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Lünnemann MKM, Van der Horst FCP, Van de Bongardt D, Steketee M. Road Blocks or Building Blocks? A Qualitative Study on Challenges and Resilience in Romantic Relationships of Youth Exposed to Family Violence. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2024; 17:245-259. [PMID: 38938934 PMCID: PMC11199443 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-023-00592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Romantic relationships are an important part of many people's lives and at least partly shaped by experiences during childhood. Youth exposed to family violence during childhood are more likely to experience difficulties in their later romantic relationships. However, a more holistic perspective on the romantic relationships of youth with a history of family violence is lacking. Using both theoretical and inductive thematic analysis, this qualitative study explored challenges as well as positive experiences within romantic relationships of youth exposed to family violence during childhood. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with 18 youth aged between 16 and 20 years, who were reported to child protection services. The narratives reflected that youth experienced challenges related to support, connection, trust, boundary setting, emotion regulation and conflict resolution. Furthermore, family violence during childhood seemed to be important in the emergence of these challenges, consistent with theoretical mechanisms described in observational learning theory and attachment theory. However, youth also described positive experiences in their romantic relationships and demonstrated an ability to learn from others (e.g., their current romantic partner) how to communicate effectively or solve problems. Therefore, with the right social or professional support, at-risk youth may be able to overcome these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. K. M. Lünnemann
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, PO Box 1738, Rotterdam, 3000 DR the Netherlands
- Verwey-Jonker Institute, Kromme Nieuwegracht 6, Utrecht, 3512 HG The Netherlands
| | | | - D. Van de Bongardt
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, PO Box 1738, Rotterdam, 3000 DR the Netherlands
| | - M. Steketee
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, PO Box 1738, Rotterdam, 3000 DR the Netherlands
- Verwey-Jonker Institute, Kromme Nieuwegracht 6, Utrecht, 3512 HG The Netherlands
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2
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Robinson JA. Editorial: Research priorities concerning formal and informal learning in low- and middle-income countries. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1391089. [PMID: 38566945 PMCID: PMC10986789 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1391089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Ann Robinson
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Gonzalez A, Jack SM, Sim A, Ratcliffe J, Dumbaugh M, Bennett T, MacMillan HL. CHAMPP4KIDS: Mixed methods study protocol to evaluate acceptability and feasibility of Parenting for Lifelong Health materials in a Canadian context. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298156. [PMID: 38452022 PMCID: PMC10919627 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents and caregivers play a key role in children's healthy development and well-being. Traditional parenting interventions promote positive parenting practices and are key to preventing child maltreatment. However, numerous barriers can limit access to programs, barriers which were further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Parenting for Lifelong Health group developed mass media and public health communication materials to promote positive caregiving behaviours on a population level. The Champions of Positive Parenting 4 Kids (CHAMPP4KIDS) study will examine the acceptability and feasibility of these materials for service providers and caregivers of children aged 2-6 years in Ontario, Canada. METHODS This study will use a convergent mixed-methods design. Consenting service providers (n = 200) and caregivers (n = 100) will complete a quantitative survey to rate, rank and give feedback on Parenting for Lifelong Health tip sheets and social media ads. Caregivers will also complete self-report scales measuring depression and anxiety. We will hold focus group discussions with a sub-sample of surveyed providers (n = 40) and caregivers (n = 25). An adapted Trials of Improved Practices methodology will explore caregiver perspectives after implementing the tip sheets. Primary quantitative outcomes will be descriptive statistics of rankings, Likert Scale scores and descriptive analysis of caregiver depression and anxiety. Qualitative data will be analyzed using Rapid Qualitative Inquiry and triangulated through a convergent coding matrix. DISCUSSION The Parenting for Lifelong Health COVID-19 parenting materials offer succinct, engaging parenting information in a mass media format that addresses some challenges associated with accessing in-person programming. The CHAMPP4KIDS study will provide mixed methods insights on the materials' acceptability and feasibility from different groups in a Canadian context, with a focus on marginalized families. The use of Trials of Improved Practices methodology could prove a useful tool for participant-led adaptation of existing parenting, early childhood development and other health intervention materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan M. Jack
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amanda Sim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenna Ratcliffe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mari Dumbaugh
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Teresa Bennett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harriet L. MacMillan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Miller AC, Flood D, Tschida S, Douglas K, Rohloff P. Assessing child development scores among minority and Indigenous language versus dominant language speakers: a cross-sectional analysis of national Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys. Lancet Glob Health 2024; 12:e90-e99. [PMID: 37956682 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple studies have highlighted the inequities minority and Indigenous children face when accessing health care. Health and wellbeing are positively impacted when Indigenous children are educated and receive care in their maternal language. However, less is known about the association between minority or Indigenous language use and child development risks and outcomes. In this study, we provide global estimates of development risks and assess the associations between minority or Indigenous language status and early child development using the ten-item Early Child Development Index (ECDI), a tool widely used for global population assessments in children aged 3-4 years. METHODS We did a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from 65 UNICEF Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) containing the ECDI from 2009-19 (waves 4-6). We included individual-level data for children aged 2-4 years (23-60 months) from datasets with ECDI modules, for surveys that captured the language of the respondent, interview, or head of household. The Expanded Graded Intergenerational Disruption Scale was used to classify household languages as dominant versus minority or Indigenous at the country level. Our primary outcome was on-track overall development, defined per UNICEF's guidelines as development being on track for at least three of the four ECDI domains (literacy-numeracy, learning, physical, and socioemotional). We performed logistic regression of pooled, weighted ECDI scores, aggregated by language status and adjusting for the covariables of child sex, child nutritional status (stunting), household wealth, maternal education, developmental support by an adult caregiver, and country-level early child education proportion. Regression analyses were done for all children aged 3-4 years with ECDI results, and separately for children with functional disabilities and ECDI results. FINDINGS 65 MICS datasets were included. 186 393 children aged 3-4 years had ECDI and language data, corresponding to an estimated represented population of 34 714 992 individuals. Estimated prevalence of on-track overall development as measured by ECDI scores was 65·7% (95% CI 64·2-67·2) for children from a minority or Indigenous language-speaking household, and 76·6% (75·7-77·4) for those from a dominant language-speaking household. After adjustment, dominant language status was associated with increased odds of on-track overall development (adjusted OR 1·54, 95% CI 1·40-1·71), which appeared to be largely driven by significantly increased odds of on-track development in the literacy-numeracy and socioemotional domains. For the represented population aged 2-4 years (n=11 465 601), the estimated prevalence of family-reported functional disability was 3·6% (95% CI 3·0-4·4). For the represented population aged 3-4 years with a functional disability (n=292 691), language status was not associated with on-track overall development (adjusted OR 1·02, 95% CI 0·43-2·45). INTERPRETATION In a global dataset, children speaking a minority or Indigenous language were less likely to have on-track ECDI scores than those speaking a dominant language. Given the strong positive benefits of speaking an Indigenous language on the health and development of Indigenous children, this disparity is likely to reflect the sociolinguistic marginalisation faced by speakers of minority or Indigenous languages as well as differences in the performance of ECDI in these languages. Global efforts should consider performance of measures and monitor developmental data disaggregated by language status to stimulate efforts to address this disparity. FUNDING None. TRANSLATIONS For the Spanish, Kaqchikel and K'iche' translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann C Miller
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - David Flood
- Center for Indigenous Health Research, Wuqu' Kawoq - Maya Health Alliance, Tecpán, Guatemala; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Scott Tschida
- Center for Indigenous Health Research, Wuqu' Kawoq - Maya Health Alliance, Tecpán, Guatemala
| | | | - Peter Rohloff
- Center for Indigenous Health Research, Wuqu' Kawoq - Maya Health Alliance, Tecpán, Guatemala; Department of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston MA, USA
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Tönsing K, Dada S. Teaching South African center-based caregivers to implement augmentative and alternative communication strategies. Augment Altern Commun 2023:1-11. [PMID: 38146931 DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2023.2294741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In South Africa, many children with extensive support needs-including children who require AAC-are accommodated in care centers rather than the public schooling system. Caregivers employed at these centers need training in order to support children's communication using augmentative and alternative methods. A total of 29 center-based caregivers took part in this study. A single group pretest-posttest design was used to evaluate the effect of a 5-day training workshop on caregivers' ability to demonstrate and implement five AAC strategies. The effect of the workshop on caregivers' perceptions of their own skills as well as the social validity of the training were also evaluated. Results suggest that the workshop effectively taught caregivers to demonstrate the skills in a simulated roleplay situation. A proportion of caregivers also supplied video footage after the workshop that suggests the ability to implement the strategies in the care center contexts. Caregivers also perceived their own skills to have improved post workshop, and evaluated the training positively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Tönsing
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Shakila Dada
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Brandl E, Emmott EH, Mace R. Development of teaching in ni-Vanuatu children. Child Dev 2023; 94:1713-1729. [PMID: 37315123 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Teaching is an important mechanism of social learning. In industrialized societies, 3-year-olds tend to teach through demonstrations and short commands, while 5-year-olds use more verbal communication and abstract explanations. However, it remains unclear whether this generalizes to other cultures. This study presents results from a peer teaching game with 55 Melanesian children (4.7-11.4 years, 24 female) conducted in Vanuatu in 2019. Up to age 8, most participants taught through a participatory approach, emphasizing learning-by-doing, demonstrations, and short commands (57.1% of children aged 4-6 and 57.9% of children aged 7-8). Contrary to Western findings, abstract verbal communication only became common in children aged 9-11 (63.6%), suggesting that the ontogeny of teaching is shaped by the socio-cultural environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Brandl
- Lise Meitner Research Group BirthRites, Department of Human Behavior, Ecology and Culture, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Emily H Emmott
- Department of Anthropology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ruth Mace
- Department of Anthropology, University College London, London, UK
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7
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Dumbaugh M, Belem M, Kousse S, Ouoba P, Sankoudouma A, Tchibozo AM, Fearon P, Hollowell J, Hill Z. 'Children awaken by playing ': a qualitative exploration of caregivers' norms, beliefs and practices related to young children's learning and early childhood development in rural Burkina Faso. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075675. [PMID: 37899153 PMCID: PMC10619012 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence suggests that responsive caregiving and early learning activities positively impact developmental outcomes, with positive effects throughout the life course. Early childhood development interventions should align with local values, beliefs and resources but there has been little research of caregiver beliefs and perspectives on development and learning, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This qualitative study explored norms, beliefs, practices and aspirations around child development of caregivers of young children in rural Burkina Faso. METHODS We conducted 32 in-depth interviews with mothers and fathers of young children and 24 focus group discussions with mothers, fathers and grandmothers, which included trying behaviours and reporting on experiences. The research informed the development of Scaling Up Nurturing Care, a Radio Intervention to Stimulate Early Childhood Development (SUNRISE), an early child development radio intervention. RESULTS Caregivers described a process of 'awakening', through which children become aware of themselves and the world around them.Perceptions of the timing of awakening varied, but the ability to learn was thought to increase as children became older and more awake. Consequently, talking and playing with babies and younger children were perceived to have little developmental impact. Caregivers said children's interactions with them, alongside God-given intelligence, was believed to impact later behaviour and development. Caregivers felt their role in helping their children achieve later in life was to pay for education, save money, provide advice and be good role models. Interaction and learning activities were not specifically mentioned. Caregivers who trialled interaction and learning activities reported positive experiences for themselves and their child, but interactions were often caregiver led and directive and play was often physical. Key barriers to carrying out the behaviours were poverty and a lack of time. CONCLUSIONS Exploring early childhood beliefs and practices can reveal important sociocultural beliefs which, if incorporated into programme planning and implementation, could help achieve more impactful, acceptable and equitable programmes. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05335395.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Dumbaugh
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Insight Impact Consulting, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mireille Belem
- Research, Develpment Media International, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Sylvain Kousse
- Research, Develpment Media International, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Patricia Ouoba
- Research, Develpment Media International, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Adama Sankoudouma
- Innovations for Poverty Action Francophone West Africa, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Pasco Fearon
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Family Research, Department of Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Z Hill
- Institute for Global Health, University College London Research Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, London, UK
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Zeanah PD, Steier A, Lim I, Korfmacher J, Zeanah CH. Current approaches and future directions for addressing ethics in infant and early childhood mental health. Infant Ment Health J 2023; 44:625-637. [PMID: 37483087 DOI: 10.1002/imhj.22077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we consider whether the field of infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) needs its own code of ethics. We begin by describing unique features of infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) and the diverse strategies that the field has developed to address complex clinical dilemmas, among them workforce development, clinical supports, policy statements, and statements of ethical values. Because of the field's interdisciplinary nature, we also consider how various contributing professions and organizations address ethical issues. While these are important resources that can inform ethical decision-making, we identify some of the limitations of the current approaches. We argue that it is time for the field of IECMH to take an intentional, systematic approach to directly address the complex and unique ethical dilemmas faced by infant and early childhood mental health practitioners, and we grapple with some of the challenges developing such a code might entail. We suggest several avenues for better understanding the scope of ethical issues and ethical decision-making processes in IECMH that could be used to support developing an ethics code that is responsive to the unique and challenging world of infant and early childhood mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula D Zeanah
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Izaak Lim
- Early in Life Mental Health Service, Monash Health and the Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jon Korfmacher
- Chapin Hall Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Charles H Zeanah
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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Alam M, Hickie IB, Poulsen A, Ekambareshwar M, Loblay V, Crouse J, Hindmarsh G, Song YJC, Yoon A, Cha G, Wilson C, Sweeney-Nash M, Troy J, LaMonica HM. Parenting app to support socio-emotional and cognitive development in early childhood: iterative codesign learnings from nine low-income and middle-income countries. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071232. [PMID: 37192801 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many children in low-income and middle-income countries are disadvantaged in achieving early developmental potential in childhood as they lack the necessary support from their surroundings, including from parents and caregivers. Digital technologies, such as smartphone apps, coupled with iterative codesign to engage end-users in the technology-delivered content development stages, can help overcome gaps in early child development (ECD). We describe the iterative codesign and quality improvement process that informs the development of content for the Thrive by Five International Program, localised for nine countries in Asia and Africa. DESIGN Between 2021 and 2022, an average of six codesign workshops in each country were conducted in Afghanistan, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya and Namibia.ParticipantsA total of 174 parents and caregivers and 58 in-country subject matter experts participated and provided feedback to refine and inform the cultural appropriateness of the Thrive by Five app and its content. Detailed notes from the workshops and written feedback were coded and analysed using established thematic techniques. RESULTS Four themes emerged from the codesign workshops: local realities, barriers to positive parenting, child development and lessons learnt about the cultural context. These themes, as well as various subthemes, informed content development and refinement. For example, childrearing activities were requested and developed to promote inclusion of families from diverse backgrounds, encourage best parenting practices, increase engagement of fathers in ECD, address parents' mental well-being, educate children about cultural values and help bereaved children with grief and loss. Also, content that did not align with the laws or culture of any country were removed. CONCLUSIONS The iterative codesign process informed the development of a culturally relevant app for parents and caregivers of children in the early years. Further evaluation is required to assess user experience and impact in real world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafruha Alam
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ian B Hickie
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam Poulsen
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Victoria Loblay
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jacob Crouse
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gabrielle Hindmarsh
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yun J C Song
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam Yoon
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Grace Cha
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chloe Wilson
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Jakelin Troy
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Haley M LaMonica
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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10
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Brandl E, Mace R, Heyes C. The cultural evolution of teaching. EVOLUTIONARY HUMAN SCIENCES 2023; 5:e14. [PMID: 37587942 PMCID: PMC10426124 DOI: 10.1017/ehs.2023.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Teaching is an important process of cultural transmission. Some have argued that human teaching is a cognitive instinct - a form of 'natural cognition' centred on mindreading, shaped by genetic evolution for the education of juveniles, and with a normative developmental trajectory driven by the unfolding of a genetically inherited predisposition to teach. Here, we argue instead that human teaching is a culturally evolved trait that exhibits characteristics of a cognitive gadget. Children learn to teach by participating in teaching interactions with socialising agents, which shape their own teaching practices. This process hijacks psychological mechanisms involved in prosociality and a range of domain-general cognitive abilities, such as reinforcement learning and executive function, but not a suite of cognitive adaptations specifically for teaching. Four lines of evidence converge on this hypothesis. The first, based on psychological experiments in industrialised societies, indicates that domain-general cognitive processes are important for teaching. The second and third lines, based on naturalistic and experimental research in small-scale societies, indicate marked cross-cultural variation in mature teaching practice and in the ontogeny of teaching among children. The fourth line indicates that teaching has been subject to cumulative cultural evolution, i.e. the gradual accumulation of functional changes across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Brandl
- Lise Meitner Research Group BirthRites, Department of Human Behavior, Ecology and Culture, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig 04103, Germany
| | - Ruth Mace
- Department of Anthropology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Cecilia Heyes
- All Souls College and Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 4AL, UK
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11
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Milosavljevic B, Cook CJ, Fadera T, Ghillia G, Howard SJ, Makaula H, Mbye E, McCann S, Merkley R, Mshudulu M, Saidykhan M, Touray E, Tshetu N, Elwell C, Moore SE, Scerif G, Draper CE, Lloyd-Fox S. Executive functioning skills and their environmental predictors among pre-school aged children in South Africa and The Gambia. Dev Sci 2023:e13407. [PMID: 37128134 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13407] [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] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Executive functions (EFs) in early childhood are predictors of later developmental outcomes and school readiness. Much of the research on EFs and their psychosocial correlates has been conducted in high-income, minority world countries, which represent a small and biased portion of children globally. The aim of this study is to examine EFs among children aged 3-5 years in two African countries, South Africa (SA) and The Gambia (GM), and to explore shared and distinct predictors of EFs in these settings. The SA sample (N = 243, 51.9% female) was recruited from low-income communities within the Cape Town Metropolitan area. In GM, participants (N = 171, 49.7% female) were recruited from the rural West Kiang region. EFs, working memory (WM), inhibitory control (IC) and cognitive flexibility (CF), were measured using tablet-based tasks. Associations between EF task performance and indicators of socioeconomic status (household assets, caregiver education) and family enrichment factors (enrichment activities, diversity of caregivers) were assessed. Participants in SA scored higher on all EF tasks, but children in both sites predominantly scored within the expected range for their age. There were no associations between EFs and household or familial variables in SA, except for a trend-level association between caregiver education and CF. Patterns were similar in GM, where there was a trend-level association between WM and enrichment activities but no other relationships. We challenge the postulation that children in low-income settings have poorer EFs, simply due to lower socioeconomic status, but highlight the need to identify predictors of EFs in diverse, global settings. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Assessed Executive Functioning (EF) skills and their psychosocial predictors among pre-school aged children (aged 3-5 years) in two African settings (The Gambia and South Africa). On average, children within each setting performed within the expected range for their age, although children in South Africa had higher scores across tasks. There was little evidence of any association between socioeconomic variables and EFs in either site. Enrichment activities were marginally associated with better working memory in The Gambia, and caregiver education with cognitive flexibility in South Africa, both associations were trend-level significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bosiljka Milosavljevic
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
| | - 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
| | - Tijan Fadera
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keneba, The Gambia
| | - Giulia Ghillia
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Steven J Howard
- Early Start and School of Education, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 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
| | - Ebrima Mbye
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keneba, The Gambia
| | - Samantha McCann
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - 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
| | - Mariama Saidykhan
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keneba, The Gambia
| | - Ebou Touray
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keneba, The Gambia
| | - 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
| | - Clare Elwell
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie E Moore
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gaia Scerif
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - 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
| | - Sarah Lloyd-Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
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12
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Maciel L, Gomis-Pomares A, Day C, Basto-Pereira M. Cross-cultural adaptability of parenting interventions designed for childhood behavior problems: A meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 102:102274. [PMID: 37018934 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
The dissemination of parenting interventions is one of the advised approaches to globally counteract childhood behavior problems, delinquency, and future criminal careers. Many of these interventions are developed in Anglosphere countries and transported to other contexts with distinct cultural backgrounds. However, there are no meta-analyses evaluating the overall effectiveness of these Anglosphere parenting programs in non-Anglosphere settings. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the effectiveness of parenting interventions developed in Anglosphere countries when transported to non-Anglosphere countries, as well as compare effectiveness levels between Anglosphere and non-Anglosphere trials; and analyze the impact of research and contextual factors in the dissemination of these interventions. Parenting interventions were included if they were: created in an Anglosphere setting; tested in non-Anglosphere countries; focused on reducing childhood behavioral problems; designed for children ranging from two to 12 years old; and tested in an experimental randomized trial. A random-effects model was selected for our meta-analysis. Standardized mean differences, confidence intervals and prediction intervals were also computed. Twenty studies were included, and results suggest that parenting interventions designed for childhood behavior problems can be transported to non-Anglosphere countries and potentially maintain effectiveness. This study is a relevant contribution to the evidence of cross-cultural transportability of parenting interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maciel
- William James Center for Research, Ispa-Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Aitana Gomis-Pomares
- Developmental Psychology Department, Universitat Jaume I, Avinguda de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n, 12006 Castelló de la Plana, Castelló, Spain.
| | - Crispin Day
- Department of Psychology, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service Research Unit, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, and Centre for Parent and Child Support, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Michael Rutter Centre, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, United Kingdom.
| | - Miguel Basto-Pereira
- William James Center for Research, Ispa-Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco 34, 1149-041 Lisbon, Portugal.
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13
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Forbes SH, Aneja P, Guest O. The myth of normative development. INFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/icd.2393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Prerna Aneja
- School of Psychology University of East Anglia Norwich UK
| | - Olivia Guest
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour Radboud University Nijmegen The Netherlands
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14
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LaMonica HM, Crouse JJ, Song YJC, Alam M, Ekambareshwar M, Loblay V, Yoon A, Cha G, Wilson C, Sweeney-Nash M, Foo N, Teo M, Perhirin M, Troy J, Hickie IB. Developing a Parenting App to Support Young Children’s Socioemotional and Cognitive Development in Culturally Diverse Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Protocol for a Co-design Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e39225. [DOI: 10.2196/39225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Digital technologies are widely recognized for their equalizing effect, improving access to affordable health care regardless of gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or geographic region. The Thrive by Five app is designed to promote positive interactions between children and their parents, extended family, and trusted members of the community to support socioemotional and cognitive development in the first 5 years of life and to strengthen connections to culture and community.
Objective
This paper aims to describe the iterative co-design process that underpins the development and refinement of Thrive by Five’s features, functions, and content. Minderoo Foundation commissioned this work as a quality improvement activity to support an engaging user experience and inform the development of culturally appropriate and relevant content for parents and caregivers in each country where the app is implemented.
Methods
The app content, referred to as Collective Actions, comprises “The Why,” that presents scientific principles that underpin socioemotional and cognitive development in early childhood. The scientific information is coupled with childrearing activities for parents, extended family, and members of the community to engage in with the children to support their healthy development and to promote positive connections between parents, families, and communities and these young children. Importantly, the initial content is designed and iteratively refined in collaboration with a subject matter expert group from each country (ie, alpha testing). This content is then configured into the app (either a beta version or localized version) for testing (ie, beta testing) by local parents and caregivers as well as experts who are invited to provide their feedback and suggestions for improvements in app content, features, and functions via a brief web-based survey and a series of co-design workshops. The quantitative survey data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, whereas the analysis of qualitative data from the workshops will follow established thematic techniques.
Results
To date, the co-design protocol has been completed with subject matter experts, parents, and caregivers from 9 countries, with the first results expected to be published by early 2023. The protocol will be implemented serially in the remaining 21 countries.
Conclusions
Mobile technologies are the primary means of internet connection in many countries worldwide, which underscores the potential for mobile health programs to improve access to valuable, evidence-based, and previously unavailable parenting information. However, for maximum impact, it is critically important to ensure that mobile health programs are designed in collaboration with the target audience to support the alignment of content with parents’ cultural values and traditions and its relevance to their needs and circumstances.
International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)
DERR1-10.2196/39225
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15
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Tuli M, Chaudhary N, Dalal J. Socio-cultural Images of Motherhood: Individual Variations of a Collective Construct. HUMAN ARENAS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42087-022-00310-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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16
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Romski MA, Sevcik RA, King M, DeLeo G, Branum‐Martin L, Bornman J. Using a self‐guided app to provide communication strategies for caregivers of young children with developmental disorders: A pilot investigation. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Romski
- Department of Communication Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia USA
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Department of Psychology Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Rose A. Sevcik
- Department of Psychology Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Marika King
- Department of Psychology Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Gianluca DeLeo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Augusta University Augusta Georgia USA
| | - Lee Branum‐Martin
- Department of Psychology Georgia State University Atlanta Georgia USA
| | - Juan Bornman
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
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17
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Cuartas J, Baker-Henningham H, Cepeda A, Rey-Guerra C. The Apapacho Violence Prevention Parenting Program: Conceptual Foundations and Pathways to Scale. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148582. [PMID: 35886432 PMCID: PMC9325014 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Violence against children (VAC) is a major global issue with long-lasting negative consequences on individuals and societies. The present study presents a review of the literature on drivers of VAC and the core components of evidence-based violence prevention programs. Moreover, it analyzes the existing services and social infrastructure in Colombia to rigorously inform the design of the Apapacho violence prevention parenting program for families with children younger than five targeted toward Colombia. Findings indicate that (1) VAC in Colombia is a multidimensional issue with roots at the individual, family, community, and society levels, (2) evidence-based violence prevention programs share a common set of content and delivery strategies that could inform the components of the Apapacho program, and (3) there is an urgent need for scalable and flexible violence prevention programs for families with young children in Colombia. Considering existing evidence, the Apapacho violence prevention parenting program will be designed using ecological, developmental, and neuroscience-informed perspectives. This article concludes by presenting the initial components of the theory of change and discussing future directions for the design of the Apapacho program and other violence prevention interventions in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Cuartas
- Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
- Correspondence:
| | - Helen Baker-Henningham
- School of Psychology, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DG, UK;
- Caribbean Institute for Health Research, University of the West Indies, Kingston BB11000, Jamaica
| | - Andrés Cepeda
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Catalina Rey-Guerra
- Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College, Chesnut Hill, MA 02467, USA;
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18
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Wight D, Sekiwunga R, Namutebi C, Zalwango F, Siu GE. A Ugandan Parenting Programme to Prevent Gender-Based Violence: Description and Formative Evaluation. RESEARCH ON SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE 2022; 32:448-464. [PMID: 35431527 PMCID: PMC7612614 DOI: 10.1177/10497315211056246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: To develop a culturally-sensitive intervention for the early prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) in Uganda. Methods: Programme design followed the 6SQuID model of intervention development and multi-sectorial advice. A formative evaluation was conducted in two communities with six groups and 138 participants. Findings: Four familial predictors of GBV were identified as potentially malleable: poor parent-child attachment, harsh parenting, inequitable gendered socialization and parental conflict. A community-based parenting programme was developed to address them. Its programme theory incorporates Attachment Theory, the concept that positive behavioural control develops emotional control, and Social Learning Theory. Its rationale, structure and content are presented using the TIDieR checklist. A formative evaluation showed the programme to be widely acceptable, culturally appropriate, and perceived to be effective, but also identified challenges. Conclusion: The careful development of this community-based parenting programme shows promise for the early prevention of GBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Wight
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Richard Sekiwunga
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Carol Namutebi
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Godfrey E. Siu
- Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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19
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Lansford JE. Annual Research Review: Cross-cultural similarities and differences in parenting. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:466-479. [PMID: 34763373 PMCID: PMC8940605 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews contemporary research on cross-cultural similarities and differences in parenting. The article begins by providing a definition of culture and how both parenting and culture can change over historical time. The article then presents some classic theoretical frameworks for understanding culture and parenting before considering why parenting may be similar across cultures and why parenting may be different across cultures. The article next turns to a review of cross-cultural similarities and differences in several aspects of parenting, including physical caregiving, cognitive stimulation, warmth and acceptance, control and monitoring, and discipline. Cultural normativeness and beliefs on the legitimacy of parental authority are then considered as potential moderators that contribute to cross-cultural similarities and differences in relations between parenting and child outcomes. The article then considers implications for parenting interventions and laws and policies related to parenting. Finally, the article suggests directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Lansford
- Duke University, Center for Child and Family Policy, Box 90545, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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20
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Muttiah N, Gormley J, Drager KDR. A scoping review of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) interventions in Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Augment Altern Commun 2022; 38:123-134. [PMID: 35289193 DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2022.2046854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, a small number of studies discuss augmentative and alternative (AAC) interventions in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The primary purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the current evidence base on communication-based interventions and partner training in LMICs, to explore and identify gaps in the AAC evidence base and guide future research. A total of 18 studies were identified. The results revealed many positive outcomes arising from AAC interventions, including increased communication, improved participation, increased knowledge about communication, and increased use of partner communication strategies, thus adding to the evidence base that AAC can be successfully implemented in LMICs. However, these studies did not broadly represent most LMICs and there were only a handful of indirect intervention studies training communication partners. To this end, there is an urgent need to expand the level of AAC intervention research conducted in LMICs in order to better serve individuals with complex communication needs living in these countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimisha Muttiah
- Department of Disability Studies, The University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Jessica Gormley
- Department of Speech-Language Pathology, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kathryn D R Drager
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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21
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Michelet A. Shared secrecy: teasing, attachment, and children's emotional management in rural southern Mongolia. JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL ANTHROPOLOGICAL INSTITUTE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/1467-9655.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aude Michelet
- Laboratoire d'Anthropologie Sociale 52 rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005 Paris France
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22
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Smythe T, Almasri NA, Moreno Angarita M, Berman BD, Kraus de Camargo O, Hadders-Algra M, Lynch P, Samms-Vaughan M, Olusanya BO. The Role of Parenting Interventions in Optimizing School Readiness for Children With Disabilities in Low and Middle Income Settings. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:927678. [PMID: 35837237 PMCID: PMC9274111 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.927678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Smythe
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Tracey Smythe
| | - Nihad A. Almasri
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Marisol Moreno Angarita
- Research Group on Disability, Policies and Social Justice, School of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Brad D. Berman
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Olaf Kraus de Camargo
- CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Mijna Hadders-Algra
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Paediatrics, Institute of Developmental Neurology, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Paul Lynch
- School of Education, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Maureen Samms-Vaughan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health, University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Kingston, Jamaica
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23
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Srinivasan S, Patel S. Efficacy of a novel augmentative and alternative communication system in promoting requesting skills in young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in India: A pilot study. AUTISM & DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENTS 2022; 7:23969415221120749. [PMID: 36382077 PMCID: PMC9620693 DOI: 10.1177/23969415221120749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Background & aims: The study assessed the efficacy of a novel, child-friendly, socio-culturally sensitive, icon-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system called Jellow Communicator, in teaching requesting skills to young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a special school in Mumbai, India. Jellow is a comprehensive AAC system with a lexicon and pictorial library designed using a participatory, user-centric design process. The content of Jellow has been developed bearing in mind the socio-cultural and linguistic diversity of India. Jellow is available in low-tech (flashcards, booklet) and high-tech (Android and iOS app and desktop application) versions. Methods: The quasi-experimental longitudinal study involved seventeen 3.5-12-year-old children with ASD with communication challenges. Children were taught to use the Jellow AAC system to request for preferred items, as part of their regular speech therapy sessions. Each child received one-on-one training sessions with a licensed speech therapist twice a week over a 3-month duration, with each session lasting around 20-30 min. A systematic training protocol adapted from the original Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was developed to train children to use the Jellow system, progressing from flashcards to the app version of Jellow. Behavioral training strategies such as modeling, least-to-most prompting, differential reinforcement, and behavior chain interruption were used to facilitate requesting behaviors. The speech therapist assessed children's developmental level across multiple domains at pretest and posttest. We coded 3 videos per child, i.e., one early, one mid, and one late training session each, to assess changes in children's stage of communication, spontaneous requesting abilities, level of attention during training trials, and average time to completion for requesting trials. In addition, caregivers filled out questionnaires to assess training-related changes in children's adaptive functioning levels as well as the psychosocial impact of the Jellow AAC system on children's quality of life. Results: Children significantly improved their stage of communication, and a majority of children transitioned from flashcards to using the Jellow app to request for preferred items. Children also increased the proportion of spontaneous requests over the course of training. Caregivers reported a positive perceived psychosocial impact of the Jellow AAC system on their child's self-esteem, adaptability, and competence. Conclusions: The findings from our pilot study support the use of the novel, socio-culturally adapted, Jellow Communicator AAC system for teaching requesting skills to young children with ASD who use multiple communication modalities. Future studies should replicate our findings with a larger group of participants using a randomized controlled trial design. Implications: This is the first experimental study to systematically assess the effects of an indigenously-developed comprehensive AAC system adapted to the sociocultural and linguistic landscape of India. Our study results provide support for the use of the cost-effective Jellow Communicator AAC system in facilitating requesting skills in children with ASD who use multiple communication modalities. Clinicians can use low-tech and high-tech versions of Jellow to promote communication skills in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudha Srinivasan
- Sudha Srinivasan, Physical Therapy Program,
Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, 3107 Horsebarn Hill Road,
U-4137, Storrs, CT-06269, USA.
| | - Siddhi Patel
- Department of Audiology & Speech Therapy,
Topiwala National Medical College & BYL Nair Charitable Hospital,
Mumbai, India
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24
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Scheidecker G, Oppong S, Chaudhary N, Keller H. How overstated scientific claims undermine ethical principles in parenting interventions. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-007323. [PMID: 34593514 PMCID: PMC8487171 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Scheidecker
- Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Seth Oppong
- Department of Psychology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Nandita Chaudhary
- Human Development and Childhood Studies, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Heidi Keller
- Department of Human Sciences, Osnabrück University, Osnabrück, Germany
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25
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Weber AM, Diop Y, Gillespie D, Ratsifandrihamanana L, Darmstadt GL. Africa is not a museum: the ethics of encouraging new parenting practices in rural communities in low-income and middle-income countries. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e006218. [PMID: 34266849 PMCID: PMC8286753 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Nurturing Care Framework for Early Childhood Development urges stakeholders to implement strategies that help children worldwide achieve their developmental potential. Related programmes range from the WHO's and UNICEF's Care for Child Development intervention, implemented in 19 countries, to locally developed programmes, such as non-governmental organisation Tostan's Reinforcement of Parental Practices in Senegal. However, some researchers argue that these programmes are unethical as they impose caregiving practices and values from high-income countries (HICs) on low-income communities, failing to consider local culture, communities' goals for their children and generalisability of scientific findings from HICs. We explore these criticisms within a public health framework, applying principles of beneficence, autonomy and justice to the arguments. To facilitate the change communities themselves desire for their children, we recommend that practitioners codevelop programmes and cooperate with communities in implementation to harness local beliefs and customs and promote evidence-based and locally adapted practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Weber
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Yatma Diop
- Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Diane Gillespie
- Emeritus, Community Psychology, University of Washington, Bothell, Washington, USA
| | | | - Gary L Darmstadt
- Global Center for Gender Equality, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Childhood Teaching and Learning among Savanna Pumé Hunter-Gatherers. HUMAN NATURE-AN INTERDISCIPLINARY BIOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE 2021; 32:87-114. [DOI: 10.1007/s12110-021-09392-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Maynard A, Chaudhary N. Human Development at the Intersection of Culture and Globalization: Towards a More Inclusive Future. Hum Dev 2021. [DOI: 10.1159/000513046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There is a long history of studies of human development in different cultural groups, but studies of development that explicitly take globalization into account are more recent. Cultural practices change, but cultures have often been considered static. Studying developmental change in changing societies in dynamic global settings presents challenges for researchers. It also presents opportunities to clarify content and processes in research. For such a clarification, it is compulsory to understand how local and global phenomena have been framed in the discourse of human development, and the potential outcomes of this positioning on people’s lives. In this article we lay out five key practices to guide researchers who wish to study culture and development in a globalizing world: engaging diverse groups of people within and across societies, acknowledging multiple pathways of development, attention to the cultural context, using mixed methods, and designing sustainable and relevant interventions.
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Yrttiaho S, Bruwer B, Zar HJ, Donald KA, Malcolm-Smith S, Ginton L, Hoffman N, Vuong E, Niehaus D, Leppänen JM, Stein DJ. Pupillary and Attentional Responses to Infant Facial Expressions in Mothers Across Socioeconomic Variations. Child Dev 2020; 92:e236-e251. [PMID: 33369736 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Maternal responses to infant facial expressions were examined in two socioeconomically diverse samples of South African mothers (Study I, N = 111; and Study II, N = 214; age: 17-44 years) using pupil and gaze tracking. Study I showed increased pupil response to infant distress expressions in groups recruited from private as compared to public maternity clinics, possibly reflecting underlying differences in socioeconomic status (SES) across the groups. Study II, sampling uniformly low-SES neighborhoods, found increased pupil dilation and faster orientation to expressions of infant distress, but only in the highest income group. These results are consistent with maternal physiological and attentional sensitivity to infant distress cues but challenge the universality of this sensitivity across socioeconomic diversity.
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Chaudhary N. Can Globalization Help in Reimagining the Developmental Sciences? Finding Balance between Global Science and Local Reality. Hum Dev 2020. [DOI: 10.1159/000512387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Social changes and technological advancement have profoundly impacted the human condition, and the former world order has gradually become obsolete as domination and imperialism are no longer justifiable. In the social and developmental sciences, such a shift implies the expansion of theory, methods, and application to embrace diversity as a fundamental property of being human. However, a bulk of the research draws from limited samples and circumscribed methods, largely excluding culture from conversations about human development. There is urgent need to find balance between global science and local reality where social justice, sustainability, and inclusion find a central place in the play between unity and diversity. Recent events have further highlighted the importance of democratic principles, multidisciplinary approaches, and international collaboration. Globalization cannot be undone, but it can be fruitfully exploited to reimagine the developmental sciences to embrace diversity and pluralism. Cultural psychology as a discipline offers a productive way forward.
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Bornman J, Romski M, King M, Madima V, Sevcik RA. Supporting Early Communication Skills of Children with Developmental Disorders in South Africa: Caregiver and Clinician Perspectives about Mobile Health Applications. INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN 2020; 33:313-331. [PMID: 34017156 PMCID: PMC8130561 DOI: 10.1097/iyc.0000000000000177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Using a mobile health application (i.e. app) to empower primary caregivers of young children with developmental disorders in low- and middle-income countries is opening up new avenues for early childhood intervention. Thirteen caregivers and ten speech-language pathologists participated in three focus groups to explore their perspectives about the potential benefits and suitability of a mobile health app as part of intervention, its features, the likelihood of using and recommending it, as well as potential pitfalls to be avoided. Both participant groups were generally positive, although there was little overlap between their responses. Caregivers generally focused on increased knowledge and skills (of all family members), as well as on empowerment and reduced costs. Speech-language pathologists on the other hand focused on how current service delivery would be enriched by increasing the dosage of therapy and enhancing parental cooperation. They also expected that the reach of service delivery would be expanded as more children and caregivers could potentially benefit. Although technology (i.e. mobile apps) could open up new possibilities for service delivery in this population, the perspectives of all stakeholder groups should be considered to ensure successful adoption of such technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Bornman
- Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication; University of Pretoria, Pretoria; South Africa
| | - MaryAnn Romski
- Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia USA and Extraordinary Professor Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication; University of Pretoria, Pretoria; South Africa
| | - Marika King
- Ms, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; now at Utah State University, Logan, Utah
| | - Vuledzani Madima
- Ms, Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication; University of Pretoria, Pretoria; South Africa
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Masiran R, Ibrahim N, Awang H, Lim PY. Improving multicultural parenting program for children with emotional and behavioral problems: An integrated review. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 51:101851. [PMID: 31711780 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2019.101851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Children with emotional and behavioral problems are often managed using medications or behavioral therapy, but in some countries, there is no structured parenting intervention to equip parents from different cultural backgrounds with adequate parenting skills to help these children. This paper aims to synthesize key findings from previous research on multicultural parenting programs and produce a comprehensive integrated view by looking into three separate themes: effective multicultural parenting programs, ethnocultural groups and cultural adaptation process. Literature search through Scopus and Google Scholar from 1999 to 2019 was conducted using the terms "effective parenting program", "effective parenting intervention", "effective multicultural parenting program", "effective multicultural parenting intervention", "multicultural parenting program", "multicultural parenting intervention", "parenting program and ethnic groups", "parenting intervention and ethnic groups", "adapted parenting program", "adapted parenting intervention", "cultural adaptation of parenting program'' and "cultural adaptation of parenting intervention". By applying the "Literature Review Synthesis Process", authors conducted cross-analysis, integrated possibilities, and prioritized the synthesized information gearing towards highly probable solutions for improving multicultural parenting programs to manage emotional and behavioral problems in children better. Development of a culturally fit parenting intervention and its implications on existing parenting programs are also discussed. The findings highlight the need 1) to engage with ethnocultural groups of parents during development of a new multicultural parenting program, and 2) to incorporate specific measures for engaging with parents during multicultural parenting program implementation. This paper contributes in acknowledging cultural components in future parenting intervention programs. Finally, recommendations are made for future directions of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruziana Masiran
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Normala Ibrahim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Hamidin Awang
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Poh Ying Lim
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Tsamaase M, Harkness S, Super CM. Grandmothers' Developmental Expectations for Early Childhood in Botswana. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2020; 2020:93-112. [PMID: 32431026 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Urban and rural grandmothers (n = 20) in Botswana participated in focus groups to learn their expectations for the acquisition of skills by preschool children. Their expectations for self-care, traditional politeness, and participation in household chores were dramatically earlier than developmental timetables reported for Western middle-class populations. There are some differences, however, in the urban and rural grandmothers' expectations. Rural grandmothers had earlier expectations for self-care skills and participation in household chores, and they had more specific expectations for mastering Setswana cultural customs. In addition, some urban grandmothers, who were generally more educated, described using more reciprocal communication, and they believed in playing with their grandchildren, whereas the rural grandmothers' communication was more instructional, and they insisted that children should play away from adults. Strikingly, there was no mention of school readiness goals or activities by either group, suggesting a "cultural misfit" between the standard early childhood curriculum, largely imported from the United States and other Western countries, and the cultural backgrounds of Batswana families. To create a more workable partnership between preschool teachers and grandparents-important caretakers of young children, both traditionally and currently-will require efforts to acknowledge and promote the values and expectations of both groups.
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Alsancak-Akbulut C, Sahin-Acar B, Sumer N. Effect of video-feedback intervention on Turkish mothers' sensitivity and physical intrusiveness: a randomized control trial. Attach Hum Dev 2020; 23:795-813. [PMID: 32308130 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2020.1753085] [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] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We examined the effectiveness of the video-feedback Intervention to Promote Positive Parenting-Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD) in enhancing maternal sensitivity and decreasing maternal physical intrusive behaviors among Turkish mothers. Mothers (N = 68; Mage = 29.29, SD = 5.20) with their children (Mage = 20.04 months, SD = 6.62) participated in a randomized controlled trial with pre-, post-, and follow-up assessments (Nintervention = 40, Ncontrol = 28). Maternal sensitivity was assessed using the Ainsworth Sensitivity Scale. A coding schema was developed and used to assess maternal physical intrusiveness. The results indicated that mothers in intervention group benefited from the VIPP-SD in both increasing their global sensitivity (d = 0.51, p =.016) and decreasing the frequency of physical intrusive behaviors (d = 0.56, p =.007) compared to mothers in the control group. Overall, the VIPP-SD program appears to decrease the level of physical intrusiveness, in addition to promoting maternal sensitivity among Turkish mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cansu Alsancak-Akbulut
- Department of Psychology, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Psychology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Basak Sahin-Acar
- Department of Psychology, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nebi Sumer
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Sabancı University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Chaudhary N, Sriram S. Psychology in the “Backyards of the World”: Experiences From India. JOURNAL OF CROSS-CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/0022022119896652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The mind has been the subject of fascination since ancient times, and every cultural tradition has folk theories related to meaning-making, attributions, and explanations about being human. In this sense, the subject of Psychology is as old as humanity, although its rise as a global, scientific discipline is relatively recent, emerging from 20th-century Europe and America. Theoretical ideas and methods generated during the growth of the discipline were aligned with beliefs about human nature and scientific methods specific to Euro-American cultures. Although “preached” and practiced universally as a science, this culturally circumscribed and ideologically bound history of the discipline needs further examination. Rather than “thinking globally” and “acting locally,” the agenda of Psychology has been the reverse; “think locally and act globally,” as critics of mainstream Psychology have pointed out. The predominance of individual, intra-mental, laboratory-tested, quantifiable dimensions of human conduct are based subliminally on Western ideology. The alternative methods of approaching real-life experiences, literature, art, inter-mental phenomena, and other qualitative dimensions of human interactions remain relatively under-explored. The dominant mainstream Psychology is seen as an objective, measurable, and universal science that has had far-reaching consequences for ordinary people around the world. This somewhat sinister side of conventional Psychology is the subject of this article, where we argue that despite significant exceptions and scholarly dissent, the popularity and prevalence of experimental Psychology has marginalized “others” at the expense of its own progress. We use illustrations primarily from teaching, research and practice in Psychology in Indian Universities.
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Bossong L, Keller H. Cross-cultural value mismatch in German day care institutions: Perspectives of migrant parents and day care teachers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 53 Suppl 2:72-80. [DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Heidi Keller
- Development and Culture; University of Osnabrück; Osnabrück Germany
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