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Rizkallah J, Staios M, Analytis P, Kosmidis MH, March E, Stolwyk RJ. Exploring How Sociocultural Factors Affect the Experience of Completing Neuropsychological Assessments Within Older Greek-Australians. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2024; 39:65-77. [PMID: 37332261 PMCID: PMC10802220 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acad044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The field of cultural neuropsychology has grown exponentially over the last three decades. With a limited culturally informed evidence base to guide neuropsychological practice, the acceptability of existing paradigms has been called into question when applied to culturally diverse and educationally disadvantaged groups. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of Greek Australian older adults who underwent a cognitive assessment to better understand potential barriers and facilitators to engagement and to improve neuropsychological assessment outcomes. METHOD Semi-structured interviews were developed to explore cultural attitudes and contextual factors relating to neuropsychological assessment. Interviews were conducted by Greek-speaking neuropsychologists using a sample of 10 healthy elderly Greek Australians following the completion of a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. Data were analyzed using a phenomenological design within a critical realist framework. RESULTS Analysis revealed the emergence of three broad themes: sociocultural factors, experiences within the broader medical system, and the assessment experience. Engagement with cognitive assessment was influenced by several factors, including rapport building, understanding of the assessment, and use of inappropriate tests. Furthermore, level and quality of education, sex differences, language barriers, acculturation, previous experiences of prejudice, anxiety, and a preference for Greek-speaking clinicians were additional factors reported to affect the client experience and validity of assessment outcomes. CONCLUSION Neuropsychological assessment is, in part, affected by culturally reinforced attitudes. Failing to adjust the relationship between the clinician and client, test environment, style of communication, and the use of culturally inappropriate tests is likely to affect the validity of assessment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Rizkallah
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mathew Staios
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Penelope Analytis
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary H Kosmidis
- Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evrim March
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Renerus J Stolwyk
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Klipfel KM, Sweet JJ, Nelson NW, Moberg PJ. Gender and ethnic/racial diversity in clinical neuropsychology: Updates from the AACN, NAN, SCN 2020 practice and "salary survey". Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 37:231-285. [PMID: 35582913 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2022.2054360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examination of gender and diversity issues within clinical neuropsychology, using data from the 2020 professional practice and "salary survey." METHODS Clinical neuropsychologists in the U.S. and Canada were invited to participate in an online survey. The final sample consisted of 1677 doctoral-level practitioners. RESULTS Approximately, 60% of responding neuropsychologists are women and 53.8% of those women identify as early career psychologists (ECPs). Conversely, a majority of men in the sample are advanced career psychologists (ACPs). Both genders work predominantly in institutions, but more men than women work in private practice. ACP men produce a greater number of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Across all work settings, women earn significantly less than men, and are less satisfied with their incomes. Establishing and maintaining family life is the biggest obstacle to attaining greater income and job satisfaction for both genders. Ethnic/racial minority status was identified in 12.9% of respondents, with 59.2% being ECPs. Job satisfaction and hostility in the workplace vary across ethnic/racial minority groups. Hispanic/Latino(a) and White neuropsychologists report higher incomes, but there were no statistically significant differences between any of the groups. CONCLUSIONS Income and select practice differences persist between female and male neuropsychologists. There is a slow rate of increased ethnic/racial diversity over time, which is much more apparent among early career practitioners. Trajectories and demographics suggest that the gender income gap is unlikely to be improved by the next survey iteration in 2025, whereas it is very likely that ethnic/racial diversity will continue to increase gradually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Klipfel
- Isaac Ray Forensic Group, LLC, Chicago, IL, USA.,Michigan Avenue Neuropsychologists, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jerry J Sweet
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Nathaniel W Nelson
- Morrison Family College of Health, University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Paul J Moberg
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Franzen S, van den Berg E, Bossenbroek W, Kranenburg J, Scheffers EA, van Hout M, van de Wiel L, Goudsmit M, van Bruchem-Visser RL, van Hemmen J, Jiskoot LC, Papma JM. Neuropsychological assessment in the multicultural memory clinic: Development and feasibility of the TULIPA battery. Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 37:60-80. [PMID: 35225154 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2022.2043447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychological assessment of culturally diverse populations is hindered by barriers in language, culture, education, and a lack of suitable tests. Furthermore, individuals from diverse backgrounds are often unfamiliar with being cognitively tested. The aim of this study was to develop a new neuropsychological test battery and study its feasibility in multicultural memory clinics. Composition of the TULIPA battery (Towards a Universal Language: Intervention and Psychodiagnostic Assessment) entailed a literature review and consultation with experts and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Feasibility was investigated by examining administration and completion rates and the frequency of factors complicating neuropsychological assessment in 345 patients from 37 countries visiting four multicultural memory clinics in the Netherlands. The test battery included existing tests such as the Cross-Cultural Dementia screening (CCD), Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS), tests from the European Cross-Cultural Neuropsychological Test Battery, and newly developed tests. Completion rates for the test battery were generally high (82%-100%), except for CCD Dots subtest B (58%). Although tests of the "core" TULIPA battery were administered often (median: 6 of 7, IQR: 5-7), supplementary tests were administered less frequently (median: 1 of 9; IQR: 0-3). The number of administered tests correlated with disease severity (RUDAS, ρ=.33, adjusted p < .001), but not with other patient characteristics. Complicating factors were observed frequently, e.g. suboptimal effort (29%-50%), fatigue (29%), depression (37%-57%). The TULIPA test battery is a promising new battery to assess culturally diverse populations in a feasible way, provided that complicating factors are taken into account. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/13854046.2022.2043447 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Franzen
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther van den Berg
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willemijn Bossenbroek
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Psychology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Judi Kranenburg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Esther A Scheffers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Moniek van Hout
- Department of Medical Psychology, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte van de Wiel
- Department of Medical Psychology, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Miriam Goudsmit
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Judy van Hemmen
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lize C Jiskoot
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janne M Papma
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Robbins RN, Santoro AF, Ferraris C, Asiedu N, Liu J, Dolezal C, Malee KM, Mellins CA, Paul R, Thongpibul K, Puthanakit T, Aurpibul L. Adaptation and construct validity evaluation of a tablet-based, short neuropsychological test battery for use with adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Thailand. Neuropsychology 2022; 36:695-708. [PMID: 35980694 PMCID: PMC9897317 DOI: 10.1037/neu0000851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Deficits in neurocognitive functioning are common among adolescents and young adults (AYA) with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV). Limitations of traditional neuropsychological tests hinder assessment of neurocognition in low- and middle-income countries where most AYA with PHIV reside. Computerized testing could make assessment of neurocognition more accessible in these countries. This study examined a culturally modified NeuroScreen, a tablet-based neurocognitive testing app, for use in Thailand. Construct validity was examined among Thai AYA (13-23 years) with and without PHIV. METHOD NeuroScreen underwent adaptation including language, content, and usability review by Thai psychologists, AYA, and clinical staff. One hundred Thai AYA (50 PHIV; 50 HIV-uninfected, matched controls) were administered the adapted NeuroScreen and a battery of traditional paper-and-pencil neuropsychological tests. Correlations, mean differences, and proportions with impaired performance were examined across NeuroScreen and the traditional tests. RESULTS The Thai version of NeuroScreen was deemed understandable and culturally appropriate. A large correlation (.82) between overall performance on the NeuroScreen and traditional batteries was observed. Small-to-large correlations were found between conceptually similar NeuroScreen and traditional tests of processing speed, working memory, motor speed, and executive functioning. Mean test performance differences between AYA with PHIV and controls were similar between test batteries. Both sets of tests identified similar rates of impaired participants. CONCLUSIONS Results provide support for the acceptability and construct validity of the Thai NeuroScreen tests to assess neurocognition in Thai AYA with PHIV. An easy-to-use tool to assess neurocognition can help Thai providers provide better care for AYA with PHIV. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nana Asiedu
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies
| | - Jun Liu
- New York State Psychiatric Institute
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Assessment of Neurocognitive Functions, Olfaction, Taste, Mental, and Psychosocial Health in COVID-19 in Adults: Recommendations for Harmonization of Research and Implications for Clinical Practice. J Int Neuropsychol Soc 2022; 28:642-660. [PMID: 34365990 PMCID: PMC8825876 DOI: 10.1017/s1355617721000862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To propose a set of internationally harmonized procedures and methods for assessing neurocognitive functions, smell, taste, mental, and psychosocial health, and other factors in adults formally diagnosed with COVID-19 (confirmed as SARS-CoV-2 + WHO definition). METHODS We formed an international and cross-disciplinary NeuroCOVID Neuropsychology Taskforce in April 2020. Seven criteria were used to guide the selection of the recommendations' methods and procedures: (i) Relevance to all COVID-19 illness stages and longitudinal study design; (ii) Standard, cross-culturally valid or widely available instruments; (iii) Coverage of both direct and indirect causes of COVID-19-associated neurological and psychiatric symptoms; (iv) Control of factors specifically pertinent to COVID-19 that may affect neuropsychological performance; (v) Flexibility of administration (telehealth, computerized, remote/online, face to face); (vi) Harmonization for facilitating international research; (vii) Ease of translation to clinical practice. RESULTS The three proposed levels of harmonization include a screening strategy with telehealth option, a medium-size computerized assessment with an online/remote option, and a comprehensive evaluation with flexible administration. The context in which each harmonization level might be used is described. Issues of assessment timelines, guidance for home/remote assessment to support data fidelity and telehealth considerations, cross-cultural adequacy, norms, and impairment definitions are also described. CONCLUSIONS The proposed recommendations provide rationale and methodological guidance for neuropsychological research studies and clinical assessment in adults with COVID-19. We expect that the use of the recommendations will facilitate data harmonization and global research. Research implementing the recommendations will be crucial to determine their acceptability, usability, and validity.
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Hetta. G, Jane. M, Michelle. H, Anna. D, Reuben. R, Greg. K, Andre. JJ, Leslie L, Thomas. M, GF. TK. Impact of HIV on Cognitive Performance in Professional Drivers. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:527-536. [PMID: 34974470 PMCID: PMC9058184 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intellectually demanding modern workplace is often dependent on good cognitive health, yet there is little understanding of how neurocognitive dysfunction related to HIV presents in employed individuals working in high-risk vocations such as driving. HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment is also associated with poorer long-term cognitive, health, and employment outcomes. SETTING This study, set in Cape Town, South Africa, assessed the effects of HIV on neuropsychological test performance in employed male professional drivers. METHOD We administered a neuropsychological test battery spanning 7 cognitive domains and obtained behavioral data, anthropometry, and medical biomarkers from 3 groups of professional drivers (68 men with HIV, 55 men with cardiovascular risk factors, and 81 controls). We compared the drivers' cognitive profiles and used multiple regression modeling to investigate whether between-group differences persisted after considering potentially confounding sociodemographic and clinical variables (ie, income, home language, depression, and the Framingham risk score). RESULTS Relative to other study participants, professional drivers with HIV performed significantly more poorly on tests assessing processing speed (P < 0.003) and attention and working memory (P = 0.018). Group membership remained a predictor of cognitive performance after controlling for potential confounders. The cognitive deficits observed in men with HIV were, however, largely characterized as being mild or asymptomatic. Consistent with this characterization, their relatively poor performance on neuropsychological testing did not generalize to self-reported impairment on activities of daily living. CONCLUSION Drivers with HIV may be at risk of poorer long-term health and employment outcomes. Programs that monitor and support their long-term cognitive health are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gouse Hetta.
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit and Neurosciences Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Masson Jane.
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit and Neurosciences Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Henry Michelle.
- Centre for Higher Education Development, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dreyer Anna.
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit and Neurosciences Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robbins Reuben.
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Kew Greg.
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joska John Andre.
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit and Neurosciences Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - London Leslie
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marcotte Thomas.
- HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Kevin GF.
- ACSENT Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Franzen S. Cross-cultural neuropsychological assessment in Europe: Position statement of the European Consortium on Cross-Cultural Neuropsychology (ECCroN). Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 36:546-557. [PMID: 34612169 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2021.1981456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decades European societies have become increasingly diverse. This diversity in culture, education, and language significantly impacts neuropsychological assessment. Although several initiatives are under way to overcome these barriers - e.g. newly developed and validated test batteries - there is a need for more collaboration in the development and implementation of neuropsychological tests, such as in the domains of social cognition and language. To address these gaps in cross-cultural neuropsychological assessment in Europe, the European Consortium on Cross-Cultural Neuropsychology (ECCroN) was established in 2019. ECCroN recommends taking a broad range of variables into account, such as linguistic factors, literacy, education, migration history, acculturation and other cultural factors. We advocate against race-based norms as a solution to the challenging interpretation of group differences on neuropsychological tests, and instead support the development, validation, and standardization of more widely applicable/cross-culturally applicable tests that take into account interindividual variability. Last, ECCroN advocates for an improvement in the clinical training of neuropsychologists in culturally sensitive neuropsychological assessment, and the development and implementation of guidelines for interpreter-mediated neuropsychological assessment in diverse populations in Europe. ECCroN may impact research and clinical practice by contributing to existing theoretical frameworks and by improving the assessment of diverse individuals across Europe through collaborations on test development, collection of normative data, cross-cultural clinical training, and interpreter-mediated assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Franzen
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus MC - University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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