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Penna AL, de Aquino CM, Pinheiro MSN, do Nascimento RLF, Farias-Antúnez S, Araújo DABS, Mita C, Machado MMT, Castro MC. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices: a global scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:388. [PMID: 36823592 PMCID: PMC9950022 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), generating stark economic and social repercussions that directly or indirectly affected families' wellbeing and health status. AIMS This review aims at mapping the existing evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices, worldwide, to identify evidence gaps and better inform future delivery of care and health policy measures. METHODS Following the protocol defined by PRISMA-ScR, this scoping review has searched for relevant studies published between January 2020 and June 2021, selecting evidence sources based on pre-established criteria. From a total of 2,308 articles, data were extracted from 537 publications from 35 countries on all three health domains. RESULTS The combined stressors brought forth by the pandemic have exerted a heavy burden on the mental health of mothers and the development of young children, partly mediated by its impact on parental practices. CONCLUSIONS Despite remaining gaps, we have identified sufficient evidence pointing to an urgent need for more concerted global research efforts and rapid policy responses to timely address severe and pervasive negative impacts to the mental health of mothers and children at a key developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Penna
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
| | - Camila Machado de Aquino
- grid.8395.70000 0001 2160 0329Department of Community Health, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - Simone Farias-Antúnez
- grid.411237.20000 0001 2188 7235Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Brazil
| | | | - Carol Mita
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XCountway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | - Marcia C. Castro
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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Asaoka H, Okamura S, Baba C, Fujimoto N, Ishizuka Y, Takahashi T. Influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with autism spectrum disorder and their mothers in Japan. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2023; 8:23969415231212347. [PMID: 37954442 PMCID: PMC10637136 DOI: 10.1177/23969415231212347] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Background and aims Research on the psychological impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has highlighted its negative and positive effects on children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. However, little is known about the neutral effects that remain the same, even in particular circumstances, and how children with autism spectrum disorder and their parents perceive each other. We explored how children with autism spectrum disorder and their mothers perceived and experienced the pandemic in Japan. Methods A mixed-methods design was employed. Thirteen children with autism spectrum disorder and 12 mothers participated. Data were collected through online semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Similarities and differences in perceptions were compared. Results The results revealed six broad themes and 27 categories. Regarding neutral effects, some mothers reported no substantial impact because there were no changes in their jobs or other dramatic life changes. In addition, some children were not affected because they had had no social contact before the pandemic or because their lives had not changed dramatically. Regarding the perceptions of children/mothers, most expressed that they/their children enjoyed spending time with their families. At home, mothers made various efforts to interact with their children. However, mothers and children differed in their perceptions, such as regarding the emergence of anxiety about conducting school events and the resolution of study-related concerns. Conclusions There were negative, neutral, and positive effects on both children with autism spectrum disorder and their mothers; specifically, they were striving to move forward to overcome the problems posed by the pandemic. Both parties tapped into their resilience by enhancing family interactions, such as cooking together or discussing children's interests. Implications These findings have important implications for developing more creative solutions to the challenges of coping and resilience in future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Asaoka
- Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shoji Okamura
- Department of Special Needs Education, Hyogo University of Teacher Education, Kato, Japan
| | - Chitose Baba
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Natsumi Fujimoto
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yuka Ishizuka
- Faculty of Human and Cultural Sciences, Sakushin Gakuin University, Utsunomiya, Japan
| | - Tomoya Takahashi
- Research Team for Social Participation and Community Health, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Itabashi, Japan
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Ozsivadjian A, Milner V, Pickard H, Hollocks MJ, Gaigg SB, Colvert E, Happé F, Magiati I. Autistic and non-autistic young people's and caregivers' perspectives on COVID-19-related schooling changes and their impact on emotional well-being: An opportunity for change? AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022:13623613221140759. [PMID: 36519246 PMCID: PMC9760516 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221140759] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Autistic young people experience poorer mental health and well-being compared to their non-autistic peers. Navigating the complex social, academic, procedural and sensory aspects of school may be particularly challenging for autistic young people and contribute to poorer mental well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented school changes and provided a unique opportunity to gather caregiver's and young people's perspectives on the impact of school and pandemic-related school changes on the well-being of both autistic and non-autistic young people. We asked for the views of caregivers and young people aged 11-18 years gathered across three timepoints between May and December 2020. Their responses revealed both benefits and challenges associated with school changes. Insights into possible lessons from the pandemic and recommendations for more flexible, individualised and strengths-based educational practices are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Matthew J Hollocks
- King's College London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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Currie G, Finlay B, Seth A, Roth C, Elsabbagh M, Hudon A, Hunt M, Jodoin S, Lach L, Lencucha R, Nicholas DB, Shakako K, Zwicker J. Mental health challenges during COVID-19: perspectives from parents with children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2022; 17:2136090. [PMID: 36309898 PMCID: PMC9629071 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2022.2136090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The global pandemic and subsequent denials, delays, and disruptions in essential daily activities created significant challenges for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and their parents. Public health restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic limited access to supports and services required by children with NDDs to maintain their health and well-being. Objective This study sought to understand the impacts of these public health measures and restrictions on mental health from the perspective of parents with children with NDDs to inform pathways for public health policies responsive to the needs of this population. Method Interpretive descriptive design was used to guide data collection and data analysis. Forty caregivers were interviewed about their experience with pandemic restrictions. Findings Generic policy measures contributed to many gaps in families’ social support systems and contributed to mental health challenges for children and their parents. Four themes emerged: 1) lack of social networks and activities, 2) lack of access to health and social supports, 3) tension in the family unit, and 4) impact on mental health for children and their parents. Recommendations Emergency preparedness planning requires a disability inclusive approach allocating resources for family supports in the home and community. Families identified supports to minimize further pandemic disruptions and enhance recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Currie
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mount Royal University, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Brittany Finlay
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ashish Seth
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Christiane Roth
- School of Public Policy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Myada Elsabbagh
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | - Anne Hudon
- Faculty of Medicine, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | - Matthew Hunt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | | | - Lucyna Lach
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | - Raphael Lencucha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | - David B Nicholas
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Keiko Shakako
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Que., Canada
| | - Jennifer Zwicker
- School of Public Policy; Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Dimitriou D, Esposito G. Management and support of individuals with developmental disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 125:104228. [PMID: 35358826 PMCID: PMC8942653 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dagmara Dimitriou
- Sleep Research and Education Laboratory, UCL Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.
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Global Trends in the Research on Early Childhood Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Bibliometric Analysis. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci12050331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, schools and preschools worldwide have been suspended, causing many challenges for students, parents, and teachers. Through home-schooling, preschool children struggle to accept new (online) learning modes. Teachers need to acquire digital skills quickly to deliver online teaching, while parents need to take on the role of a tutor at home to facilitate their children’s learning. This study aims to gauge the global trends in the research on early childhood education (ECE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly considering the need for a swift response to the impact of the pandemic. We employed the bibliometric approach to studying ECE studies during the pandemic by identifying the countries of most-cited publications, most-cited categories of studies, and research methodologies used in the eligible studies (N = 507). Analysis reveals that technology integration in ECE has grown fast to timely facilitate online teaching and resolve varied challenges such as parental stress, a lack of resources, and the quality of education in this field. Based on the bibliometric approach, we highlighted research focusing on key themes such as online learning and teaching, physical activity, stress and mental health, and families in early childhood. This study offers a global perspective on ECE research during the pandemic and provides researchers, policymakers, and practitioners with future directions.
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Cahapay MB. Tailoring remote special education for children with down syndrome during COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 70:40-48. [PMID: 38456132 PMCID: PMC10916918 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2022.2056404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Down syndrome is the most common form of intellectual disability. However, there is a paucity of educational research focused on this vulnerable segment of learners especially in the present novel situation. This paper aimed to explore how teachers tailor remote special education for children with down syndrome amid the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. It draws from a phenomenological qualitative study that collected information from online interviews with nine special education teachers handling children with down syndrome. The results revealed five themes: (1) contextualize individual educational plans; (2) meet sensory and movement needs; (3) emotionally connect with children; (4) communicate often with families; and (5) collaborate with community. This study provides practical insight into the enabling practices that teachers use to design the remote special education for children with down syndrome amid the current crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Cahapay
- College of Education, Mindanao State University, General Santos City, Philippines
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Brief Report: Covid Restrictions had Positive and Negative Impacts on Schooling for Students on the Autism Spectrum. J Autism Dev Disord 2022:10.1007/s10803-022-05451-z. [PMID: 35113328 PMCID: PMC8811594 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05451-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic (2020) resulted in school closures and changes to school delivery. The aim of this study was to explore how these changes impacted on children on the autism spectrum. As part of an online survey, parents (n = 180) of school-aged children (9.3–16.5 years) on the autism spectrum in Australia were asked an open-ended question on how the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted on their child’s education experience. Nearly half (48%) of the parents reported only negative impacts, 26% only positive impacts, 12% a mix of positive and negative impacts, and 9% little or no impact. Parents identified that school restrictions impacted on more than their child’s learning. These findings highlight areas to consider when supporting autism-friendly learning.
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Guller B, Yaylaci F, Eyuboglu D. Those in the shadow of the pandemic: impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on the mental health of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their parents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 68:943-955. [PMID: 36568626 PMCID: PMC9788683 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2021.1930827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the emotional and behavioral responses of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their parents during the recent novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and the associated factors. Our study included 299 children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders and 299 mothers or fathers. Participant groups were as follows: autism spectrum disorder (n = 131, 43.8%); intellectual disability (n = 103, 34.4%); specific learning disorder (n = 46, 15.4%); and communication disorder (n = 19, 6.4%). A data form was created to investigate the emotional, behavioral, sleep problems, and appetite changes of the cases, and it was adapted for online application and conveyed to the parents in the form of emails. Our study indicated that children and adolescents' emotional problems were 44.5%, behavioral problems 33.4%, sleep problems 65.2%, and appetite problems 32.4%. Irritability (35.5%), hyperactivity (37.8%), stereotyped behavior (29.8%), delayed sleep phase (51.5%) were the most common problems reported by the parents. The frequencies of emotional and behavioral problems in the ASD group were higher than in the other groups (p < .05). In addition, the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS) was used to determine the parents' anxiety and depression symptoms. Mean HADS anxiety and depression scores of parents were 8.5 ± 4.3 and 7.8 ± 4.2, respectively. Our study demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown negatively affected children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their parents in many areas. It is necessary that these children and their families are evaluated and supported by local professionals, as the ongoing pandemic can exacerbate the current challenges. The findings of our study reflect the early period of the pandemic. For this reason, longitudinal studies about the long-term consequences of the pandemic are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Guller
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bursa Dörtcelik Child Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
- Correspondence to: Baris Guller, Bursa Dörtcelik Child Hospital, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ertugrul, Dogan Avcioglu st., 16120Nilufer/Bursa, Turkey.
| | - Ferhat Yaylaci
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bursa Dörtcelik Child Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Damla Eyuboglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey
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A Multidisciplinary Telerehabilitation Approach for Supporting Social Interaction in Autism Spectrum Disorder Families: An Italian Digital Platform in Response to COVID-19. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11111404. [PMID: 34827403 PMCID: PMC8615374 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111404] [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: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to its complexity and high variability in symptomology, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) requires a coordinated and multidisciplinary intervention to better support the different programs over time and to promote social interactions in all contexts of life. Telemedicine can offer a valuable contribution in this regard, providing low-cost and portable applications. In this paper, we presented an Italian project, SUPER, which aimed to foster collaboration and information sharing between ASD families, health services, and schools. SUPER provided a digital platform with several tools that were useful both to enhance general and specific ASD knowledge and to promote personalized programs for children with ASD. We conducted a preliminary user test for the platform with 30 participants (18 therapists and 12 parents of children with ASD) using the system usability scale (SUS). The total mean SUS score (89.2) showed that SUPER is an excellent, usable system. Moreover, we extracted the usability and learnability mean components from the SUS scores, which were 96.1 and 61.7, respectively. Our preliminary results indicate that SUPER is a very user-friendly application and its innovative telemedicine approach could be ahelpful communication and collaboration tool among the different contexts of care for children with ASD.
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