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Veraksa A, Hasegawa M, Bukhalenkova D, Almazova O, Aslanova M, Matsumoto E. Comparison of executive functions in Russian and Japanese preschoolers. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1444564. [PMID: 39228877 PMCID: PMC11369708 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1444564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
This study analyzed differences in level of main executive function (EF) components (such as inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) among Russian and Japanese preschoolers. The study involved 102 children of 5-6.9 years old: 51 child from Russia and 51 child from Japan. Out of 102 children 48 were boys and 54 girls. It was found that the cognitive flexibility level in Russian children is higher and inhibition level is lower than in Japanese children. The results of the boys' EF comparison showed that boys from Russia have lower cognitive and physical inhibition levels than boys from Japan. Also it was shown that cognitive flexibility in Russian girls is significantly higher and cognitive inhibition is lower than in Japanese girls. The results obtained are discussed from the point of view of possible cultural differences in the two countries studied, which are manifested in the expectations of adults from children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Veraksa
- Department of Educational Psychology and Pedagogy, Faculty of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mari Hasegawa
- Graduate School of Education, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Daria Bukhalenkova
- Department of Educational Psychology and Pedagogy, Faculty of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Almazova
- Department of Educational Psychology and Pedagogy, Faculty of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Margarita Aslanova
- Laboratory of Childhood Psychology and Digital Socialization, Federal Scientific Center for Psychological and Interdisciplinary Research, Moscow, Russia
| | - Emi Matsumoto
- Faculty of Education, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki, Japan
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Cook CJ, Howard SJ, Makaula H, Merkley R, Mshudulu M, Tshetu N, Scerif G, Draper CE. Risk and Protective Factors for Executive Function in Vulnerable South African Preschool-Age Children. J Cogn 2024; 7:58. [PMID: 39035072 PMCID: PMC11259110 DOI: 10.5334/joc.377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Executive function (EF) theory and research continues to under-represent the contexts in which the majority of the world's children reside, despite their potential to support, refute, or refine our current understandings. The current study sought to contribute to our understanding of EF in low-income settings in South Africa by investigating longitudinal associations of context-specific risk and protective factors for EF development in three- to five-year-old children who had limited access to ECCE services before the age of five. Child-caregiver dyads (N = 171) participated in two rounds of data collection (approximately seven months apart) during which child EF was assessed using the Early Years Toolbox; context-specific risk and protective factors were assessed through a caregiver questionnaire. Hierarchical linear regressions revealed that after controlling for age, attending ECCE services at time 2 (β = 0.30, p < 0.001), and diversity of caregivers at time 1 (β = 0.14, p = 0.041) were the only factors positively associated with EF at time 2. Other factors commonly associated with EF such as caregiver education, and household income were not significant, while resources in the home were significantly associated with EF (β = -0.18, p = 0.007) but in the opposite direction to what was expected. These results add to accumulating evidence that predictors of EF established in Minority World contexts may not be consistent across contexts, emphasising the need to broaden the EF evidence base. For instance, future studies could incorporate qualitative and ethnographic methods to better capture the cultural and contextual nuances relating to EF, to better inform our statistical and theoretical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caylee J Cook
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Steven J Howard
- Early Start and School of Education, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Hleliwe Makaula
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Merkley
- Department of Cognitive Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mbulelo Mshudulu
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nosibusiso Tshetu
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gaia Scerif
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine E Draper
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Lynch JD, Xu Y, Yolton K, Khoury JC, Chen A, Lanphear BP, Cecil KM, Braun JM, Epstein JN. [Formula: see text] Environmental predictors of children's executive functioning development. Child Neuropsychol 2024; 30:615-635. [PMID: 37621102 PMCID: PMC10891297 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2023.2247603] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Executive functioning (EF) abilities develop through childhood, but this development can be impacted by various psychosocial environmental influences. Using longitudinal data from the Health Outcome and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study, a prospective pregnancy and birth cohort study, we examined if psychosocial environmental factors were significant predictors of EF development. Study participants comprised 271 children and their primary caregivers (98.5% mothers) followed from birth to age 12. We identified four distinct EF developmental trajectory groups comprising a consistently impaired group (13.3%), a descending impairment group (27.7%), an ascending impairment group (9.95%), and a consistently not impaired group (49.1%). Higher levels of maternal ADHD and relational frustration appear to be risk factors for increased EF difficulty over time, while higher family income may serve as a protective factor delaying predisposed EF impairment. Important intervention targets might include teaching positive and effective parenting strategies to mothers whose children are at risk for EF dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- James D. Lynch
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, 45 W. Corry Blvd, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Center for ADHD, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, MLC 10006, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Yingying Xu
- Division of General and Community Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, MLC 7035, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Jane C. Khoury
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Bruce P. Lanphear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kim M. Cecil
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 234 Goodman St, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Joseph M. Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, 121 South Main St, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Jeffery N. Epstein
- Center for ADHD, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, MLC 10006, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Claussen AH, Holbrook JR, Hutchins HJ, Robinson LR, Bloomfield J, Meng L, Bitsko RH, O'Masta B, Cerles A, Maher B, Rush M, Kaminski JW. All in the Family? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Parenting and Family Environment as Risk Factors for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2024; 25:249-271. [PMID: 35438451 PMCID: PMC9017071 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01358-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Parenting and family environment have significant impact on child development, including development of executive function, attention, and self-regulation, and may affect the risk of developmental disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This paper examines the relationship of parenting and family environment factors with ADHD. A systematic review of the literature was conducted in 2014 and identified 52 longitudinal studies. A follow-up search in 2021 identified 7 additional articles, for a total of 59 studies that examined the association of parenting factors with ADHD outcomes: ADHD overall (diagnosis or symptoms), ADHD diagnosis specifically, or presence of the specific ADHD symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. For parenting factors that were present in three or more studies, pooled effect sizes were calculated separately for dichotomous or continuous ADHD outcomes, accounting for each study's conditional variance. Factors with sufficient information for analysis were parenting interaction quality (sensitivity/warmth, intrusiveness/reactivity, and negativity/harsh discipline), maltreatment (general maltreatment and physical abuse), parental relationship status (divorce, single parenting), parental incarceration, and child media exposure. All factors showed a significant direct association with ADHD outcomes, except sensitivity/warmth which had an inverse association. Parenting factors predicted diagnosis and overall symptoms as well as inattentive and hyperactive symptoms when measured, but multiple factors showed significant heterogeneity across studies. These findings support the possibility that parenting and family environment influences ADHD symptoms and may affect a child's likelihood of being diagnosed with ADHD. Prevention strategies that support parents, such as decreasing parenting challenges and increasing access to parent training in behavior management, may improve children's long-term developmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika H Claussen
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Joseph R Holbrook
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Helena J Hutchins
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Research Participation Programs, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lara R Robinson
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeanette Bloomfield
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lu Meng
- Covid-19 Response Health System and Worker Safety Task Force, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca H Bitsko
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Brion Maher
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jennifer W Kaminski
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Ramos C, Pereira AF, Feher A, Baptista J. How does sensitivity influence early executive function? A critical review on hot and cool processes. Infant Behav Dev 2023; 73:101895. [PMID: 37856950 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2023.101895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
There is compelling evidence that the quality of caregiver-child interactions during toddlerhood and the preschool years supports the development of executive function (EF) (Bernier et al., 2010; 2015; 2016; Fay-Stammbach et al., 2014; Geeraerts et al., 2021). Based on such findings, we make the case herein that sensitivity may be one of the most important dimensions of parenting contributing to early EF. In the present article, we will review empirical evidence, integrating findings from a wide range of scientific disciplines - cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and developmental psychopathology - and present theoretical ideas about how two contexts of sensitive caregiving - i.e. sensitivity to distress and non-distress cues - may be contributing differently to hot and cool EF development. Implications for future investigations on the environmental contributors of early EF, and its mechanisms, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Ramos
- Iscte-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, CIS-Iscte, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Alfredo F Pereira
- NOVA School of Science and Technology, Center of Technology and Systems (UNINOVA-CTS), NOVA University Lisbon.
| | - Amber Feher
- Iscte-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, CIS-Iscte, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Joana Baptista
- Iscte-Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, CIS-Iscte, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Duncan J, Phillips E, Mitchell DJ, Cooper PJ, Murray L. Parental Scaffolding during Book-Sharing Predicts Child General Intelligence. Psychon Bull Rev 2023; 30:2002-2009. [PMID: 36944869 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-023-02262-w] [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: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
While much variance in general intelligence or g is genetic, a substantial environmental component suggests a possible role for parent-child interaction. In particular, previous evidence suggests the importance of parental scaffolding, or provision of cognitive structure to shape child behaviour. A role for scaffolding is consistent with the proposal that, in adult cognition, a critical aspect of g is decomposition of complex problems into a structure of simpler parts. Building on previous work, we recruited 162 parents attending Children's Centres with a child aged 2-4 years, and examined parental scaffolding during a book-sharing activity. Scaffolding was measured as the first principal component of a variety of parental behaviours, including sensitivity, focusing attention, extending comprehension, and promoting child participation. Child g was measured as the first principal component of a broad cognitive battery, including language, attention, working memory, and executive function. Importantly, we assessed contributions of the parent's own intelligence, education, and family income. Though these variables were all associated with both child g and parental scaffolding, scaffolding remained predictive of child g even once the influence of these variables was removed. In contrast to the correlation with cognitive proficiency, scaffolding did not predict child pro-social behaviour. We suggest that parental scaffolding supports the child's development of a broad skill of attentional structuring, promoting the across-the-board cognitive proficiency that is reflected in g.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Duncan
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, 15 Chaucer Road, Cambridge, CB2 7EF, UK.
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Emily Phillips
- School of Psychology, University of East London, London, UK
| | - Daniel J Mitchell
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, 15 Chaucer Road, Cambridge, CB2 7EF, UK
| | - Peter J Cooper
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Lynne Murray
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK.
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Bezerra T, Cristi-Montero C, Bandeira PF, Souza Filho A, Duncan M, Martins C. Biological, behavioral, and social correlates of executive function in low-income preschoolers: Insights from the perspective of the networks. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. CHILD 2023; 12:272-280. [PMID: 35819910 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2022.2095912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral, biological, and social correlates may be related to the association between executive function (EF) and physical activity (PA), when considering such variables as an integrated and non-linear system. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between EF, PA and associated correlates in low-income preschoolers according to a network perspective. Thus, 142 preschoolers of both sexes, age 3-to-5-years-old (51% girls) were analyzed. Light, moderate and vigorous PA, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), body mass index, family income, preterm birth, presence of siblings, presence of other children at home and the child's primary caregiver were assessed. Our results showed that EF was positively associated with age (b = 0.47), child's primary caregivers (b = 0.37), moderate PA (b = 0.30) and CRF (b = 0.25). Negative associations were seen with preterm birth (b = -0.50), vigorous PA (b = -0.34), presence of other children at home (b = -0.25), and sex (b = -0.33). The network's centrality indicators highlighted preterm birth and moderate PA as the most important variables in the network. Future interventions aiming to increase low-income preschoolers' EF should focus on increasing moderate PA, with special attention to preterm children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaynã Bezerra
- Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Carlos Cristi-Montero
- School of Physical Education at Pontificia, Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paulo Felipe Bandeira
- Department of Physical Education, Regional University of Cariri, Crato, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Anastácio Souza Filho
- Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
| | - Michael Duncan
- Centre for Applied Biological and Exercise Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | - Clarice Martins
- Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil
- Research Centre of Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, and Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Ulmer-Yaniv A, Yirmiya K, Peleg I, Zagoory-Sharon O, Feldman R. Developmental Cascades Link Maternal-Newborn Skin-to-Skin Contact with Young Adults' Psychological Symptoms, Oxytocin, and Immunity; Charting Mechanisms of Developmental Continuity from Birth to Adulthood. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:847. [PMID: 37372132 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Premature birth disrupts the continuity of maternal-newborn bodily contact, which underpins the development of physiological and behavioral support systems. Utilizing a unique cohort of mother-preterm dyads who received skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Care, KC) versus controls, and following them to adulthood, we examined how a touch-based neonatal intervention impacts three adult outcomes; anxiety/depressive symptoms, oxytocin, and secretory immunoglobulin A (s-IgA), a biomarker of the immune system. Consistent with dynamic systems' theory, we found that links from KC to adult outcomes were indirect, mediated by its effects on maternal mood, child attention and executive functions, and mother-child synchrony across development. These improvements shaped adult outcomes via three mechanisms; (a) "sensitive periods", where the infancy improvement directly links with an outcome, for instance, infant attention linked with higher oxytocin and lower s-IgA; (b) "step-by-step continuity", where the infancy improvement triggers iterative changes across development, gradually shaping an outcome; for instance, mother-infant synchrony was stable across development and predicted lower anxiety/depressive symptoms; and (c) "inclusive mutual-influences", describing cross-time associations between maternal, child, and dyadic factors; for instance, from maternal mood to child executive functions and back. Findings highlight the long-term impact of a birth intervention across development and provide valuable insights on the mechanisms of "developmental continuity", among the key topics in developmental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Ulmer-Yaniv
- Center for Developmental Social Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
| | - Karen Yirmiya
- Center for Developmental Social Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
| | - Itai Peleg
- Center for Developmental Social Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
| | - Orna Zagoory-Sharon
- Center for Developmental Social Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
| | - Ruth Feldman
- Center for Developmental Social Neuroscience, Reichman University, Herzliya 4610101, Israel
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Kotowicz J, Woll B, Herman R. Executive Function in Deaf Native Signing Children. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2023:7152319. [PMID: 37141625 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is twofold: To examine if deafness is invariably associated with deficits in executive function (EF) and to investigate the relationship between sign language proficiency and EF in deaf children of deaf parents with early exposure to a sign language. It is also the first study of EF in children acquiring Polish Sign Language. Even though the mothers of the deaf children (N = 20) had lower levels of education compared with the mothers of a hearing control group, the children performed similarly to their hearing peers (N = 20) on a variety of EF task-based assessments. Only in the Go/No-go task were weaker inhibition skills observed in younger deaf children (6-9 years) compared with hearing peers, and this difference was not seen in older children (10-12 years). Hence, deafness does not necessarily impair EF; however, attentional and inhibition abilities may be acquired via a different route in deaf children. Sign language receptive skills predicted EF in deaf children. In conclusion, we highlight the importance of deaf parenting building the scaffolding for EF in deaf children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Kotowicz
- Section for Sign Linguistics, Faculty of Polish Studies, University of Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bencie Woll
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, UK
| | - Rosalind Herman
- Department of Language and Communication Science, City, University of London, UK
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Li W, Nefs HT, Emmen RA, Woudstra MLJ, Branger MC, Wang L, Alink LR, Mesman J. Does parental autonomy support mediate the relation between parent and infant executive function? A study of mothers and fathers in the Netherlands and China. Infant Behav Dev 2023; 71:101833. [PMID: 36990019 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2023.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Parenting skills, such as Autonomy Support (AS), have been proposed as a potential mechanism explaining the intergenerational contiguity of Executive Function (EF). However, few studies have focused on mothers and fathers among non-Western families. The current study investigated the role of maternal and paternal AS in the relation between parental EF and infant EF at 14 months of age among 123 Dutch and 63 Chinese first-time mothers and fathers and their infants. Multiple-group structural equation models were built for mothers and fathers separately with country as a grouping variable. Results showed that parental AS did not mediate the relation between parent EF and infant EF at 14 months. Mean-level differences were found in parental AS, maternal EF, and infant inhibition across countries, while no country differences were found in the relation between parent EF, AS and infant EF. Our findings suggested that individual differences in early EF may not be stable enough to be reliably predicted from parental factors across the Netherlands and China.
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Swider-Cios E, Vermeij A, Sitskoorn MM. Young children and screen-based media: The impact on cognitive and socioemotional development and the importance of parental mediation. COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cogdev.2023.101319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
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Rai J, Predy M, Wiebe SA, Rinaldi C, Zheng Y, Carson V. Patterns of preschool children's screen time, parent-child interactions, and cognitive development in early childhood: a pilot study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:39. [PMID: 36918980 PMCID: PMC10012297 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary objective of this study was to explore the feasibility of a virtual study protocol for a future longitudinal study, including recruitment, study measures, and procedures. The secondary objective was to examine preliminary hypotheses of associations, including 1) the correlations between total duration and patterns of screen time and cognitive development, and 2) the differences in quality of parent-child interactions for two screen-based tasks and a storybook reading task. METHODS Participants included 44 children aged 3 years and their parents from Edmonton, Alberta and surrounding areas. Children's screen time patterns (i.e., type, device, content, context) were parental-reported using a 2-week online daily diary design. Children's cognitive development (i.e., working memory, inhibitory control, self-control, and language) was measured virtually through a recorded Zoom session. Parent-child interactions during three separate tasks (i.e., video, electronic game, and storybook reading) were also measured virtually through a separate recorded Zoom session (n = 42). The quality of the interactions was determined by the Parent-Child Interaction System (PARCHISY). Descriptive statistics, Intra-class correlations (ICC), Spearman's Rho correlations, and a one-way repeated measures ANOVA with a post-hoc Bonferroni test were conducted. RESULTS All virtual protocol procedures ran smoothly. Most (70%) participants were recruited from four 1-week directly targeted Facebook ads. High completion rates and high inter-rater reliability in a random sample (Diary: 95% for 13/14 days; Cognitive development: 98% 3/4 tests, ICC > 0.93; Parent-child interactions: 100% for 3 tasks, Weighted Kappa ≥ 0.84) were observed for measures. Across cognitive development outcomes, medium effect sizes were observed for five correlations, with positive correlations observed with certain content (i.e., educational screen time) and negative associations observed for total screen time and certain types (show/movie/video viewing) and contexts (i.e., co-use). Medium and large effect sizes were observed for the differences in parent-child interaction quality between the three tasks. CONCLUSIONS The virtual study protocol appeared feasible. Preliminary findings suggest it may be important to go beyond total duration and consider type, content, and context when examining the association between screen time and cognitive development. A future longitudinal study using this virtual protocol will be conducted with a larger and more generalizable sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine Rai
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, 8840-114 St., Edmonton, AB, T6G 2H9, Canada
| | - Madison Predy
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, 8840-114 St., Edmonton, AB, T6G 2H9, Canada
| | - Sandra A Wiebe
- Faculty of Arts - Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Christina Rinaldi
- Faculty of Education - Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Yao Zheng
- Faculty of Arts - Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Valerie Carson
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, 8840-114 St., Edmonton, AB, T6G 2H9, Canada.
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Examining the role of parents and teachers in executive function development in early and middle childhood: A systematic review. DEVELOPMENTAL REVIEW 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dr.2022.101063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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14
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Hughes C, Foley S, Browne W, McHarg G, Devine RT. Developmental links between executive function and emotion regulation in early toddlerhood. Infant Behav Dev 2023; 71:101782. [PMID: 36796156 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2022.101782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Developmental associations between poor executive function (EF) and problem behaviors in toddlerhood indicate that the interplay between cognition and affect begins very early in life (Hughes, Devine, Mesman, & Blair, 2020). However, very few longitudinal studies of toddlers have included direct measures of both EF and emotion regulation (ER). In addition, while models of ER highlight the importance of situational contexts (e.g., Miller, McDonough, Rosenblum, Sameroff, 2005), existing work is limited by a heavy reliance on lab-based observations of mother-child dyads. Addressing these twin gaps, the current study of 197 families included video-based ratings of ER in toddlers' dyadic play with both mothers and fathers at each of two time-points (14- and 24-months), with parallel measures of EF being gathered in each home visit. Our cross-lagged analyses showed that EF at 14 months predicted ER at 24 months, but this association was limited to observations of toddlers with mothers. It was also asymmetric: ER at 14 months did not predict EF at 24 months. These findings support co-regulation models of early ER and highlight the predictive utility of very early individual differences in EF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Hughes
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, UK.
| | - Sarah Foley
- Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Wendy Browne
- Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Rory T Devine
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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15
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Li Z, Xu X, Xing X. The intergenerational transmission of executive function: The mediating effect of parental harsh discipline. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 136:106019. [PMID: 36608402 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.106019] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The important roles of parental EF in shaping children's EF is less clear, especially in Chinese families. Moreover, it is suggested that the negative parenting behavior may be important environmental mechanisms underlying the EF transmission. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the transmission of EF across generations and the mediating roles of parental harsh discipline in this transmission in a Chinese sample. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A total of 311 Chinese preschool-aged children and their fathers and mothers were recruited from three public kindergartens in Beijing. METHODS The Chinese version of Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version (BRIEF-A), Parent-child Conflict Tactics Scales (CTSPC) and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Preschooler Version (BRIEF-P) were respectively used to assess parental EF, harsh discipline and children's EF. RESULTS Both paternal and maternal EF positively predicted children's EF (βpaternal = 0.16, p < .01; βmaternal = 0.42, p < .001), and maternal but not paternal psychological aggression (standardized indirect estimate = 0.03, p < .05) and corporal punishment (standardized indirect estimate = 0.02, p < .05) mediated the above transmission. CONCLUSIONS These findings broaden our understanding of the distal or proximal factors and processes that account for the development of child EF in Chinese culture. Interventions focusing on improving parental especially maternal parenting practices would be helpful to shape children's EF or to interrupt the transmission of poor EF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhu Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Learning and Cognition, Research Center for Child Development, School of Psychology, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Xu
- Research Center for Child Development, College of Preschool Education, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaopei Xing
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Learning and Cognition, Research Center for Child Development, School of Psychology, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China.
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16
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Thériault-Couture F, Matte-Gagné C, Dallaire S, Brendgen M, Vitaro F, Tremblay RE, Séguin JR, Dionne G, Boivin M. Child Cognitive Flexibility and Maternal Control: A First Step toward Untangling Genetic and Environmental Contributions. J Genet Psychol 2023; 184:55-69. [PMID: 36102122 DOI: 10.1080/00221325.2022.2121638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Executive functions (EF) play an essential role in many spheres of child development. Therefore, it is crucial to get a better understanding of their etiology. Using a genetic design that involved 934 twins (400 monozygotic), this study examined the etiology of cognitive flexibility, a component of EF, at 5 years of age and its phenotypic and etiological associations with maternal control. Cognitive flexibility was measured in a laboratory setting at 5 years of age using a well-known EF-task, i.e. the Dimensional Change Card Sort (DCCS). Maternal control was measured using a self-report questionnaire. The univariate genetic model demonstrated that environmental factors mainly explained individual differences in preschoolers' performance on the DCCS task. A bivariate genetic model demonstrated that non-shared environmental mechanisms mainly explained the association (r = .-13) between maternal control and children's performance on the DCCS task. This study represents a preliminary step toward a better understanding of the genetic and environmental contributions underlying the relation between parenting behaviors and children's EF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Samuel Dallaire
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mara Brendgen
- Department of Psychology, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,CHU Ste-Justine Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Frank Vitaro
- CHU Ste-Justine Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,School of Psychoeducation, University of Montreal, Montreal, Queebec, Canada
| | - Richard E Tremblay
- Department of Pediatrics and Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean R Séguin
- CHU Ste-Justine Research Center, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ginette Dionne
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michel Boivin
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
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17
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Long DA, Waak M, Doherty NN, Dow BL. Brain-Directed Care: Why Neuroscience Principles Direct PICU Management beyond the ABCs. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121938. [PMID: 36553381 PMCID: PMC9776953 DOI: 10.3390/children9121938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Major advances in pediatric intensive care (PICU) have led to increased child survival. However, the long-term outcomes among these children following PICU discharge are a concern. Most children admitted to PICU are under five years of age, and the stressors of critical illness and necessary interventions can affect their ability to meet crucial developmental milestones. Understanding the neuroscience of brain development and vulnerability can inform PICU clinicians of new ways to enhance and support the care of these most vulnerable children and families. This review paper first explores the evidence-based neuroscience principles of brain development and vulnerability and the impact of illness and care on children's brains and ultimately wellbeing. Implications for clinical practice and training are further discussed to help optimize brain health in children who are experiencing and surviving a critical illness or injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie A. Long
- School of Nursing, Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Centre for Children’s Health Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-3138-3834
| | - Michaela Waak
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Centre for Children’s Health Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
| | - Nicola N. Doherty
- Regional Trauma Network, SPPG, DOH, Belfast BT2 8BS, Northern Ireland, UK
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Coleraine Campus, Ulster University, Coleraine BT52 1SA, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Belinda L. Dow
- School of Nursing, Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Centre for Children’s Health Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
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18
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Yeo AJ, Ledsham V, Halpern LF, Lin B, Riddick L, Sima D, Wohlfahrt KM, Jones N. Differential Contributions of Parental Warmth and Mindfulness to Child Executive Function and Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Management. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2022; 43:e598-e604. [PMID: 35976702 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Positive parenting (e.g., parental warmth, mindful parenting) has been posited to promote effective pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) management. This promotive effect may partly be conferred by fostering child self-regulatory development, such as executive function (EF). However, no research has examined whether better child EF serves as a mechanism underlying associations between positive parenting and child blood glucose levels (HbA1c). Moreover, it is unclear whether mindful parenting offers a unique benefit beyond that of parental warmth-a key pillar of effective parental involvement in T1DM management. METHODS Primary caregivers of children with T1DM (N = 101; Mage = 12.02) reported on parenting behaviors and child EF. Children's medical information was obtained through chart review. Path analysis was used to examine direct and indirect relations in the cross-sectional data. RESULTS The path analysis indicated that only parental warmth, not mindful parenting, was significantly associated with lower HbA1c. Both parental warmth and mindful parenting were significantly related to better child EF, but child EF did not mediate the associations between parenting and HbA1c. CONCLUSION Parental warmth may constitute a key parenting behavior promoting effective pediatric T1DM management. Enhancing parental warmth may be an important target of interventions aiming to improve HbA1c. Although child EF was unrelated to HbA1c in this sample, given positive associations between parental warmth and mindfulness and child EF, longitudinal research is warranted to examine whether these positive parenting behaviors may confer long-term benefits for T1DM self-management through improved EF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna J Yeo
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University at New York, Albany, NY
| | - Victoria Ledsham
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University at New York, Albany, NY
| | - Leslie F Halpern
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY; and
| | - Betty Lin
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University at New York, Albany, NY
| | - Linda Riddick
- Pediatric Endocrinology Division, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY
| | - Daniela Sima
- Pediatric Endocrinology Division, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY
| | | | - Nancy Jones
- Pediatric Endocrinology Division, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY
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19
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Huffman LG, Oshri A. Continuity versus change in latent profiles of emotion regulation and working memory during adolescence. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2022; 58:101177. [PMID: 36436429 PMCID: PMC9706540 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2022.101177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant structural and functional brain development occurs during early adolescence. These changes underlie developments in central neurocognitive processes such as working memory (WM) and emotion regulation (ER). The preponderance of studies modeling trajectories of adolescent brain development use variable-centered approaches, omitting attention to individual differences that may undergird neurobiological embedding of early life stress and attendant psychopathology. This preregistered, data-driven study used latent transition analysis (LTA) to identify (1) latent profiles of neural function during a WM and implicit ER task, (2) transitions in profiles across 24 months, and 3) associations between transitions, parental support, and subsequent psychopathology. Using two waves of data from the ABCD Study (Mage T1 = 10; Mage T2 = 12), we found three unique profiles of neural function at both T1 and T2. The Typical, Emotion Hypo-response, and Emotion-Hyper response profiles were characterized by, respectively: moderate amygdala activation and fusiform deactivation; high ACC, fusiform, and insula deactivation; and high amygdala, ACC, and insula response to ER. While 69.5 % remained in the Typical profile from T1 to T2, 27.8 % of the sample moved from one profile at T1 to another at T2. However, neither latent profiles nor transitions exhibited associations between parental support or psychopathology symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landry Goodgame Huffman
- Neuroscience Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Department of Human Development & Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Assaf Oshri
- Neuroscience Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Department of Human Development & Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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20
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Jirout JJ, Eisen S, Robertson ZS, Evans TM. Mother-child synchrony is high across child executive function levels for both physical and digital spatial play. Trends Neurosci Educ 2022; 29:100183. [PMID: 36470613 DOI: 10.1016/j.tine.2022.100183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Play is a powerful influence on children's learning and parents can provide opportunities to learn specific content by scaffolding children's play. Parent-child synchrony (i.e., harmony, reciprocity and responsiveness in interactions) is a component of parent-child interactions that is not well characterized in studies of play. PROCEDURES We tested whether children's executive function relates to mother-child synchrony during physical and digital play in sixty mother-child dyads. MAIN FINDINGS Mother-child synchrony did not relate to children's executive function or differ by play type (physical, digital), though during digital play mother-child synchrony was higher for girls relative to boys. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that mother-child synchrony is not influenced by children's executive function and physical and digital play can be similarly beneficial in offering the opportunity for responsive, reciprocal, dynamic interactions. The sex difference suggests that further factors should be explored as influences of play synchrony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie J Jirout
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 405 Emmet Street South, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
| | - Sierra Eisen
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, United States
| | - Zoe S Robertson
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, United States
| | - Tanya M Evans
- School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia, 405 Emmet Street South, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
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21
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Ribner A, Devine RT, Blair C, Hughes C. Mothers' and fathers' executive function both predict emergent executive function in toddlerhood. Dev Sci 2022; 25:e13263. [PMID: 35357069 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
There are multivariate influences on the development of children's executive function throughout the lifespan and substantial individual differences can be seen as early as when children are 1 and 2 years of age. These individual differences are moderately stable throughout early childhood, but more research is needed to better understand their origins. To some degree, individual differences in executive function are correlated between mother and child, but no research to date has examined these associations prior to when children are preschool age, nor have any studies considered the role of fathers' and mothers' executive function in tandem. Here, we use a sample of 484 families (Mothers 89.2% white; Fathers 92.5% white) in three countries (UK, USA, Netherlands) to investigate the role of each parents' executive function on the development of children's (49.7% female) executive function from 14 (M = 14.42, SD = 0.57) to 24 (M = 24.47, SD = 0.78) months, as well as parenting practices that underlie these associations. Results of structural equation models suggest stability in some-but not all-components of executive function and growing unity between components as children age. We replicate extant findings such that mothers' executive function predicts children's executive function over and above stability and extend these findings to include associations between father and child skills. We find an additive role of fathers' EF, similar in magnitude to the role of mothers' EF. Finally, for both mothers and fathers we find that sensitivity and autonomy supportive practices mediate the relations between parents' and children's executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Ribner
- Learning Research and Development Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rory T Devine
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clancy Blair
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claire Hughes
- Center for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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22
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Yu Y, Ma Q, Groth SW. Association between maternal psychological factors and offspring executive function: analysis of African-American mother-child dyads. Pediatr Res 2022; 92:1051-1058. [PMID: 35505078 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02084-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Executive function (EF) develops throughout childhood and adolescence; however, little is known about whether and how early life factors are associated with EF during these two stages. This secondary analysis examined the associations between maternal psychological characteristics at 2 years after childbirth and offspring EF at 6 and 18 years. METHODS Data were from the 18-year New Mothers' Study in Memphis, TN. Women who self-identified as African-American were included (mother-child dyads: N = 414). Maternal psychological characteristics (e.g., depressive symptoms, self-esteem) were assessed using standardized questionnaires; offspring EF at 6 (i.e., working memory, response inhibition) and 18 years (e.g., working memory, sustained attention) were assessed using age-appropriate cognitive tasks. Statistical analyses included principal component analysis (PCA) and regression models. RESULTS PCA reduced the correlated psychological characteristics to two factors: emotionality (depressive symptoms, emotional instability) and psychological resources (self-esteem, mastery, active coping). After controlling for maternal IQ, maternal emotionality was associated with worse working memory and response inhibition (marginally significant) at 6 years. Maternal psychological resources were marginally associated with better working memory at 6 years. CONCLUSIONS Maternal psychological characteristics may be associated with later EF in offspring. Future studies are needed to replicate these findings and to explore potential mediators. IMPACT African-American mothers' depressive symptoms and emotional instability at 2 years after childbirth were associated with offspring executive function at 6 and 18 years. African-American mothers' psychological resources at 2 years after childbirth were marginally associated with offspring working memory at 6 years. Maternal IQ attenuated all of the associations observed between maternal psychological status and offspring executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
| | - Qianheng Ma
- School of Public Health Sciences, The University of Chicago, 5841S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Susan W Groth
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
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23
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Mattson JT, Thorne JC, Kover ST. [Formula: see text]Parental interaction style, child engagement, and emerging executive function in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Child Neuropsychol 2022; 28:853-877. [PMID: 34978272 PMCID: PMC10686097 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2021.2023122] [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: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are known to experience cognitive and neurobehavioral difficulties, including in areas of executive function and social skills development. Interventions for these challenges have focused on a number of areas, including parent-based training. Despite the general consensus that specific parenting styles consistent with an "authoritative" - warm but firm - parenting approach may influence behavioral self-regulation, it is not known what specific parental interaction styles are associated with child engagement and emerging executive function in this population. The current study used an observation-based behavioral coding scheme during parent-child play interactions and associated parent report-based executive function measures in children with FASD. Here, we demonstrate that parental interaction styles with increased responsive/child-oriented behavior and parental affect are associated with higher levels of child play engagement, while parental interaction that has increased achievement-orientation is associated with higher levels of emerging executive function in children with FASD. These findings help inform future studies on behavioral targets in parent-based training programs and highlight the importance of considering certain parental interaction styles during parent-child play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia T. Mattson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - John C. Thorne
- Department of Speech & Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sara T. Kover
- Department of Speech & Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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24
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Tomlinson RC, Hyde LW, Weigard AS, Klump KL, Burt SA. The role of parenting in the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning: A genetically informed approach. Dev Psychopathol 2022; 34:1-13. [PMID: 35957575 PMCID: PMC9922338 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579422000645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Deficits in executive functioning both run in families and serve as a transdiagnostic risk factor for psychopathology. The present study employed twin modeling to examine parenting as an environmental pathway underlying the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning in an at-risk community sample of children and adolescents (N = 354 pairs, 167 monozygotic). Using structural equation modeling of multi-informant reports of parenting and a multi-method measure of child executive functioning, we found that better parent executive functioning related to less harsh, warmer parenting, which in turn related to better child executive functioning. Second, we assessed the etiology of executive functioning via the nuclear twin family model, finding large non-shared environmental effects (E = .69) and low-to-moderate heritability (A = .22). We did not find evidence of shared environmental effects or passive genotype-environment correlation. Third, a bivariate twin model revealed significant shared environmental overlap between both warm and harsh parenting and child executive functioning (which may indicate either passive genotype-environment correlation or environmental mediation), and non-shared environmental overlap between only harsh parenting and child executive functioning (indicating an effect of harsh parenting separable from genetic confounds). In summary, genetics contribute to the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning, with environmental mechanisms, including harsh parenting, also making unique contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luke W. Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kelly L. Klump
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S. Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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25
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Parental corporal punishment and children’s executive functions in Chinese migrant families: The mediating role of child anxiety. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03379-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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26
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Wang Y, Chen X. Early childhood relational contexts contribute to executive function in first grade. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2021.101367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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27
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Chwastek S, Leyendecker B, Busch J. Socio-Emotional Problems and Learning Skills of Roma and Recently Arrived Refugee Children in German Elementary Schools. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1027/2512-8442/a000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. Background: In Germany, many recently arrived and minority families live in multi-ethnic, high-poverty districts. Multiple risk factors threaten their children’s development. Aims: We examined the socio-emotional problems of these children in relation to their academic learning skills and executive functioning. Method: We compared teacher-rated socio-emotional problems of n = 112 Roma children (90% foreign-born), n = 101 refugee children (all foreign-born), and n = 56 German-born immigrant children (age in months: M = 99.66, SD = 13.61) between groups and to norm data. We related socio-emotional problems to receptive vocabulary, cognitive reasoning, motor skills, and executive functioning in n = 83 refugee and Roma children. Results: Roma children showed higher rates above cut-off than norm data in all subscales, more problems in all subscales but emotional symptoms than immigrant children, and more hyperactivity/inattention and peer problems than refugee children. Refugee children showed higher rates above cut-off than norm data in all subscales and more peer problems than immigrant children. Academic learning skills were overall below average among recently arrived children. Prosocial behavior was positively linked to fine motor skills. Other socio-emotional problems were not linked to academic learning skills and executive functioning. Gross and visuo-motor skills correlated positively with other academic learning skills. Limitations: We analyzed cross-sectional data. We did not include risk factors or non-immigrant German children. Conclusion: The heightened socio-emotional problems and low academic learning skills of refugee and particularly Roma children in high-poverty districts could jeopardize their educational trajectories. Additional support measures could increase their chances for educational participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Chwastek
- Faculty of Psychology, Child and Family Research, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Birgit Leyendecker
- Faculty of Psychology, Child and Family Research, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Julian Busch
- Faculty of Psychology, Child and Family Research, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
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28
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Iwinski S, Donovan SM, Fiese B, Bost K. The Impact of Household Chaos and Dietary Intake on Executive Function in Young Children. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124442. [PMID: 34959994 PMCID: PMC8707498 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124442] [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: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Children's executive functions (EFs) emerge over time and can be shaped by household environments and dietary intake. However, there is a lack of knowledge about how these factors influence EFs in children aged 18-24 months. This study tested a model exploring the relations between parent-reported dietary intake, household chaos, and child EF. The sample consisted of 294 families participating in the STRONG Kids2 birth cohort study of nutrition and child health. Caregivers completed the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), the Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale (CHAOS), and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function®-Preschool Version (BRIEF-P) to assess model variables. Regression analyses revealed a significant and independent association between assorted snacks and processed foods and two EF subscales. There were also significant associations between household chaos and each EF subscale. There was no significant moderation effect. These findings suggest that family households characterized by dysregulation are associated with children's EF difficulties during early childhood and that the role of unhealthy dietary intake in child EF should be explored further. Future longitudinal studies that include multi-method approaches are needed to document the mechanisms through which household chaos impacts child EF over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Iwinski
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (B.F.); (K.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-708-606-3235
| | - Sharon M. Donovan
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Barbara Fiese
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (B.F.); (K.B.)
| | - Kelly Bost
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (B.F.); (K.B.)
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
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The role of infant attention and parental sensitivity in infant cognitive development in the Netherlands and China. J Exp Child Psychol 2021; 215:105324. [PMID: 34896764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2021.105324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Infant attention and parental sensitivity are important predictors of later child executive function (EF). However, most studies have investigated infant and parent factors in relation to child EF separately and included only mothers from Western samples. The current study examined whether both infant attention at 4 months and parental sensitivity at 4 and 14 months were related to infant EF (i.e., inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility) at 14 months among 124 Dutch and 63 Chinese first-time mothers and fathers and their infants. Findings revealed that parental sensitivity at 4 months was not correlated with infant EF abilities at 14 months. However, infant attention at 4 months was significantly related to 14-month working memory, but not to inhibition and cognitive flexibility. Maternal sensitivity at 14 months was significantly related to 14-month inhibition, but not to working memory and cognitive flexibility). No country differences were found in the relation among 4-month infant attention, parental sensitivity, and EF outcomes. Results show that both infant and parent factors are associated with early EF development and that these correlates of early EF skills may be similar in Western and non-Western samples.
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Foley S, Badinlou F, Brocki KC, Frick MA, Ronchi L, Hughes C. Family Function and Child Adjustment Difficulties in the COVID-19 Pandemic: An International Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11136. [PMID: 34769654 PMCID: PMC8582895 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
To estimate specific proximal and distal effects of COVID-19-related restrictions on families on children's adjustment problems, we conducted a six-site international study. In total, 2516 parents from Australia, China, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America living with a young child (Mage = 5.77, SD = 1.10, range = 3 to 8 years, 47.9% female) completed an online survey between April and July 2020. The survey included the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and family risk factors (parent distress, parent-child conflict, couple conflict, and household chaos) as well as a scale to index COVID-19-related family disruption. Our analyses also included public data on the stringency of national restrictions. Across the six sites, parental responses indicated elevated levels of hyperactivity, conduct, and emotion problems in children from families characterized by heightened levels of parent distress, parent-child conflict, and household chaos. In contrast, increased peer problems were more strongly related to COVID-19-related social disruption and stringency measures. Mediation models demonstrated that associations between COVID-19 social disruption and child difficulties could be explained by parental distress. Taken together, these results suggest that although the experience of the pandemic differed across countries, associations between COVID-19-related family experiences and child adjustment difficulties were similar in their nature and magnitude across six different contexts. Programs to support family resilience could help buffer the impact of the pandemic for two generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Foley
- Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 8AQ, UK
| | - Farzaneh Badinlou
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, 751 42 Uppsala, Sweden; (F.B.); (K.C.B.); (M.A.F.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 117 63 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin C. Brocki
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, 751 42 Uppsala, Sweden; (F.B.); (K.C.B.); (M.A.F.)
| | - Matilda A. Frick
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, 751 42 Uppsala, Sweden; (F.B.); (K.C.B.); (M.A.F.)
| | - Luca Ronchi
- Department of Brain and Behavioural Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Claire Hughes
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3RQ, UK;
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31
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Andrews K, Dunn JR, Prime H, Duku E, Atkinson L, Tiwari A, Gonzalez A. Effects of household chaos and parental responsiveness on child executive functions: a novel, multi-method approach. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:147. [PMID: 34548106 PMCID: PMC8456676 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00651-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Executive functions can be adversely affected by contextual risks in the home environment including chaos and parenting challenges. Furthermore, household chaos negatively influences parenting practices. Few studies, however, have examined the role of parenting in the association between household chaos and child executive functions. Methods Using a sample of 128 school-aged children (mean = 61.9 months, SD = 2.0, range 58–68 months) and their mothers, the present study examined direct and indirect effects (via parental responsiveness) of household chaos on child executive functioning. Multi-measures were used including performance-based assessments, behavioural observations, questionnaires, and video-home tours. Results Household chaos had both a direct effect on child executive functions (β = − .31, 95% CI [− .58, − .04]) and an indirect effect (β = − .05, 95% [− .13, − .01]) via parental responsiveness. Further, the indirect effect was only significant for household instability. Conclusion These findings indicate that parental responsiveness may be compromised by household chaos, with implications for the executive functions of school-aged children. Preventative strategies are needed to improve the stability in the home and strengthen parenting practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krysta Andrews
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, MIP 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - James R Dunn
- Department of Health, Aging, and Society, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Heather Prime
- Department of Psychology, York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Eric Duku
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, MIP 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.,Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Leslie Atkinson
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St., Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Ashwini Tiwari
- Institute of Public and Preventive Health, Augusta University, 1120 15th St., Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Andrea Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, MIP 201A, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada. .,Offord Centre for Child Studies, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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Hébert É, Regueiro S, Bernier A. Investigating the Associations between Family Alliance and Executive Functioning in Middle Childhood. JOURNAL OF COGNITION AND DEVELOPMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15248372.2021.1956930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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33
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Lund T, Pavlova M, Kennedy M, Graham SA, Peterson C, Dick B, Noel M. Father- and Mother-Child Reminiscing About Past Pain and Young Children's Cognitive Skills. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:757-767. [PMID: 33693798 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsab006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Painful experiences are common, distressing, and salient in childhood. Parent-child reminiscing about past painful experiences is an untapped opportunity to process pain-related distress and, similar to reminiscing about other distressing experiences, promotes children's broader development. Previous research has documented the role of parent-child reminiscing about past pain in children's pain-related cognitions (i.e., memories for pain), but no study to date has examined the association between parent-child reminiscing about past painful experiences and children's broader cognitive skills. Design and Methods One hundred and ten typically developing four-year-old children and one of their parents reminisced about a past painful autobiographical event. Children then completed two tasks from the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery, the Flanker Inhibitory Control & Attention Test and the Picture Sequence Memory Test, to measure their executive function and episodic memory, respectively. Results Results indicated that the relation between parental reminiscing style and children's executive function was moderated by child sex, such that less frequent parental use of yes-no repetition questions was associated with boys' but not girls', greater performance on the executive function task. Children displayed greater episodic memory performance when their parents reminisced using more explanations. Conclusions The current study demonstrates the key role of parent-child reminiscing about pain in children's broader development and supports the merging of developmental and pediatric psychology fields. Future longitudinal research should examine the directionality of the relation between parent-child reminiscing about past pain and children's developmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Susan A Graham
- Owerko Centre and Department of Psychology, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary
| | - Carole Peterson
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland
| | - Bruce Dick
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta
| | - Melanie Noel
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute; Owerko Centre
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34
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Learning from atypical development: A systematic review of executive functioning in children and adolescents with the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. DEVELOPMENTAL REVIEW 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dr.2021.100962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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35
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Foraita M, Howell T, Bennett P. Environmental influences on development of executive functions in dogs. Anim Cogn 2021; 24:655-675. [PMID: 33611642 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-021-01489-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Executive functions (EFs) are a set of cognitive processes used for effortful self-regulation of behaviour. They include inhibition, working memory, cognitive flexibility and, in some models, attention. In humans, socioeconomic factors and life experiences shape development of EFs. Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) must often regulate their behaviour in the human environment (e.g. no jumping up on humans or chasing cats), and life experiences also probably influence the development of EFs in dogs. Research into dog cognition and behaviour has been thriving, and some methods used to explore these concepts (e.g. object-choice task, questionnaires measuring traits like distraction and aggression) are likely to be sensitive to differences in EFs, even if that is not their stated aim. Here we examine relevant studies to identify experiential factors which may influence the development of EFs in dogs living in human care. These are early experience, training, housing and stress. We conclude that the development of dogs' EFs may be negatively affected by hardships, and positively by surmountable challenges, early in life. Training methods appear important, with punishment-based methods leading to poorer dog EFs. Kennel environments seem to affect dog EFs negatively. While mild stressors might enhance the development of EFs, too much stress seems to have negative effects. Regulation of behaviour, a key outcome of EFs, is crucial for dogs' integration into human society. We should, therefore, strive to better understand how the environment shapes dogs' EFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Foraita
- Anthrozoology Research Group, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Tiffani Howell
- Anthrozoology Research Group, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Pauleen Bennett
- Anthrozoology Research Group, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
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36
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Metaferia BK, Futo J, Takacs ZK. Parents' Views on Play and the Goal of Early Childhood Education in Relation to Children's Home Activity and Executive Functions: A Cross-Cultural Investigation. Front Psychol 2021; 12:646074. [PMID: 33981273 PMCID: PMC8108989 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.646074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the cross-cultural variations in parents' views on the role of play in child development and the primary purpose of preschool education from Ethiopia and Hungary. It also examined the cross-cultural variations in preschoolers' executive functions (EF), the frequency of their engagement in home activities, and the role of these activities in the development of EF skills. Participants included 266 preschoolers (Ethiopia: 139 of which 44.6% boys; M age = 63.83 months; SD = 7.68 months; Hungary: 127 of which 48% boys; M age = 62.06 months; SD = 9.37 months) with their parents (Ethiopia: 45.32% male; Mage = 36.66 years; SD = 7.14 years; Hungary: 13.18% male; M age = 37.71 years; SD = 5.97 years). The independent samples t-test showed that Ethiopian parents view fostering academic skills for preschooler significantly more important than their Hungarian counterparts do. We also found that while Ethiopian parents hold the belief that academic and cognitive development is the major purpose of preschool education, Hungarian prioritize social-emotional development and entertainment. Additionally, preschoolers in Ethiopia were reported to engage in academic and arts and crafts activities after preschool significantly more frequently than their Hungarian counterparts. On the contrary, preschoolers in Hungary were found to engage in fine-motor activities, solitary play, sports and other physical activities significantly more frequently than their Ethiopian counterparts. No significant differences were found in EF skills between preschoolers from Ethiopia and Hungary. Results from hierarchical regression analyses showed that, after accounting for age and SES, preschoolers' frequency of pretend play and their parents' play support beliefs were found to be small to medium-sized predictors of inhibitory control skills in both samples. However, children's frequency of having breakfast at home was another significant predictor in the Ethiopian sample only. The frequency of participation in arts and crafts and other fine-motor activities were found to be important predictors of preschoolers' visual-spatial working memory skills in the Ethiopian and the Hungarian samples, respectively. We also found that, after controlling for SES, parental play support was an important factor associated with preschoolers' shifting skills only in the Hungarian sample. Based on the findings, we made important conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biruk K. Metaferia
- Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Neuropsychology and Child Development Research Group, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Biruk K. Metaferia
| | - Judit Futo
- Neuropsychology and Child Development Research Group, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsofia K. Takacs
- Institute of Education, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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37
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Whedon M, Perry NB, Bell MA. Relations between frontal EEG maturation and inhibitory control in preschool in the prediction of children's early academic skills. Brain Cogn 2020; 146:105636. [PMID: 33197766 PMCID: PMC7754531 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2020.105636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Maturation of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) across the first few years of life is thought to underlie the emergence of inhibitory control (IC) abilities, which may play an important role in children's early academic success. In this growth curve modeling study (N = 364), we assessed developmental change in children's resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) activity (6-9 Hz 'alpha' power) from 10 months to 4 years and examined whether the initial levels or amount of change in frontal alpha power were associated with children's IC at age 4 and indirectly academic skills at age 6. Results indicated that greater increases in frontal alpha power across the study period were associated with better IC, and indirectly with better performance on Woodcock-Johnson tests of reading and math achievement at age 6. Similar associations between change in EEG and age 4 vocabulary were observed but did not mediate an association with academic skills. Similar analyses with posterior alpha power showed no associations with IC. Findings underscore the significance of frontal lobe maturation from infancy to early childhood for children's intellectual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Whedon
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, United States.
| | - Nicole B Perry
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, United States
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38
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McHarg G, Ribner AD, Devine RT, Hughes C. Screen Time and Executive Function in Toddlerhood: A Longitudinal Study. Front Psychol 2020; 11:570392. [PMID: 33192857 PMCID: PMC7643631 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.570392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Technology is pervasive in homes with young children. Emerging evidence that electronic screen-based media use has adverse effects on executive functions may help explain negative relations between media use and early academic skills. However, longitudinal investigations are needed to test this idea. In a sample of 193 British toddlers tracked from age 2 to 3 years, we test concurrent and predictive relations between screen use and children’s executive function. We find no concurrent association between screen use and executive function; however, screen time at age 2 is negatively associated with the development of executive functions in toddlerhood from age 2 to 3, controlling for a range of covariates including verbal ability. Implications for parenting, education, and pediatric recommendations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle McHarg
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew D Ribner
- Learning Research and Development Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Rory T Devine
- Department of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Hughes
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Patterns of growth in executive functioning during school years: Contributions of early mother-child attachment security and maternal autonomy support. J Exp Child Psychol 2020; 200:104934. [PMID: 32818844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2020.104934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Executive functioning (EF) undergoes marked developmental improvements during the early school years. Given the crucial role of EF in learning and school adjustment, it is important to document the factors that bolster the development of executive competence, especially during a period of growth. Although substantial evidence suggests that parent-child relationships relate to EF, few longitudinal studies have examined the parental antecedents of EF developmental trajectories during the school years. Accordingly, this multiyear longitudinal study (N = 102) explored the respective roles of early mother-child attachment security and maternal autonomy support in the prediction of patterns of growth in working memory, cognitive flexibility, and planning skills across Grades 2 to 4. Multilevel growth curve analyses revealed a unique positive relation between attachment security and all EF skills, whereas autonomy support was mainly independently associated with initial planning performance. These findings provide further suggestion for a global contribution of secure attachment relationships to children's executive competence and highlight the importance of supporting children's autonomy to foster the emergence of more complex EF abilities such as planning. This study also supports the relevance of considering multiple aspects of parent-child relationships to delineate how early caregiving experiences contribute to children's EF development.
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Xu C, Ellefson MR, Ng FFY, Wang Q, Hughes C. An East-West contrast in executive function: Measurement invariance of computerized tasks in school-aged children and adolescents. J Exp Child Psychol 2020; 199:104929. [PMID: 32711217 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2020.104929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Existing cross-cultural findings related to school-aged children's executive function (EF) from studies using computerized tasks highlight both an East-West contrast (East > West) and potential methodological confounds (e.g., contrasting levels of computer fluency). Capitalizing on two recent data sets, this multisite study of 1,311 children living in mainland China (n = 453; Mage = 11.89 years, SD = 0.87), Hong Kong (n = 371; Mage = 12.21 years, SD = 0.99), and the United Kingdom (n = 487; Mage = 11.91 years, SD = 0.93) tested measurement invariance of a computerized EF-task battery prior to investigating cultural contrasts in mean levels of EF efficiency scores. Our models established partial scalar invariance across sites. Latent factor means were substantially lower for British children than for their counterparts from either mainland China or Hong Kong, with a significant but smaller contrast between the latter two groups. Within the Chinese sample, self-reported computer use was unrelated to variation in children's performance on online tests of EF, indicating that peripheral effects of task modality are unlikely to explain the between-culture differences in EF task performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyi Xu
- Centre for Family Research, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3RQ, UK.
| | | | - Florrie Fei-Yin Ng
- Department of Educational Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Psychology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong
| | - Claire Hughes
- Centre for Family Research, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3RQ, UK
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Do executive functions mediate the link between socioeconomic status and numeracy skills? A cross-site comparison of Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. J Exp Child Psychol 2020; 194:104734. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2019.104734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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42
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Yu D, O'Brien Caughy M, Smith EP, Oshri A, Tresch M. Severe Poverty and Growth in Behavioral Self-Regulation: The Mediating Role of Parenting. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 68. [PMID: 34621101 DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2020.101135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined how exposure to severe poverty related to behavioral self-regulation growth during early childhood as mediated by parenting practices. Ethnic differences were tested. Data were collected across 4 waves from 359 low-income African American and Latino families. The frequency of exposure to severe poverty was indicated by how many times family income fell below 50% of the federal poverty line across 4 waves. Behavioral self-regulation was assessed when children were 3½, 6, and 7 years old (Wave 2-4), and parenting was observed when children were age 2½ years old (Wave 1). More frequent exposure to severe poverty was associated with slower behavioral self-regulation growth, and the effect was partially mediated through less sensitive and supportive parenting practices for Latino families. The mediation was not observed for African American families. Targeting the promotion of sensitive and supportive parenting practices may be an effective strategy for accelerating self-regulation development.
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Lam BYH, Raine A, Fung ALC, Gao Y, Lee TMC. Caregivers' Grit Moderates the Relationship Between Children's Executive Function and Aggression. Front Psychol 2020; 11:636. [PMID: 32373017 PMCID: PMC7186376 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies have shown that the impairment of executive function is positively related to aggression in children and adolescents. What is worth investigating is the moderator of such a relationship so that aggressive behavior can be reduced effectively in those who have executive function problems. The present study examined the association between executive function and two major subtypes of aggression (proactive and reactive aggression) and whether their caregivers' grit (perseverance) moderated such relationship. METHOD Executive function and reactive and proactive aggression were assessed in 254 children and adolescents aged 8-19 years old, and their caregivers' grit was measured. RESULTS Results show that caregivers' grit plays a significant role in moderating the relationship between children's executive function and proactive aggression after controlling for the covariates including the children's age, gender, and family income. Specifically, children's executive function became more negatively associated with proactive aggression when caregivers' grit was high while the association was positive when it was low. On the other hand, the association between children's executive function and reactive aggression did not vary across different levels of caregivers' grit. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that proactive aggression may be reduced in those who have better executive function by enhancing their caregivers' grit, which inform the design of interventions in adjunct with the current approach (e.g., executive function training) to reduce aggression in children and adolescents in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bess Y. H. Lam
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Adrian Raine
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Criminology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Annis L. C. Fung
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yu Gao
- The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- Brooklyn College, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tatia M. C. Lee
- Laboratory of Neuropsychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Laboratory of Cognitive Affective Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Institute of Clinical Neuropsychology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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44
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Cardiac vagal tone and executive functions: Moderation by physical fitness and family support. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2020.101120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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45
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McHarg G, Ribner AD, Devine RT, Hughes C. Infant screen exposure links to toddlers' inhibition, but not other EF constructs: A propensity score study. INFANCY 2020; 25:205-222. [PMID: 32749042 DOI: 10.1111/infa.12325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Technology is pervasive in homes of families with young children, despite evidence for negative associations between infant exposure to screen-based media and cognitive development that has led the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to discourage parents from exposing children under the age of 18 months to any kind of screen time (AAP, 2016). Here, we apply a propensity score matching approach to estimate relations between electronic screen-based media use in infancy and executive function in early toddlerhood. In an international sample of 416 firstborn infants, parental report of regular exposure to screen-based media at 4 months predicted poorer performance on a test of inhibition at 14 months, but was unrelated to either cognitive flexibility or working memory at 14 months. Results of this study are therefore consistent with the view that early exposure to screen-based media adversely affects the development of executive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle McHarg
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew D Ribner
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rory T Devine
- Department of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claire Hughes
- Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Chen C, Chen C, Xue G, Dong Q, Zhao L, Zhang S. Parental warmth interacts with several genes to affect executive function components: a genome-wide environment interaction study. BMC Genet 2020; 21:11. [PMID: 32019487 PMCID: PMC7001336 DOI: 10.1186/s12863-020-0819-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Executive function (EF) is vital to human beings. It has been linked to many genes and family environmental factors in separate studies, but few studies have examined the potential interactions between gene(s) and environmental factor(s). The current study explored the whole genome to identify SNPs, genes, and pathways that interacted with parental warmth (PW) on EF. Results Nine EF tasks were used to measure its three components (common EF, updating, shifting) based on the model proposed by Miyake et al. (2000). We found that rs111605473, LAMP5, SLC4A7, and LRRK1 interacted significantly with PW to affect the updating component of EF, and the GSE43955 pathway interacted significantly with PW to affect the common EF component. Conclusions The current study is the first to identify genes that interacted with PW to affect EF. Further studies are needed to reveal the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Brain Imaging and Connectomics, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuansheng Chen
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Gui Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning & IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Libo Zhao
- Department of Psychology, BeiHang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shudong Zhang
- Faculty of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China.
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Zahodne LB, Sharifian N, Manly JJ, Sumner JA, Crowe M, Wadley VG, Howard VJ, Murchland AR, Brenowitz WD, Weuve J. Life course biopsychosocial effects of retrospective childhood social support and later-life cognition. Psychol Aging 2019; 34:867-883. [PMID: 31566397 PMCID: PMC6829036 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Social support during childhood lays the foundation for social relationships throughout the life course and has been shown to predict a wide range of mental and physical health outcomes. Social support measured in late life is prospectively associated with better cognitive aging, but few studies have evaluated social support received earlier in the life course. We quantified the effects of childhood social support, reported retrospectively, on later-life cognitive trajectories and investigated biopsychosocial mechanisms underlying these associations. Latent growth curve models estimated 10-year cognitive trajectories in 8,538 participants (baseline ages 45-93; Mage = 63) in the REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) project. Independent of sociodemographics, childhood socioeconomic status, and household size, greater retrospective childhood social support was associated with better initial episodic memory, but not verbal fluency or cognitive change, in later adulthood. Associations with initial memory level were mediated by sociodemographic and psychosocial variables; specifically, those who reported greater childhood social support reported higher educational attainment and had better physical and emotional health in adulthood, which were each associated with better memory. These results provide support for broad and enduring effects of childhood social support on mental, physical, and cognitive health decades later. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Suor JH, Sturge-Apple ML, Davies PT, Jones-Gordils HR. The interplay between parenting and temperament in associations with children's executive function. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY : JFP : JOURNAL OF THE DIVISION OF FAMILY PSYCHOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION (DIVISION 43) 2019; 33:841-850. [PMID: 31328944 PMCID: PMC6776672 DOI: 10.1037/fam0000558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Guided by a domain-specific approach to parenting framework, this research examined differential associations among three domains of parenting (e.g., guided learning, reciprocity, control) and children's executive function. The second aim was examine whether child surgency and negative emotionality temperament traits moderated associations among the parenting domains and children's executive function in a manner consistent with differential susceptibility theory. The sample consisted of 160 mothers and their 5-year-old children. Results showed that guided learning was positively and uniquely associated with children's executive function, even after controlling for the other parenting and covariate variables. Child surgency only moderated the association between guided learning and children's executive function, and it was in a manner that was consistent with differential susceptibility theory. Unexpectedly, child negative emotionality selectively moderated the association between the control domain and children's executive function in alignment with the vantage sensitivity model. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Yu D, Hsu H. Mother–child verbal communication and preschoolers' inhibitory control. INFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/icd.2146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dian Yu
- Department of Human Development and Family ScienceUniversity of Georgia Athens Georgia
| | - Hui‐Chin Hsu
- Department of Human Development and Family ScienceUniversity of Georgia Athens Georgia
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Sharifian N, Zahodne LB. The Enduring Effects of Mother-Child Interactions on Episodic Memory in Adulthood. JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2019; 81:936-952. [PMID: 31937977 PMCID: PMC6959214 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the enduring effects of retrospective reports of early life mother-child interactions on psychosocial and cognitive functioning later in life. BACKGROUND Mother-child interactions have been linked to cognitive outcomes in childhood, however, little work has examined whether early life mother-child interactions have far-reaching effects on episodic memory in adulthood. Early life mother-child interactions may also influence cognitive functioning in adulthood indirectly through the development of academic competence (education attainment), social competence (marital satisfaction, social support, contact frequency), and/or depressive symptoms. METHODS Using longitudinal data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study sibling respondents (1993-2011; baseline: 29-79 years), we examined how retrospective positive mother-child interactions (PMCI) and negative mother-child interactions (NMCI) were independently associated with episodic memory. Structural equation modeling was used to model direct and indirect pathways from PMCI and NMCI to episodic memory and latent change in episodic memory. RESULTS More PMCI retrospectively reported at T1 were associated with higher T2 memory and less memory decline from T2 to T3 via higher education. Additionally, more PMCI were associated with higher T2 memory through greater marital satisfaction. Independent of these indirect effects, more PMCI and NMCI were each associated with higher T2 memory, but not memory change. CONCLUSION Mother-child interactions appeared to have an enduring effect on episodic memory in adulthood. These findings highlight the importance of taking a more integrative and lifespan perspective to assess how early life experiences affect socioemotional and cognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neika Sharifian
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI
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