzhov
- Institute for Inspiring Children's Futures, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Hilllary Collins
- Research Associate, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Brown
- Children & Young People's Centre for Justice, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
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2
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Abu-Ras W, Ashraf AbuLaban A, Talat AlQaisi S, AlQaisi MTH, Decker E. Orphans in Syria and Iraq Juggling Balls: Wars, COVID-19, and the NGO's financial crisis. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2170010. [PMID: 36744740 PMCID: PMC9904298 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2170010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic's impact varies between and within nations, causing new forms of inequality. Refugee and orphan children in conflicted areas are more likely to suffer due to poverty, vulnerability, and limited access to essential services including reduction in donor funding. This qualitative study is the first to assess the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the financial crisis on Iraqi and Syrian orphaned children and their mothers. The Modified Grounded Theory was used for the preliminary analysis to expand the range of themes. This study has identified five major themes: financial crisis, low educational attainment, child labour, mental health issues, violence, and social problems. The impact of COVID-19 children and adolescents' mental health is of great concern. These multiple crises may significantly impact orphan children and adolescents' cognitive, mental health, and physical development. It is critical to address mental health issues during the current crisis and to plan for possible future pandemics and their intersecting outcomes. A Holistic approach requires providers to be aware of their clients' intersecting circumstances and needs using a range of lenses, including the person in the environment, family dynamics, culture, politics, and structural challenges. Offering food, medical supplies, and housing are considered basic needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wahiba Abu-Ras
- Adelphi School of Social Work, Garden City, NY, United States,CONTACT Wahiba Abu-Ras Adelphi School of Social Work, One South Avenue Garden City, Garden City, New York11530
| | | | | | | | - Eliza Decker
- MSW Candidate Adelphi School of Social Work, Garden City, NY, United States of America
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3
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Özmete E, Pak M. Family Functioning and Community Resilience During the COVID-19 Lockdown Period in Turkey. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 38:437-449. [PMID: 38324376 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2024.2315186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has left families with many adverse effects that can disrupt functioning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between family functioning and community resilience during the COVID-19 lockdown. An online survey was conducted with community-dwelling adult people (n= 411) based on quantitative descriptive-correlational research. According to the results, families show dysfunctional trends during the COVID-19 outbreak (%56), especially in affective involvement, problem-solving, and behavior control categories. Community resilience was positively associated with family functioning. Also, income dissatisfaction, use of social services, and social trust were determined as predictors of family functioning in the COVID-19 lockdown. Further research and social work practices in public health to address the family system as a whole should be evaluated and interventions aiming at community resilience should be designed to increase families' functioning during the pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Özmete
- Department of Social Work, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Melike Pak
- Department of Social Work, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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4
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Katz C, Glucklich T, Attrash-Najjar A, Jacobson M, Cohen N, Varela N, Priolo-Filho SR, Bérubé A, Chang OD, Collin-Vézina D, Fouché A, Haffejee S, Katz I, Maguire-Jack K, Massarweh N, O'Reilly M, Tiwari A, Truter E, de Andrade Vieira RV, Walker-Williams H, Zibetti MR, Werkele C. The global impact of COVID-19 on child protection professionals: A scoping review and thematic analysis. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023:106347. [PMID: 37479549 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic triggered new risks for child maltreatment (CM) and exacerbated existing challenges for families and children, elevating the importance of child protection professionals (CPPs) while also adding barriers to their work. During the pandemic, many CPPs experienced increased workloads, a disrupted work environment, and personal pandemic-related hardships. However, the scope of how COVID-19 impacted CPPs globally, as well as their adopted coping strategies, have not been well explored. OBJECTIVE This study addresses these gaps in the research by conducting an international scoping review to explore and analyze these topics. METHOD The scoping review was performed in six languages: English, Hebrew, Arabic, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, across 16 databases. Sixteen manuscripts were included in the final thematic analysis of this review. RESULTS Two main themes were identified: 1) the impact of COVID-19 on CPPs, and 2) the coping and adaptation strategies employed by CPPs during COVID-19. This review revealed and emphasized the importance of CPPs' resilience during COVID-19, underpinned by the theoretical framework of the social ecology of resilience. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the responsibility of social ecologies and organizational structures to create readiness for a rapid response in times of crisis as well as valuable evidence to inform how CPPs, children, and families may be better supported in the event of a future crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Chaim Levanon 30, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
| | - Talia Glucklich
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Chaim Levanon 30, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Afnan Attrash-Najjar
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Chaim Levanon 30, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ma'ayan Jacobson
- Haruv Institute, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Noa Cohen
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Chaim Levanon 30, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Natalia Varela
- Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Externado University, Calle 12 No. 1-17 Este, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Sidnei Rinaldo Priolo-Filho
- Laboratório de Pesquisa, Prevenção e Intervenção em Psicologia Forense - Universidade Tuiuti do Paraná, Brazil
| | - Annie Bérubé
- The Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Canada.
| | - Olivia D Chang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 S. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Delphine Collin-Vézina
- The Centre for Research on Children and Families, McGill University, Suite 106, Wilson Hall, 3506 University Street, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2A7, Canada.
| | - Ansie Fouché
- Department of Social Wellbeing, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; North-West University, Vanderbijlpark Campus, COMPRES Research Entity, Gauteng, South Africa.
| | - Sadiyya Haffejee
- Centre for Social Development in Africa, University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Ilan Katz
- Social Policy Research Centre (SPRC), University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Kathryn Maguire-Jack
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 S. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Nadia Massarweh
- The Al-Qasemi Academic College of Education, P.O. Box 124, Baqa-El-Gharbia 3010000, Israel
| | - Michelle O'Reilly
- School of Media, Communication, and Sociology, University of Leicester and Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, UK.
| | - Ashwini Tiwari
- The Institute of Public and Preventive Health, Augusta University, 1120 15th St, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
| | - Elmien Truter
- North-West University, Vanderbijlpark Campus, COMPRES Research Entity, Gauteng, South Africa.
| | | | - Hayley Walker-Williams
- North-West University, Vanderbijlpark Campus, COMPRES Research Entity, Gauteng, South Africa.
| | | | - Christine Werkele
- The Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W. - MIP 201A, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
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5
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The moderating role of Covid-19-related support on urban livelihood capitals: Evidence from suburban Accra. URBAN GOVERNANCE 2023. [PMCID: PMC10060801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ugj.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
In the Global South, the COVID-19 crisis has compelled varied efforts to quickly address the pandemic's impact on urban livelihoods. Families, friends as well as public, private, and civil society organizations have mobilized various resources to avert the pandemic's onslaught on the survival of the urban vulnerable. Indeed, there is a burgeoning ‘pandemic urban scholarship’ that shed insights on COVID-19 risks, local responses, and impacts on everyday urban life. Yet, it is unclear how many of these responses are affecting urban livelihoods. This paper thus investigates the impact of COVID-19 on urban livelihood capitals (financial, human, social, and physical) and analyses the moderating role of COVID-19-related support (from families, friends, government agencies, faith-based and non-governmental organizations) to address the pandemic's impact on these capitals. Drawing on a quantitative study in Adenta Municipality of the Greater Accra Region, Ghana, the study finds a negative association between COVID-19 impacts and all urban livelihood capitals. Crucially, COVID-19-related support only reduced the negative impact of the pandemic on financial capital, and not on the other forms of capital. The study suggests that building post-pandemic community resilience warrants the need to transition from the usual reactive, fragmented support to integrated, holistic, and contextually embedded long-term strategies that consider the multi-dimensionality of everyday urban life.
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6
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Libenstein J, Larivière‐Bastien D, Dupont D, Aubuchon O, Herba CM, Beauchamp MH. A light in the dark: How children make sense of
COVID
‐19. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY & APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/casp.2678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Libenstein
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Danaë Larivière‐Bastien
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Dominique Dupont
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Olivier Aubuchon
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Catherine M. Herba
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université du Québec à Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
| | - Miriam H. Beauchamp
- Sainte‐Justine Hospital Research Center (CR‐CHUSJ) Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology Université de Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada
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7
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Noreña Herrera C, Muñoz Echeverri IF, Velásquez Quintero P, Monsalve López JG, Guerra Sierra BE, Sánchez Gómez IC. [Public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in institutions for the protection of children and adolescents in two departments in ColombiaMedidas de saúde pública em instituições de proteção de crianças e adolescentes em dois departamentos da Colômbia durante a pandemia de COVID-19]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2022; 46:e216. [PMID: 36582619 PMCID: PMC9791459 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2022.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Analyze facilitating processes, obstacles, and effects of the implementation of non-pharmacological public health measures for the prevention of COVID-19 in child and adolescent protection centers in two departments (Antioquia and La Guajira) in Colombia during the period 2020-2021. Methods Mixed methods study with a convergent parallel design in 13 residential child/adolescent protection facilities in Colombia (11 in Antioquia and two in La Guajira). A questionnaire was given to 145 children and adolescents, and 23 interviews were held with persons responsible for the implementation of measures in the national family welfare system. Results The implemented non-pharmacological public health measures did not differ by department; the most complex to implement were physical distancing and restriction of family visits. Conclusions In centers for the protection of children and adolescents in Antioquia and La Guajira, non-pharmacological public health measures helped mitigate the spread of the virus in environments considered at-risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Noreña Herrera
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.,Camilo Noreña Herrera,
| | - Iván Felipe Muñoz Echeverri
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Paola Velásquez Quintero
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Jose Guillermo Monsalve López
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Blanca Elena Guerra Sierra
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Isabel Cristina Sánchez Gómez
- Grupo de Gestión y políticas en SaludFacultad Nacional de Salud PúblicaUniversidad de AntioquiaMedellínColombiaGrupo de Gestión y políticas en Salud, Facultad Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
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8
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Benzies KM, Perry R, Cope Williams J. Influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on executive skills in Canadians experiencing social vulnerability: A descriptive study. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e1853-e1861. [PMID: 34708472 PMCID: PMC8652764 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to describe executive skills in clients experiencing social vulnerability in the context of COVID-19 from the perspective of social service agency staff. COVID-19 has required transformational changes to livelihood and day-to-day living. Socially vulnerable individuals are likely to be disproportionally impacted because many have experienced serious early childhood adversity, which may compromise their executive skills in adulthood. Using a cross-sectional survey, we collected data between 05 May 2020 and 03 July 2020, for this mixed methods study of 53 staff in two agencies in western Canada serving clients experiencing social vulnerability. The first case of COVID-19 in this jurisdiction was identified 05 March 2020. Using investigator-designed survey items, we captured executive skills in five areas: (a) planning tasks of daily living, (b) managing time, (c) keeping track of information and appointments, (d) managing emotions, and (e) managing self-control. Staff reported their clients struggled with executive skills and these struggles increased during COVID-19, particularly in the areas of managing daily tasks and emotional regulation. COVID-19 restrictions overwhelmed clients with the decisions required to maintain health, employment, and childcare. With the loss of structure and routine, clients lost track of time and delayed completion of tasks, which further increased stress. Disrupted goals and uncertainty about the future contributed to hopelessness for clients who were trying to regain control over their lives, which made it difficult to manage emotions. Some clients acted more impulsively because of the added stressors, lack of routine and access to friends and extended family. A better understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on socially vulnerable clients will inform social service agencies about areas to focus programming to support their socially vulnerable clients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Perry
- CUPS (formerly Calgary Urban Project Society)CalgaryAlbertaCanada
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9
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Hanlon R, Kim J, Woo C, Day A, Vanderwill L, Dallimore E. An exploratory study of the impact of COVID-19 on foster parenting. CHILD & FAMILY SOCIAL WORK 2022; 27:371-380. [PMID: 35936834 PMCID: PMC9347573 DOI: 10.1111/cfs.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As the COVID-19 virus began to spread in the United States of America, states' child welfare administrators and policymakers responded differently. Some states implemented more restrictive policies, some less or did not require many restrictions (i.e., stay at home orders or masking in public spaces). Video-based online focus groups with foster parents in four states utilized a consensual qualitative approach to identify themes relating to foster parenting during COVID-19 and understand how policies related to COVID-19 restrictions affected their caregiving decisions. Themes that emerged included pathways to foster parenting pre-pandemic, the impact of COVID-19 on both foster parents, children in care, and foster parents' ability to understand the broader importance of their caregiving. While participants in all of the states reported similar experiences relating to the need for resources and support and the challenge of managing both work and remote education for their children, those in states with restrictive policies were more likely to report pandemic-specific concerns including a lack of agency communication or case progress, the mental health toll on foster children in their care and their concerns about accepting new placements. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Hanlon
- National Council For AdoptionAlexandriaVirginiaUSA
| | - JaeRan Kim
- School of Social Work and Criminal JusticeUniversity of Washington‐TacomaTacomaWashingtonUSA
| | - Cossette Woo
- Partners for Our ChildrenUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Angelique Day
- School of Social WorkUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Lori Vanderwill
- School of Social WorkUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Elise Dallimore
- Communication StudiesNortheastern UniversitySeattleWashingtonUSA
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10
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Vameghi M, Eftekhari MB, Falahat K, Forouzan AS. Iranian nongovernmental organizations' initiatives in COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2022; 11:225. [PMID: 36177435 PMCID: PMC9514240 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_595_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus crisis worldwide, including Iran, the need for corona prevention and treatment has become a national priority. With many businesses closed in the wake of COVID-19 and job losses and declining incomes, vulnerable individuals' and families' access to the minimum wage and healthcare facilities is falling, and their health is exposed to a great risk. In Iran, a significant number of vulnerable groups are supported by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This study is designed to understand the performance of NGOs after the onset of the COVID-19 crisis. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was carried out based on qualitative research between June and September 2020 in Tehran. This study was conducted using individual interviews with 33 managers and experts of 24 active NGOs providing services to vulnerable groups and a member of an NGO network. Data were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Two main themes of service initiatives were extracted: (a) service initiatives to protect the target population against COVID-19 infection and its aftermath and (b) management initiatives to retain staff, finance, and adapt the organization to crisis situations. Service initiatives included five categories of health service initiatives, livelihood, employment, education, and leisure initiatives, while organizational management initiatives include human resource management, financial management, and communication with organizations. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 breadth and its special features have set it apart from other crises and have led NGOs to work hard on several fronts to care for the most vulnerable people against the epidemic and its consequences and maintain the performance of their organizations. The unique role of cyberspace has made it one of the definitive pillars of the activities of NGOs, not only during the epidemic but also after its end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meroe Vameghi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Monir Baradaran Eftekhari
- Department of Research Development and Evaluation, Deputy for Research and Technology, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Katayoun Falahat
- Department of Research Development and Evaluation, Deputy for Research and Technology, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ameneh Setareh Forouzan
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Jenholt Nolbris M, Ragnarsson S, Brorsson AL, Garcia de Avila M, Forsner M, Kull I, Olinder AL, Mattson J, Nilsson S, Rullander AC, Rydström LL, Olaya-Contreras P, Berghammer M. Young children's voices in an unlocked Sweden during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scand J Public Health 2022; 50:693-702. [PMID: 35799462 PMCID: PMC9361420 DOI: 10.1177/14034948221108250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Aims: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sweden was one of the few countries that
rejected lockdowns in favour of recommendations for restrictions, including
careful hand hygiene and social distancing. Preschools and primary schools
remained open. Several studies have shown negative impacts of the pandemic
on children, particularly high levels of anxiety. The study aim was to
explore how Swedish school-aged children aged 6–14 years, experienced the
COVID-19 pandemic and their perceived anxiety. Methods: In total, 774 children aged 6–14 years and their guardians answered an online
questionnaire containing 24 questions, along with two instruments measuring
anxiety: the Children’s Anxiety Questionnaire and the Numerical Rating
Scale. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was used for analysing the
quantitative and qualitative data. Each data source was first analysed
separately, followed by a merged interpretative analysis. Results: The results showed generally low levels of anxiety, with no significant sex
differences. Children who refrained from normal social activities or group
activities (n=377) had significantly higher levels of
anxiety. Most of the children were able to appreciate the bright side of
life, despite the social distancing and refraining from activities, which
prevented them from meeting and hugging their loved ones. Conclusions: These Swedish children generally experienced low levels of anxiety,
except those who refrained from social activities. Life was nonetheless
mostly experienced as normal, largely because schools remained open.
Keeping life as normal as possible could be one important factor in
preventing higher anxiety and depression levels in children during a
pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jenholt Nolbris
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.,The Queen Silivia Children's Hospital Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sweden
| | - S Ragnarsson
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Sweden.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - A-L Brorsson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | | | - M Forsner
- Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Sweden.,Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - I Kull
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,Sachs' Children and Youth's Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Sweden
| | - A L Olinder
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,Sachs' Children and Youth's Hospital, Södersjukhuset, Sweden
| | - J Mattson
- Department of Health Science, The Swedish Red Cross University College, Sweden.,Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - S Nilsson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - L-L Rydström
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - P Olaya-Contreras
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.,Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - M Berghammer
- The Queen Silivia Children's Hospital Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sweden.,Department of Health Sciences, University West, Sweden
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Das A, Nanda V, Lauden SM, Behrmann A, González de Rivas MDR, Kurbasic M, Okolo A, Oyerinde K, Smith S, Vides M, Jacobs T, Umoren R. COVID-19 Pandemic Response and Adaptations by International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH) Projects in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Glob Pediatr Health 2022; 9:2333794X221097240. [PMID: 35592791 PMCID: PMC9112297 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x221097240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The health personnel in low/low and middle-income
countries have faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The
International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH) grants support locally
initiated projects in those countries. The aim of this study was to highlight
how the challenges countered by grant project teams continuing their projects
and demonstrating their skills to adapt to an increasingly difficult
environment. Methods. This was a mixed methodology study for
which data were obtained from the evaluation of annual reports submitted by the
projects. The annual reports review comprised of answers to questions on whether
project objectives were met, problems or barriers encountered, and reviewer
feedback in the form of specific concerns or recommendations. The reports were
analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Results. A
total of 34 (92%) of annual reports were included with 17 (94%) received in 2020
and 17 (89%) in 2021. Compared to 2020, in 2021 the projects that indicated
meeting objectives increased by more than half from 29% to 58%. Over one third
of the projects encountered barriers in both years. The percentage of projects
with major concerns decreased by almost 2/3 in 2021 while unexpected expenses
decreased by 1/3. Four themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: Concerns
over COVID-19, Barriers to accomplishing project goals, Positivity around
adaptations, and Despair over lack of ability to overcome challenges.
Conclusions. ICATCH funded projects demonstrated resiliency
and adaptations to meet program objectives despite the challenges posed by the
COVID-19 pandemic demonstrating greater success in 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirudha Das
- Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Vishakha Nanda
- John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Ann Behrmann
- American Academy of Pediatrics' International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH) Grants Program, Itasca, IL, USA.,University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Sherri Smith
- American Academy of Pediatrics' International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH) Grants Program, Itasca, IL, USA
| | | | - Troy Jacobs
- George Washington University and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rachel Umoren
- American Academy of Pediatrics' International Community Access to Child Health (ICATCH) Grants Program, Itasca, IL, USA.,University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
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13
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Sayarifard A, Nazari M, Rajabi F, Ghadirian L, Sajadi HS. Identifying the non-governmental organizations' activities and challenges in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:704. [PMID: 35399049 PMCID: PMC8994816 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13080-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The spread and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic have been to such an extent that to shape an effective, collective response, governments need the participation of society and the cooperation of a wide range of civil society organizations and institutions. The objective of this study was to identify the activities of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in response to the covid-19 pandemic in Iran and the challenges they confronted. Methods We conducted a qualitative analysis based on twenty-two individual, virtual, and semi-structured interviews. Interviewees were selected through purposeful and snowball sampling. All interviews were performed with active health-related NGO representatives willing to participate in the study and continued until data saturation. Data analysis was performed using qualitative content analysis. Results The activities and challenges raised by NGO representatives were identified in 6 main categories, including the need for the participation of NGOs in the fight against pandemics, response to the COVID-19 crisis in the society, challenges in providing services to the target group in the COVID-19 crisis, NGOs challenges in interacting with governmental and non-governmental institutions, information sources used by NGOs in the COVID-19 crisis and strategies to support NGOs in their efforts. Conclusion Considering the crucial challenges for their participation, such as the NGO access to the target groups, lack of communication network, and constructive interaction between government institutions and the NGOs, it is recommended to increase the capacity of these institutions and intervene to establish a constructive and long-term relationship with the government.
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14
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Vanegas SB, Dueñas AD, Kunze M, Xu Y. Adapting
parent‐focused
interventions for diverse caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities: Lessons learned during global crises. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana D. Dueñas
- College of Education and Human Services Lehigh University Bethlehem Pennsylvania USA
| | - Megan Kunze
- Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences and Center for Brain Injury Research and Training University of Oregon Eugene Oregon USA
| | - Yue Xu
- Department of Health Sciences Education University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford Rockford Illinois USA
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15
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Simons A, Noordegraaf M, Van Regenmortel T. 'When it comes to relational trauma, you need people at the table': Therapist experiences of online therapy for families with a prior disclosure of sibling sexual abuse during Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THERAPY 2022; 44:JOFT12397. [PMID: 35602926 PMCID: PMC9111092 DOI: 10.1111/1467-6427.12397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to contribute to the evaluation of online therapy during Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns, by exploring family therapists' experiences of therapy for twelve Sibling Sexual Abuse (SSA) families in the Netherlands. Seven transcripts of interviews with highly specialised Dutch family therapists were analysed using thematic analysis (TA). Two main findings emerged from this study. First, the Dutch therapists reported no acute worries about their clients' sexual safety during the pandemic lockdowns. Nonetheless, the switch to online therapy for the SSA families created concern regarding victim safety in speaking out freely at home. Second, while the sudden switch to online therapy enabled SSA therapists to stay connected with their SSA families, therapists experienced a decline in therapy quality and in their own well-being. In the therapists' experience, it was almost impossible to conduct their most fundamental interventions online, such as intervening in family relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aletta Simons
- Ede Christian University of Applied Sciences, Social WorkEdethe Netherlands
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, TranzoTilburg UniversityTilburgthe Netherlands
| | | | - Tine Van Regenmortel
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, TranzoTilburg UniversityTilburgthe Netherlands
- Faculty of Social SciencesHIVA, University of LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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16
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Heerman WJ, Gross R, Lampkin J, Nmoh A, Eatwell S, Delamater AM, Sanders L, Rothman RL, Yin HS, Perrin EM, Flower KB. How COVID-19 impacted child and family health and healthcare: a mixed-methods study incorporating family voices. Transl Behav Med 2022; 12:466-479. [PMID: 35192704 PMCID: PMC8903445 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To describe how social disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic impacted child access to healthcare and child health behaviors in 2020. We used mixed-methods to conduct surveys and in-depth interviews with English- and Spanish-speaking parents of young children from five geographic regions in the USA. Participants completed the COVID-19 Exposure and Family Impact Survey (CEFIS). Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted between August and October 2020. Of the 72 parents interviewed, 45.8% of participants were Hispanic, 20.8% Black (non-Hispanic), and 19.4% White (non-Hispanic). On the CEFIS, the average (SD) number of social/family disruptions reported was 10.5 (3.8) out of 25. Qualitative analysis revealed multiple levels of themes that influenced accessing healthcare during the pandemic, including two broad contextual themes: (a) lack of trustworthiness of medical system/governmental organizations, and (b) uncertainty due to lack of consistency across multiple sources of information. This context influenced two themes that shaped the social and emotional environments in which participants accessed healthcare: (a) fear and anxiety and (b) social isolation. However, the pandemic also had some positive impacts on families: over 80% indicated that the pandemic made it "a lot" or "a little" better to care for their new infants. Social and family disruptions due to COVID-19 were common. These disruptions contributed to social isolation and fear, and adversely impacted multiple aspects of child and family health and access to healthcare. Some parents of infants reported improvements in specific health domains such as parenting, possibly due to spending more time together.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Heerman
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rachel Gross
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, New York, NY, USA
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacarra Lampkin
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ashley Nmoh
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sagen Eatwell
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Alan M Delamater
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Lee Sanders
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Russell L Rothman
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Institute of Medicine and Public Health, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - H Shonna Yin
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, New York, NY, USA
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eliana M Perrin
- Johns Hopkins University, Department of Pediatrics, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kori B Flower
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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17
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Copson R, Murphy AM, Cook L, Neil E, Sorensen P. Relationship-based practice and digital technology in child and family social work: Learning from practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. DEVELOPMENTAL CHILD WELFARE 2022; 4:3-19. [PMID: 38603085 PMCID: PMC8891247 DOI: 10.1177/25161032221079325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Vital services provided by social workers to children in care or on the edge of care were largely delivered "online" during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper explores the potential impact of these changes on vulnerable children and their families. Relationship-based practice is integral to social work and the shift to digital communication during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to accelerated practice changes and implications for relationship building both with and between service users. Going forward, social workers and other professionals are likely to move to an increasingly hybrid model of communication, combining both digital and face-to-face methods. This article identifies the impact of digital communication on relationships in professional practice, drawing on three studies of digital communication in the UK carried out at the University of East Anglia. The first considered how child protection social workers responded to the challenges of COVID-19, the second looked at how children in care were keeping in touch with their birth families and the third focused on the approaches being taken to moving children from foster care to adoptive families. Five themes related to relationships were identified across all three studies: the significance of the age and developmental stage of the child; the frequency of contact and communication; digital literacy/exclusion; the impact of the lack of sensory experience; and the importance of the relationship history. The article concludes with implications for utilising digital methods in building and maintaining relationships in practice and highlights the need to consider both the inner and outer worlds of those involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Copson
- School of Social Work, University of East Anglia, UK
| | - Anne M Murphy
- School of Social Work, University of East Anglia, UK
| | - Laura Cook
- School of Social Work, University of East Anglia, UK
| | - Elsbeth Neil
- School of Social Work, University of East Anglia, UK
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18
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Whitt-Woosley A, Sprang G, Eslinger J. Foster care during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative analysis of caregiver and professional experiences. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 124:105444. [PMID: 34972016 PMCID: PMC8669913 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research is needed to facilitate better understanding of how different groups have been impacted by COVID-19, especially those in already strained service systems such as foster care. These inquiries will support further response, recovery and preparedness efforts. OBJECTIVE This qualitative study addressed how professionals and caregivers in foster care described being affected by COVID-19 in order to support future research and planning for foster care systems in this pandemic context. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A sample of foster parents and foster care professionals (N = 357) from a mostly rural, southeastern state in the U.S. participated in the study. METHODS Qualitative analysis was conducted of 357 open-ended responses regarding the impact of COVID-19 from a survey distributed in August 2020. RESULTS The coding process resulted in the identification of 15 distinct themes: Isolation & Loss of Social Support, Work Changes/Stressors, School Issues, Childcare Issues, No Impact/Positive Changes, Financial Problems, Fear of Contagion, Negative Child Welfare Impacts, Mental Health Problems/Stress, Loss of Faith/Trust & Societal Frustrations, Health & Mental Healthcare Access Issues, PPE & Testing Issues, Grief & Loss, and Marital Problems. Secondary impacts rather than direct physiologic effects of the virus were primarily reported. CONCLUSIONS This study underscores the various challenges facing foster care systems, and how the pandemic context is exacerbating many of these issues. Further research is needed to ensure the implementation of adequately complex and nuanced responses that target needs and avoid creating further problems for foster care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne Whitt-Woosley
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine - Department of Psychiatry, United States of America.
| | - Ginny Sprang
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine - Department of Psychiatry, United States of America
| | - Jessica Eslinger
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine - Department of Psychiatry, United States of America
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19
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Vanegas SB, Dueñas AD, Kunze M, Xu Y. Adapting parent-focused interventions for diverse caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities: Lessons learned during global crises. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2022; na:1-13. [PMID: 35919414 PMCID: PMC9340799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Parent-focused interventions have been designed to provide training and support to caregivers who are essential in achieving positive outcomes for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In 2020, significant crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and continued racial tensions, profoundly impacted the livelihood of children with IDD and their families. Many ongoing efforts to address disparities among this population were halted temporarily and required further adaptations. Researchers adapted interventions and support to address the disparities impacting children with IDD and their families with limited guidance. We provide a descriptive case analysis of four parent-focused interventions that responded to the global crises to continue serving children with IDD and their families. The four distinct programs were based on applied behavior analysis and naturalistic, developmental-behavioral paradigms that were culturally adapted for families of young children with IDD from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. We present the qualitative reports on the challenges and benefits that arose with adapting the four parent-focused interventions for telehealth implementation. We focused specifically on adaptations made in recruitment and retention, instrumentation and measurement, research staff training, and intervention delivery. We synthesize our experience with challenges and solutions in adapting parent-focused interventions for racially/ethnically and socioeconomically diverse children with IDD and their families. We conclude with recommendations for researchers and practitioners on methods for adapting parent-focused interventions to address the significant health disparities that impact racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse children with IDD and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra B. Vanegas
- School of Social Work, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA
| | - Ana D. Dueñas
- College of Education and Human Services, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Megan Kunze
- Department of Special Education and Clinical Sciences and Center for Brain Injury Research and Training, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
| | - Yue Xu
- Department of Health Sciences Education, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford, Rockford, Illinois, USA
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20
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Santos MRC, Laureano RMS. COVID-19-Related Studies of Nonprofit Management: A Critical Review and Research Agenda. VOLUNTAS : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF VOLUNTARY AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 2021; 33:936-951. [PMID: 34866809 PMCID: PMC8629598 DOI: 10.1007/s11266-021-00432-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED During crises such as the present coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, nonprofits play a key role in ensuring support to improve the most vulnerable individuals' health, social, and economic conditions. One year into the COVID-19 pandemic, an extensive automated literature analysis was conducted of 154 academic articles on nonprofit management during the pandemic-all of which were published in 2020. This study sought to identify and systematize academics' contributions to knowledge about the crisis's impact on the nonprofit sector and to ascertain the most urgent directions for future research. The results provide policymakers, nonprofit practitioners, and scholars an overview of the themes addressed and highlight the important assistance academic researchers provide to nonprofits dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11266-021-00432-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia R. C. Santos
- ESCE, Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
- Information Sciences and Technologies and Architecture Research Center (ISTAR-IUL), Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Raul M. S. Laureano
- Information Sciences and Technologies and Architecture Research Center (ISTAR-IUL), Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
- Business Research Unit (BRU-IUL), Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
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21
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Montserrat C, Garcia-Molsosa M, Llosada-Gistau J, Sitjes-Figueras R. The views of children in residential care on the COVID-19 lockdown: Implications for and their well-being and psychosocial intervention. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 120:105182. [PMID: 34237634 PMCID: PMC8593835 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent international research has warned of the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on vulnerable children. However, little is known regarding the in-care population. OBJECTIVE To find out how children in residential care perceived the influence of the COVID-19 lockdown in their everyday life, relationships and subjective well-being. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING 856 children from 10 to 17 years old (Mage = 15.5, males = 71.2%, females = 28.8%) living in residential centres in Catalonia. METHODS Cross-sectional study. Children responded to an on-line questionnaire administered between June and July 2020. Bivariate analysis and multiple linear regression were used comparing the answers by sex. RESULTS Better relationships with caregivers (β = 9.156, [4.089-14.22], r2 = 0.244, p < .01) and having a person of trust (ß = 4.588, [2.041-7.134], r2 = 0.244, p < .01) were found to be relevant for children's subjective well-being. For girls, improving their grades (β = 14.86, [8.560-21.15], r2 = 0.234, p < .01) were relevant while boys' subjective well-being was significantly affected by an increase in use of social networks (β = 8.917, [2.733-15.10], r2 = 0.234, p < .01). CONCLUSIONS A gender perspective is needed to help girls in situations of vulnerability. We should continue to listen to children's opinions, giving them the opportunity to participate in improving the children's home and its immediate environment and ensuring they have access to stable adult role models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carme Montserrat
- Universitat de Girona, Plaça Sant Domènec 9, 17004 Girona, Spain.
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22
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Bhatia A, Fabbri C, Cerna-Turoff I, Turner E, Lokot M, Warria A, Tuladhar S, Tanton C, Knight L, Lees S, Cislaghi B, Bhabha J, Peterman A, Guedes A, Devries K. Violence against children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bull World Health Organ 2021; 99:730-738. [PMID: 34621091 PMCID: PMC8477433 DOI: 10.2471/blt.20.283051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected children's risk of violence in their homes, communities and online, and has compromised the ability of child protection systems to promptly detect and respond to cases of violence. However, the need to strengthen violence prevention and response services has received insufficient attention in national and global pandemic response and mitigation strategies. In this paper, we summarize the growing body of evidence on the links between the pandemic and violence against children. Drawing on the World Health Organization's INSPIRE framework to end violence against children, we illustrate how the pandemic is affecting prevention and response efforts. For each of the seven INSPIRE strategies we identify how responses to the pandemic have changed children's risk of violence. We offer ideas for how governments, policy-makers, and international and civil society organizations can address violence in the context of a protracted COVID-19 crisis. We conclude by highlighting how the current pandemic offers opportunities to improve existing child protection systems to address violence against children. We suggest enhanced multisectoral coordination across the health, education, law enforcement, housing, child and social protection sectors. Actions need to prioritize the primary prevention of violence and promote the central role of children and adolescents in decision-making and programme design processes. Finally, we stress the continued need for better data and evidence to inform violence prevention and response strategies that can be effective during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amiya Bhatia
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Camilla Fabbri
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Ilan Cerna-Turoff
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Ellen Turner
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Michelle Lokot
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Ajwang Warria
- Department of Social Work, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Clare Tanton
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Louise Knight
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Shelley Lees
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Beniamino Cislaghi
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Jaqueline Bhabha
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, FXB Center for Health and Human Rights, Cambridge, United States of America (USA)
| | - Amber Peterman
- Department of Public Policy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | | | - Karen Devries
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9SH, England
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23
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Cappa C, Jijon I. COVID-19 and violence against children: A review of early studies. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 116:105053. [PMID: 33965215 PMCID: PMC9754317 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers across the globe have attempted to understand how the health and socioeconomic crisis brought about by the coronavirus is affecting children's exposure to violence. Since containment measures have disrupted many data collection and research efforts, studies have had to rely on existing data or design new approaches to gathering relevant information. OBJECTIVE This article reviews the literature that has been produced on children's exposure to violence during the pandemic to understand emerging patterns and critically appraise methodologies to help inform the design of future studies. The article concludes with recommendations for future research. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING The study entailed a search of working papers, technical reports, and journal articles. METHODS The search used a combination of search terms to identify relevant articles and reports published between March 1 and December 31, 2020. The sources were assessed according to scope and study design. RESULTS The review identified 48 recent working papers, technical reports, and journal articles on the impact of COVID-19 on violence against children. In terms of scope and methods, the review led to three main findings: 1) Studies have focused on physical or psychological violence at home and less attention has been paid to other forms of violence against children, 2) most studies have relied on administrative records, while other data sources, such as surveys or big data, were less commonly employed, and 3) different definitions and study designs were used to gather data directly, resulting in findings that are hardly generalizable. With respect to children's experience of violence, the review led to four main findings: 1) Studies found a decrease in police reports and referrals to child protective services, 2) mixed results were found with respect to the number of calls to police or domestic violence helplines, 3) articles showed an increase in child abuse-related injuries treated in hospitals, and 4) surveys reported an increase in family violence. CONCLUSIONS This review underscores the persistent challenges affecting the availability and quality of data on violence against children, including the absence of standards for measuring this sensitive issue as well as the limited availability of baseline data. Future research on COVID-19 and violence against children should address some of the gaps identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cappa
- UNICEF, Data and Analytics Section, 3 UN Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA.
| | - Isabel Jijon
- UNICEF, Data and Analytics Section, 3 UN Plaza, New York, NY 10017, USA.
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24
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Tesson S, Swinsburg D, Kasparian NA. Maintaining Momentum in Infant Mental Health Research During COVID-19: Adapting Observational Assessments. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:254-263. [PMID: 33738487 PMCID: PMC7989424 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the developing parent-infant relationship is a priority, especially for medically-fragile infants and their caregivers who face distinct challenges and stressors. Observational assessments can provide important insights into parent-child behaviors and relational risk; however, stay-at-home directives and physical distancing measures associated with COVID-19 have significantly limited opportunities for in-person observational parent-infant assessment. To maintain momentum in our research program during the pandemic, we rapidly pivoted to remote, technology-assisted parent-infant observational assessments. In this commentary, we offer a series of strategies and recommendations to assist researchers in adapting observational parent-infant paradigms. We also discuss the benefits, challenges, and limitations of distance-delivered assessments, and offer considerations for clinical service provision and future research during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. .
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Tesson
- Heart Centre for Children, The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney
| | - Dianne Swinsburg
- Heart Centre for Children, The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, The University of New South Wales
| | - Nadine A Kasparian
- Heart Centre for Children, The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
- Cincinnati Children’s Center for Heart Disease and Mental Health, Heart Institute and the Division of Behavioral Medicine & Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
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de la Fuente J, Kauffman DF, Dempsy MS, Kauffman Y. Analysis and Psychoeducational Implications of the Behavior Factor During the COVID-19 Emergency. Front Psychol 2021; 12:613881. [PMID: 33664694 PMCID: PMC7921697 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.613881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This theoretical analysis seeks to contribute to three objectives within the context of the proposed Frontiers Research Topic: (1) delimit two levels of analysis in the present pandemic situation: medicine-epidemiology and behavioral psychology, still under-addressed. While medicine has its essential role on the biological side, psychology has a comparable role on the behavioral side. (2) Analyze the importance of behavioral-educational factors in the pandemic situation, using a precise theoretical model from educational psychology for this analysis. (3) Propose preventive, psychoeducational intervention strategies based on the previous analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús de la Fuente
- School of Education and Psychology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- School of Psychology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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Molnar BE, Scoglio AAJ, Beardslee WR. Community-Level Prevention of Childhood Maltreatment: Next Steps in a World with COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL ON CHILD MALTREATMENT : RESEARCH, POLICY AND PRACTICE 2021; 3:467-481. [PMID: 33426476 PMCID: PMC7786316 DOI: 10.1007/s42448-020-00064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Maltreatment of children continues to be a major public health concern, with high social, economic and health burdens. Rates vary by a number of factors that can be categorized into different levels of the social ecology. Research and theory in this field point to the importance of community-level factors that can contribute to either risk or prevention of child maltreatment. The COVID-19 pandemic context creates additional risks and concerns related to child maltreatment and exacerbates risk factors that existed before: e.g., families and communities are in much worsened states of poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity; losses and grief are affecting mental health; and limitations and safety concerns are affecting in-person child protection work and more. Central to recovery from this pandemic will be the mobilization of community-level resources and the building back up of the social fabric that can support vulnerable children and caregivers. Key to this mobilization will be a better intersectional understanding of structural inequities in the child welfare system and in our communities. Efforts to dismantle structural biases and discrimination are critical to provide safety and support for families and vital for effective child maltreatment prevention. In this context, we discuss the state of the science of community-level prevention of childhood maltreatment, highlighting evidence-based community-level prevention programs and how these types of efforts may be impacted by the current COVID-19 global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth E. Molnar
- Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, M/S INV 314, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Arielle A. J. Scoglio
- Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, M/S INV 314, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - William R. Beardslee
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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Whitley J, Beauchamp MH, Brown C. The impact of COVID-19 on the learning and achievement of vulnerable Canadian children and youth. Facets (Ott) 2021. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many children and youth in Canada are identified as vulnerable due to educational, environmental, and social factors. They are more likely to be negatively affected by events that cause significant upheaval in daily life. The changes imposed by COVID-19, such as physical distancing, school closures, and reductions in community-based services all have the potential to weaken the systems of support necessary for these children to learn and develop. Existing inequities in educational outcomes experienced by vulnerable children prior to the pandemic have been greatly exacerbated as cracks in our support structures are revealed. Many children and youth have experienced disengagement, chronic attendance problems, declines in academic achievement, and decreased credit attainment during the pandemic, with the impact far deeper for those already at-risk. This chapter examines what is known to date regarding the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable children and youth and provides recommendations to guide postpandemic planning. Vulnerable children, youth, and their families require access to reliable high-speed internet, effective and inclusive learning spaces, and a range of coordinated social services. All stakeholders need to develop and fund initiatives that address these critical areas to ensure that educational opportunities for all children and youth can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jess Whitley
- Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa, 145 Jean-Jacques-Lussier, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- Royal Society of Canada, Working Group on Children and Schools
| | - Miriam H. Beauchamp
- Royal Society of Canada, Working Group on Children and Schools
- University of Montreal & CHU Sainte-Justine Hospital, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Curtis Brown
- Royal Society of Canada, Working Group on Children and Schools
- South Slave Divisional Education Council, Fort Smith, NT X0E 0P0, Canada
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Protection of Children in Difficulty in China during the COVID-19 Pandemic. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su13010279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the resilience of the Chinese child protection system in responding to the special needs of children in difficulty under the specific circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study applied qualitative document analysis of child protection administrative documents, in-depth interviews with 13 child protection professionals, and an in-depth case study of 14 children living in difficulty, complemented by relevant information available in the media. The results indicate that there are good policies in China’s child protection services but the organizational and functional fragmentation complicates implementation, suggesting a need for the development of bottom-up practices. The essential conclusion supported by these results is that the child protection system should be regarded and developed as a systematic project combining the legal, policymaking, and professional systems of child welfare services as well as governmental and non-governmental forces. As the COVID-19 pandemic has raised awareness of the need to develop the field of child protection holistically as an integrated system in terms of social sustainability in China, an international literature-based comparison indicates that the pandemic has also raised similar political awareness in other countries.
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Acute-on-chronic stress in the time of COVID-19: assessment considerations for vulnerable youth populations. Pediatr Res 2020; 88:827-828. [PMID: 32942292 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01166-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Wilke NG, Howard AH, Goldman P. Rapid return of children in residential care to family as a result of COVID-19: Scope, challenges, and recommendations. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 110:104712. [PMID: 32921445 PMCID: PMC7473257 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some governments have mandated that residential care providers rapidly return children and youth to family. OBJECTIVE The goal of the present study was to better understand the scope and characteristics of rapid return, and to provide data-informed recommendations for service providers working with this population. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Representatives from 67 non-government organizations (NGOs) providing residential care that were government-mandated to rapidly return children and youth to family completed a brief online survey. They collectively serve 12,494 children in 14 nations. METHODS Using a mixed methods design, results examined 1) characteristics of the rapid return mandate, 2) preparation received by children and families, 3) support services provided since the return, and 4) primary concerns for children and families. RESULTS Data revealed that rapid return was characterized by compressed timelines that did not allow for adequate child and family assessment and preparation. However, all respondents indicated they believed at least some families would be able to remain intact safely with appropriate support. Primary concerns for children and families related to unresolved antecedents to separation, lack of economic capacity, limited monitoring, and lack of access to education. CONCLUSIONS Based on the findings, 9 recommendations were made for service providers working with children and families that have been rapidly reunified as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Philip Goldman
- Maestral International, Suite 2850, 150 South Fifth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA.
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Katz C, Fallon B. Protecting children from maltreatment during COVID-19. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 110:104753. [PMID: 32981712 PMCID: PMC7500875 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Pereda N, Díaz-Faes DA. Family violence against children in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic: a review of current perspectives and risk factors. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2020; 14:40. [PMID: 33088340 PMCID: PMC7573863 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-020-00347-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The situation of crisis produced by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses major challenges to societies all over the world. While efforts to contain the virus are vital to protect global health, these same efforts are exposing children and adolescents to an increased risk of family violence. Various criminological theories explain the causes of this new danger. The social isolation required by the measures taken in the different countries, the impact on jobs, the economic instability, high levels of tension and fear of the virus, and new forms of relationships have all increased levels of stress in the most vulnerable families and, therefore, the risk of violence. In addition, mandatory lockdowns imposed to curb the spread of the disease have trapped children in their homes, isolating them from the people and the resources that could help them. In general, the restrictive measures imposed in many countries have not been accompanied by an analysis of the access to the resources needed to reduce this risk. It is necessary to take urgent measures to intervene in these high-risk contexts so that children and adolescents can develop and prosper in a society which is likely to undergo profound changes, but in which the defense of their rights and protection must remain a major priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemí Pereda
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Facultat de Psicologia,, Universitat de Barcelona, Passeig Vall d’Hebron, 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego A. Díaz-Faes
- Grup de Recerca en Victimització Infantil i Adolescent (GReVIA), Facultat de Psicologia,, Universitat de Barcelona, Passeig Vall d’Hebron, 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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