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Novak A, Semenza D, Gutman C, Heard-Garris N, Testa A, Jackson DB. Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trajectories of Firearm Exposure in Childhood. J Pediatr 2024; 270:114008. [PMID: 38479639 PMCID: PMC11176024 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the longitudinal relationship between exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in early life and trajectories of firearm exposure from early to middle childhood (ages 5-9 years old). STUDY DESIGN Data from the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (LOGSCAN) study were used. The LONGSCAN study was a prospective study in the United States and contained data from 1354 children from age 4 to age 18 years old. Exposure to ACEs was measured through the wave 1 interview (age 5 years old) and trajectories of firearm exposure were created using data from waves 1 (age 5 years old) and two (age 9 years old). RESULTS Two trajectories of firearm exposure in childhood were identified: a low exposure group and a group with persistently-high firearm exposure from ages 5 to 9 years old. ACEs were associated with membership in the high exposure group and children with four or more ACEs had over twice the odds of membership in the high exposure group compared with children with zero ACEs. CONCLUSION ACEs exposure in early childhood is associated with persistently-high exposure to firearms from early to middle childhood. This finding highlights the need for pediatricians to consider screening for both ACEs and firearm exposure in routine examinations, as well as the need for future research to identify and evaluate interventions intended to address exposure to adversity and firearms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Novak
- Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies, University of Mississippi, University, MS.
| | - Daniel Semenza
- Camden College of Arts and Sciences, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ
| | - Colleen Gutman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
| | - Nia Heard-Garris
- Division of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics, Mary Ann & J. Milburn Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Alexander Testa
- Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Dylan B Jackson
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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2
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Misevičė M, Gervinskaitė-Paulaitienė L, Lesinskienė S, Grauslienė I. Trust-Based Relational Intervention ® (TBRI ®) Impact for Traumatized Children-Meaningful Change on Attachment Security and Mental Health after One Year. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:411. [PMID: 38671627 PMCID: PMC11048912 DOI: 10.3390/children11040411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Children from vulnerable backgrounds often have insecure attachment or disorganized attachment, which are related to psychological troubles, and such children need interventions to help them heal. The attachment system reorganizes in middle childhood, and other important adults play a considerable role in children's lives. Thus, it is essential to weigh the impact of psychosocial interventions, while the main focus of the intervention is the staff member's direct work with the child through a trusting relationship. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate whether children's attachment security and mental health outcomes change after participating in a trauma-informed, attachment-based, Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) provided in a daycare center. It was a case-series study involving twelve children aged 8-11 years. The child attachment interview (CAI), CBCL/6-18, TRF/6-18, and clinical interviews for parents and children were used, measuring the change between the TBRI implementation in the daycare center and after one year. For ten participants, we noticed an improvement in mental health; for seven participants, security scales improved; for two participants, their disorganized attachment changed into insecure-dismissing. We have preliminary evidence that vulnerable children may benefit in terms of attachment security and mental health from the trusting relationship that staff build using the TBRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Misevičė
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, 01513 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | | | - Sigita Lesinskienė
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, 01513 Vilnius, Lithuania;
| | - Izabelė Grauslienė
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Vilnius University, 01513 Vilnius, Lithuania; (L.G.-P.); (I.G.)
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Rodrigues GA, Obeldobel CA, Kochendorfer LB, Brumariu LE, Fareri DS, Kerns KA. Parent-Child Attachment Security and Depressive Symptoms in Early Adolescence: The Mediating Roles of Gratitude and Forgiveness. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:262-273. [PMID: 35852736 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01394-9] [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] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although greater parent-child attachment security is linked with children's lower levels of depressive symptoms, little research has evaluated potential explanatory mechanisms. We investigated whether dispositional gratitude and interpersonal forgiveness explain the relation between attachment security with parents and early adolescents' depressive symptoms. Early adolescents (N = 105; M age = 12.3 years; 51% girls) completed questionnaires assessing their attachment security to mother and father figures, depressive symptoms, and dispositional gratitude, and an interview assessing interpersonal forgiveness. Results revealed that greater attachment security to mothers and fathers was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and greater levels of dispositional gratitude and interpersonal forgiveness. Further, dispositional gratitude and interpersonal forgiveness were negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Dispositional gratitude emerged as a mediator between attachment security with each parent and depressive symptoms. Our findings suggest that greater parent-child security may promote early adolescents' appreciation of positive events, which in turn may relate to fewer depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela A Rodrigues
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, 158 Cambridge Ave, 11530, Garden City, NY, USA.
| | - Carli A Obeldobel
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Logan B Kochendorfer
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
- College of Arts and Sciences, Rockhurst University, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Laura E Brumariu
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, 158 Cambridge Ave, 11530, Garden City, NY, USA
| | - Dominic S Fareri
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, 158 Cambridge Ave, 11530, Garden City, NY, USA
| | - Kathryn A Kerns
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
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4
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Perkins NH, Lees ER. Physical and Emotional Sibling Violence in Childhood and Attachment in Close Relationships in Adulthood. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:11186-11219. [PMID: 37381789 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231179723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite the consequences of physical and emotional sibling violence, which can last into adulthood, research examining this form of family violence is minimal compared to child abuse, interpartner violence, and elder abuse. One area that has received scarce attention is the connection between physical and emotional sibling violence and attachment in close relationships in adulthood. This research study examines the association between physical and emotional sibling violence and adulthood attachment in a sample of 2,458 individuals who completed a survey on the sub-Reddit platform "/r/SampleSize: Where your opinions actually matter!" Participants completed items on demographics, frequency of physical and emotional behaviors experienced with a sibling in childhood, and adult attachment. Results found physical and emotional sibling violence in childhood to be associated with attachment in close relationships in adulthood. Frequency of physical and emotional sibling violence in childhood was also associated with comfortability with intimacy and closeness, comfortability of depending and relying on others, and concerns of abandonment and rejection by others in adulthood. The findings underscore the need to not only include physical and emotional sibling violence in future research on attachment but also to examine the connection between these phenomena in diverse samples (ethnicity, sexual orientation). Also highlighted is the need for practitioners to assess sibling relationships when working with children, families, and adults experiencing attachment issues throughout the life course.
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5
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Bakieras LT. Developmental figures: an attempt at conceptualization and classification. CURRENT ISSUES IN PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 11:121-129. [PMID: 38013940 PMCID: PMC10535554 DOI: 10.5114/cipp/159726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The subject of this paper deals with the theoretical area of personality psychology and life-span psychology. This paper presents a novel approach to the social context of personal development, as a certain terminological gap regarding the category of the developmental figure has been observed. I propose that the developmental figure be defined, analogically to the attachment figure or the transition figure, as an individual who has significant meaning to another person's psychosocial development. Developmental figures can be categorized on the basis of various criteria; for example, based on the type of implications for development we can identify progressive and regressive figures; based on the strength of the influence we identify primary and secondary figures; based on the type of social relation we can identify direct and indirect figures; and based on the duration of the influence we can identify sporadic and frequent interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucyna T. Bakieras
- Faculty of Psychology and Cognitive Sciences, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
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6
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Carter M, van der Watt R, Esterhuyse K. Parent and peer attachment in bullying experiences among pre-adolescents. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY IN AFRICA 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/14330237.2023.2182948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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7
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Elhusseini S, Rawn K, El-Sheikh M, Keller PS. Attachment and prosocial behavior in middle childhood: The role of emotion regulation. J Exp Child Psychol 2023; 225:105534. [PMID: 36030640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2022.105534] [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: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
There is a lack of research on the development of prosocial behavior in middle childhood. The current study addressed this gap through the application of attachment theory; attachment security has been shown to promote prosocial behavior in early childhood, and emotion regulation may be an important intervening variable in this association. A sample of 199 children (aged 6-12 years) reported on their attachment internal working models for the mother-child and father-child relationships, parents reported on child emotion regulation and emotional lability/dysregulation, and children completed a sticker donation task to assess their prosocial behavior. Child emotional lability/dysregulation served as an intervening variable in the association between father-child attachment security (communication and trust) and greater sticker donation. Mother-child and father-child attachment security was also associated with child emotion regulation, but emotion regulation was not associated with sticker donation. Findings suggest that secure attachment may foster prosocial behavior toward peers in middle childhood primarily by reducing dysregulated responses to the distress of others.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyle Rawn
- University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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8
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De Meulenaere J, Stas L, Antrop I, Buysse A, Lemmens GMD. Adolescent Attachment: A Social Relations Perspective on Family Relations. FAMILY PROCESS 2022; 61:764-778. [PMID: 34028838 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
While attachment at an early age is almost exclusively determined by parental behavior, variation in the quality of attachment in adolescence seems strong to be influenced by the complex interplay between the adolescent's internal working model and its environment. To unravel the different sources of variance in adolescent attachment relationships we applied the Social Relations Model. Two parents and two adolescents from 70 relatively well-functioning families reported on their attachment relationships within a family context. In this study, attachment was conceptualized by two different dimensions of attachment, namely anxiety (for being abandoned) and avoidance (of intimacy). Our findings suggest adolescents experience little attachment anxiety throughout adolescence, but they report significantly more attachment avoidance toward their parents. The variance in the quality of adolescents' attachment relationships was mainly determined by characteristics of the adolescent and the unique adjustments they make to the attachment figure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lara Stas
- Department of Data-analysis - Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Inge Antrop
- Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head and Skin - Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ann Buysse
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology - Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gilbert M D Lemmens
- Department of Psychiatry, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head and Skin - Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Carone N, Innocenzi E, Lingiardi V. Peer Microaggressions and Social Skills among School-Age Children of Sexual Minority Parents through Assisted Reproduction: Moderation via the Child-Teacher Relationship. J Youth Adolesc 2022; 51:1210-1229. [PMID: 35275310 PMCID: PMC9090859 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-022-01588-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The impact of peer microaggressions and the child-teacher relationship on the social skills of children with sexual minority parents has received little attention. The current study used a mixed-method, multi-informant, two-wave longitudinal design to address this research gap. Thirty-seven children of lesbian mothers through donor insemination and 33 children of gay fathers though surrogacy (wave 1: Mage = 8.3 years, SD = 1.6; 51.4% female; wave 2: Mage = 9.9 years, SD = 1.7), all school-aged and residing in Italy, participated together with their 140 parents and 55 teachers. Approximately two-thirds of the children reported at least one peer microaggression and, on average, microaggressions were of a low intensity. Child-teacher relationships were of high quality (i.e., characterized by high safe haven-seeking and secure base use, and low conflict). Both parents and teachers reported high levels of child social skills. However, more intense W1 microaggressions predicted lower W2 social skills among children reporting a lower W1 child-teacher relationship quality, and greater W2 social skills among those reporting a higher W1 child-teacher relationship quality. These results support the child-teacher relationship as a potentially secure context in which children can "mentalize" negative experiences such as microaggressions and improve their social skills. In this vein, considering microaggression, attachment, and developmental intergroup theories, teachers must attune to the school experiences of children with sexual minority parents and cultivate caring classroom environments that are sensitive to family diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Carone
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Piazza Botta 11, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Innocenzi
- Department of History, Culture and Society, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Via Columbia 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
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10
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Maciver L, Girard LC. The association between paternal depression and adolescent internalising problems: A test of parenting style as a mediating pathway. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03110-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWhilst there is a large evidence base demonstrating the impact of maternal depression on the development of adolescent internalising problems, less is known about the association between paternal depression and adolescent internalising problems, and the mechanisms through which risk is conferred. This study examined the association between paternal depression and adolescent internalising problems, investigating parenting style as a pathway through which this association may be mediated. Participants included 4048 families taking part in the Growing Up in Ireland child cohort study. Self-report measures of paternal depression were completed when the study child was aged 9. Adolescents assessed paternal demandingness, responsiveness and autonomy granting at the age of 13. Adolescent internalising symptoms were measured at the age of 17/18 by the primary caregiver. A parallel multiple mediator model was used to test the total and specific indirect effects of the three parenting styles, whilst controlling for covariates and other mediators in the model. A direct effect of paternal depression on adolescent internalising problems was found (B = .051, 95% CI: 0.020, 0.083). However, no support for mediation via any of the paternal parenting styles (i.e., responsiveness, demandingness, or autonomy-granting) were found. These findings build on an emerging evidence-base demonstrating a specific direct association between paternal depression and adolescent internalising problems, and suggest that interventions ought to also target fathers suffering from depression to help reduce the risk of adolescent internalising problems.
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11
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Heuser-Spura KM, Jaekel J, Wolke D. The Impact of Formal School Entry on Children's Social Relationships with Parents, Siblings, and Friends. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:891. [PMID: 34682156 PMCID: PMC8535132 DOI: 10.3390/children8100891] [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] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The normative transition to formal schooling confronts children with social challenges but also opportunities. Longitudinal research on how school entry impacts children's family and friend-ship relationships is scarce. This study investigated social relationship qualities with parents, siblings, and friends among 1110 children (49.9% female) from the prospective, population-based Bavarian Longitudinal Study at 6 years (before school entry) and 8 years using a forced-choice card-sorting task. Multivariate analyses of variance revealed significant effects of age (i.e., school entry) on social relationship qualities with mothers (Pillai's Trace (PT) = 0.28, F(9, 1101) = 47.73, p < 0.001), fathers (PT = 0.14, F(9, 1101) = 19.47, p < 0.001), siblings (PT = 0.27, F(9, 1101) = 46.14, p < 0.001), and friends (PT = 0.21, F(9, 1101) = 32.57, p < 0.001). On average, children reported higher levels of parental comfort after school entry. Companionable qualities increased in relationships with friends, whereas sibling relationships became more conflictual from preschool to early school age. Findings provide unique insights into how social relationships develop from preschool to early school age, supporting evidence of the growing importance of friends. Conflict was predominant and increasing in sibling relationships and should be considered more in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina M. Heuser-Spura
- Department of Pediatrics I, Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Neurology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45122 Essen, Germany
- Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Julia Jaekel
- Unit of Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of Oulu, 90570 Oulu, Finland;
- Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
| | - Dieter Wolke
- Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK;
- Division of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
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12
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Katz C, Tener D. "It burns her more than it burns for me": The sibling subsystem in the context of child physical abuse as portrayed by children during forensic interviews. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 120:105251. [PMID: 34392024 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105251] [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: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sibling subsystem is a central and potentially protective factor for children. Nevertheless, in the context of child abuse, it remains surprisingly understudied. OBJECTIVE The current study was designed to examine how children referred to a forensic interview following suspected physical abuse experienced and perceived the sibling subsystem. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING The sample included 60 forensic interviews with children, aged 4 to 14. Each child had at least one sibling and referred to this sibling in the context of the abuse they experienced. METHODS Thematic analysis was carried out on the narratives provided by the children. Several steps were taken to ensure the trustworthiness of the study, with four criteria: credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. RESULTS The main theme identified was physical abuse as a familial routine. This abusive routine was sometimes perceived as normal and sometimes traumatic, with descriptions of fear and physical pain. The children addressed the various figures in this abusive routine. When these horrific daily experiences were elaborated on, the children often captured the sibling subsystem as a source of security, comfort and protection. Moreover, the children's language often communicated the siblings' bond, referring to "we" and "us." Within a few narratives, a split between the siblings was identified, which appeared to be a strategy of self-protection by going against their siblings. CONCLUSION The current findings join the recent accumulating evidence with respect to the centrality of the sibling subsystem in the experiences and consequences of child abuse. It is imperative to advance practitioners' knowledge and interventions to better adapt to the central role of the sibling subsystem in the context of child abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Dafna Tener
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
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13
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Stern JA, Barbarin O, Cassidy J. Working toward anti-racist perspectives in attachment theory, research, and practice. Attach Hum Dev 2021; 24:392-422. [PMID: 34528474 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2021.1976933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent social movements have illuminated systemic inequities in U.S. society, including within the social sciences. Thus, it is essential that attachment researchers and practitioners engage in reflection and action to work toward anti-racist perspectives in the field. Our aims in this paper are (1) to share the generative conversations and debates that arose in preparing the Special Issue of Attachment & Human Development, "Attachment Perspectives on Race, Prejudice, and Anti-Racism"; and (2) to propose key considerations for working toward anti-racist perspectives in the field of attachment. We provide recommendations for enriching attachment theory (e.g. considering relations between caregivers' racial-ethnic socialization and secure base provision), research (e.g. increasing the representation of African American researchers and participants), and practice (e.g. advocating for policies that reduce systemic inequities in family supports). Finally, we suggest two relevant models integrating attachment theory with perspectives from Black youth development as guides for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Stern
- Department Of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, United States
| | - Oscar Barbarin
- Department Of African American Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, United States.,Department Of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, United States
| | - Jude Cassidy
- Department Of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, United States
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14
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Wong RS, Tung KTS, Cheng AWF, Shiu YK, Wong WHS, Tso WWY, Ho MSP, Chan KL, Ho FKW, Lo CKM, Chow CB, Ip P. Disentangling the Effects of Exposure to Maternal Substance Misuse and Physical Abuse and Neglect on Child Behavioral Problems. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:8435-8455. [PMID: 31130045 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519849661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
There is inconsistent evidence on the association between prenatal substance exposure and child behavioral problems. Children affected by maternal substance misuse are vulnerable to physical abuse and neglect. Few studies have examined factors contributing to internalizing and externalizing problems in these children. This study, with a focus on children with prenatal substance exposure, investigated whether family characteristics (the duration of maternal substance misuse postpartum or the existence of a sibling) moderated the association between adverse exposure (physical abuse or neglect) and behavior (internalizing or externalizing problems). We recruited 54 Hong Kong Chinese mothers with registered records of substance misuse during pregnancy and their children (2-9 years). Mothers completed questionnaires on drug use patterns during pregnancy and postpartum, abusive and neglectful parenting behaviors in the preceding year, and children's current behavioral problems. Moderated regression analyses tested whether abusive and neglectful parenting behavior interacted with family characteristics to affect child behavioral problems. The existence of a sibling moderated the relationship between neglect experience and internalizing problems, with a positive relationship observed only among single children (adjusted B [95% confidence interval] = 3.70 [0.98, 6.41], p = .012). The duration of maternal substance misuse postpartum moderated the relationship between physical abuse experience and externalizing problems, with a positive relationship observed only among children of mothers abusing substances beyond the child's infancy period (adjusted B [95% confidence interval] = 6.86 [2.34, 11.38], p = .008). The results show that the impact of physical abuse and neglect experiences depend on the type of behavior assessed and family and child characteristics. Positive sibling relationship and early detoxification in the mother can foster healthy behavioral development for children exposed prenatally to maternal substance misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa S Wong
- The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ko Ling Chan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | | | - Camilla K M Lo
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | | | - Patrick Ip
- The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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15
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Brumariu LE, Kerns KA, Giuseppone KR, Lyons-Ruth K. Disorganized/controlling attachments, emotion regulation, and emotion communication in later middle childhood. JOURNAL OF APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appdev.2021.101324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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16
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Tammilehto J, Punamäki RL, Flykt M, Vänskä M, Heikkilä LM, Lipsanen J, Poikkeus P, Tiitinen A, Lindblom J. Developmental Stage-Specific Effects of Parenting on Adolescents' Emotion Regulation: A Longitudinal Study From Infancy to Late Adolescence. Front Psychol 2021; 12:582770. [PMID: 34149494 PMCID: PMC8211896 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.582770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The quality of parenting shapes the development of children's emotion regulation. However, the relative importance of parenting in different developmental stages, indicative of sensitive periods, has rarely been studied. Therefore, we formulated four hypothetical developmental timing models to test the stage-specific effects of mothering and fathering in terms of parental autonomy and intimacy in infancy, middle childhood, and late adolescence on adolescents' emotion regulation. The emotion regulation included reappraisal, suppression, and rumination. We hypothesized that both mothering and fathering in each developmental stage contribute unique effects to adolescents' emotion regulation patterns. The participants were 885 families followed from pregnancy to late adolescence. This preregistered study used data at the children's ages of 1 year, 7 to 8 years, and 18 years. At each measurement point, maternal and paternal autonomy and intimacy were assessed with self- and partner reports using the Subjective Family Picture Test. At the age of 18 years, adolescents' reappraisal and suppression were assessed using the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and rumination using the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Stage-specific effects were tested comparing structural equation models. Against our hypotheses, the results showed no effects of mothering or fathering in infancy, middle childhood, or late adolescence on adolescents' emotion regulation patterns. The results were consistent irrespective of both the reporter (i.e., self or partner) and the parental dimension (i.e., autonomy or intimacy). In addition to our main results, there were relatively low agreement between the parents in each other's parenting and descriptive discontinuity of parenting across time (i.e., configural measurement invariance). Overall, we found no support for the stage-specific effects of parent-reported parenting in infancy, middle childhood, or late adolescence on adolescents' emotion regulation. Instead, our findings might reflect the high developmental plasticity of emotion regulation from infancy to late adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaakko Tammilehto
- Faculty of Social Sciences/Psychology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Marjo Flykt
- Faculty of Social Sciences/Psychology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mervi Vänskä
- Faculty of Social Sciences/Psychology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lotta M. Heikkilä
- Faculty of Social Sciences/Psychology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jari Lipsanen
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Piia Poikkeus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aila Tiitinen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jallu Lindblom
- Faculty of Social Sciences/Psychology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Katz C, Tener D. My Brother's Keeper? The Sibling Subsystem in the Context of Physical and Sexual Child Abuse. FAMILY PROCESS 2021; 60:186-198. [PMID: 32413237 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The sibling subsystem is of central importance and a possible protective factor for children. Nevertheless, it remains surprisingly understudied and lacks any theoretical or conceptual framework. The current study explored the sibling subsystem in the context of child abuse (CA). Thorough thematic analysis was conducted on the narratives of 30 children referred to forensic interviews following suspected physical or sexual abuse by a parent. Aged 4-14, all had at least one sibling each and referred to this sibling during their interviews in the specific context of the CA they had experienced. Their narratives shed light on two dynamics that can characterize the sibling subsystem in the context of CA: compensation and spillover of the trauma into the sibling subsystem. They stress the centrality of the sibling subsystem in the children's lives and the siblings' role in the children's survival of CA. The current study's findings emphasize the urgency of continuing to develop studies in this area, as they will likely contribute to both prevention and intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmit Katz
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Dafna Tener
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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18
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Hughes JL, Morrow KE, Spears SK, Gentzler AL. Mothers' and children's depression is linked through children's perceptions of attachment security. INFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/icd.2208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L. Hughes
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University Morgantown West Virginia USA
| | - Kayley E. Morrow
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University Morgantown West Virginia USA
| | - Shantel K. Spears
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University Morgantown West Virginia USA
| | - Amy L. Gentzler
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University Morgantown West Virginia USA
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19
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Zhao J, Gao F, Xu Y, Sun Y, Han L. The relationship between shyness and aggression: The multiple mediation of peer victimization and security and the moderation of parent–child attachment. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2019.109733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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20
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Fernandes M, Veríssimo M, Santos AJ, Ribeiro O, Vaughn BE, Gastelle M, Kerns KA. Measurement invariance across mother/child and father/child attachment relationships. Attach Hum Dev 2020; 23:56-74. [PMID: 31931671 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2019.1710222] [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: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We examine the factorial structure of the Security Scale Questionnaire (SSQ), exploring measurement invariance across mother-father-child attachment relationships, child sex, and country. We used the new 21-item SSQ version that integrates both safe haven and secure base behaviors in a two factors structure. Participants were 457 children (224 girls and 233 boys), ranging from 9 to 14 years old (M = 10.84, SD = 1.02) from Portuguese and USA samples. We confirmed the SSQ's two-factor structure, although four items were unrelated to the latent structure and excluded from the final model. Results showed that SSQ can be used to study both mother/child and father/child attachment relationships. Multi-group analyses suggested measurement invariance between boys and girls and between Portuguese and USA samples. Our findings suggest that the SSQ can be considered a valid and cost-effective tool to measure perceived attachment security in middle childhood for both mother/child and father/child relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília Fernandes
- William James Center for Research, ISPA- Instituto Universitário , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuela Veríssimo
- William James Center for Research, ISPA- Instituto Universitário , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - António J Santos
- William James Center for Research, ISPA- Instituto Universitário , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Olívia Ribeiro
- William James Center for Research, ISPA- Instituto Universitário , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Brian E Vaughn
- Family & Child Development, Auburn University , Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Marissa Gastelle
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH, USA
| | - Kathryn A Kerns
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University , Kent, OH, USA
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21
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Psouni E, Breinholst S, Hoff Esbjørn B, Steele H. Factor structure of the
Friends and Family
interview. Scand J Psychol 2020; 61:460-469. [DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elia Psouni
- Department of Psychology Lund University Sweden
| | | | | | - Howard Steele
- Department of Psychology The New School for Social Research New York USA
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22
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Carone N, Baiocco R, Lingiardi V, Kerns K. Child attachment security in gay father surrogacy families: Parents as safe havens and secure bases during middle childhood. Attach Hum Dev 2019; 22:269-289. [PMID: 30873903 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2019.1588906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Child attachment security and utilization of parents as safe havens and secure bases were compared in 33 surrogacy children with gay fathers and 37 donor-conceived children with lesbian mothers during middle childhood. Assessments included data coded from parent-child interactions, interviews, and questionnaires administered to children and both parents. Findings indicated that children of gay fathers perceived high attachment security and their scores did not differ from those of children with lesbian mothers or from normative scores of children with heterosexual parents. Children's greater attachment security was associated with higher levels of parental warmth, responsiveness, and willingness to serve as an attachment figure; lower levels of parental negative control and rejection; and the child's younger age. Finally, children used the primary attachment figure more as a safe haven and the secondary attachment more as a secure base, though they reported high levels of both types of support from both parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Carone
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Kathryn Kerns
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
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23
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Brumariu LE, Diaconu-Gherasim LR, Kerns KA, C Lewis N. Attachment figures in a middle childhood Romanian sample: Does parental migration for employment matter? Attach Hum Dev 2018; 22:290-309. [PMID: 30585535 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2018.1557716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed how children's choices of attachment figures are related to the quality of the parent-child relationship and parental economic migration in a Romanian sample. Two hundred and twenty-two children (n girls =130) 10-13 years of age completed the Attachment Figure Interview and a parental migration interview, and reported their attachment security with mother and father. Approximately 35.6% (n = 79) of children had mothers with a migration history and 48.7% (n = 104) of children had fathers with a migration history. Mothers, and to some extent fathers, serve as primary attachment figures. Grandparents, peers, siblings and relatives serve as secondary attachment figures in some situations. Further, children are less likely to choose mothers as primary attachment figures and show lower attachment security when their mothers rather than their fathers have a history of migration. Overall, this study provides empirical grounds to conceptualize parental migration as an attachment disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Brumariu
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
| | | | - Kathryn A Kerns
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Nicholette C Lewis
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
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24
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A Critical Exploration of Child-Parent Attachment as a Contextual Construct. Behav Sci (Basel) 2018; 8:bs8120112. [PMID: 30544893 PMCID: PMC6315501 DOI: 10.3390/bs8120112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bowlby’s attachment theory has been employed as a broad and integrative framework to explore human wellness across a range of disciplines. Attachment theory has even been labelled one of the last surviving “grand theories” not to have been completely dismissed, replaced, or extensively reworked. However, despite the ubiquitous nature of some of the theory’s fundamental tenets, there are always possibilities for new conceptual development, extension, and revision. In this paper, we critically explore the idea of “context-specific” attachment within parent-child relationships. We briefly outline critical assumptions and key areas of attachment and articulate potential rationale, conceptualization, and relevance of contextual attachment.
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25
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Becke SD, Bongard S, Keller H. Attachment as a Collective Resource: Attachment Networks During Middle Childhood in a Cameroonian Clan. JOURNAL OF CROSS-CULTURAL PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/0022022118814686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Attachment theory is commonly used to investigate children’s psychosocial development. To demonstrate cultural variability and to advance the idea of attachment as a collective resource, we assessed children’s attachment networks during middle childhood among the Nseh, a Cameroonian clan with distinct concepts of family and childhood. Using photo elicitation interviews, we used an exploratory approach to investigate the structural and functional composition of these networks and to generate a comprehensive overview. Participants were 11 children (six girls and five boys), aged 6 to 10 years. Children took photos of individuals who were important to them and with whom they felt safe, comfortable, and at ease. Then, in follow-up interviews they were asked to characterize their attachment figures on sociostructural dimensions and to elaborate how those individuals made them feel comfortable and safe. Transcripts of the interviews were coded using ethnographic strategies. Initial descriptive codes were analyzed concerning key terms, semantic relationships, and their context of meaning, before assigning higher level codes to generate distinct main categories of functionality. Children described attachment networks that were structurally adapted to concepts of social ties and interactional norms of the clan. Concerning their functionality, children differentiated between peers, responsible for overt emotional needs, and adults, providing nutritional care. We conclude that this pattern reflects sources of security and concepts of care of the distinct developmental environment. We discuss the importance of context-specific and comprehensive approaches to attachment, moving beyond Eurocentric monotropic concepts, with the goal of developing a complex understanding of childhood across ecocultural settings.
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26
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Vandenbroucke L, Spilt JL, Verschueren K, Baeyens D. The effects of peer rejection, parent and teacher support on working memory performance: An experimental approach in middle childhood. LEARNING AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lindif.2018.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Becke SD, Bongard S. Comparing Attachment Networks During Middle Childhood in Two Contrasting Cultural Contexts. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1201. [PMID: 30065683 PMCID: PMC6057239 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cultural psychology assumes that the ecocultural conditions of a particular setting shape children’s pathways, resulting in multiple adaptive solutions to universal developmental tasks. While the adaptivity of attachment and children’s psychosocial development during the early years has been thoroughly investigated, attachment research during middle childhood continues to reflect Western ideals of family. Adhering to ideas of monotropy, most studies only focus on parental attachment figures. However, this restricted empirical perspective does not only result in a Eurocentric bias, it also neglects theoretical reflections on the growing complexity of attachment during middle childhood, thus only considering a limited selection of all individuals contributing to the children’s feeling of security, even in Western settings. To investigate the variability and adaptivity of attachment during middle childhood, this study assessed children’s attachment figures in two extreme settings of development, introducing an exhaustive network perspective on attachment during this developmental stage. Children of the Cameroonian Nseh (N = 11) and German children from Bad Nauheim (N = 11) identified and differentiated all individuals contributing to their attachment need in an exploratory and transdisciplinary approach. The socio-structural composition of children’s attachment networks follows the context-specific systems of care and concepts of interconnectedness and the ecological features of each setting, resulting in marked differences between both contexts. The functional composition, however, reflects children’s preoccupation with similar developmental challenges across settings. Same-aged peers contribute to the children’s feeling of safety in both settings, thereby deviating from previous reflections on their subordinate relevance during middle childhood. Overall, these results support the adaptiveness of children’s attachment patterns while also demonstrating universal trends across contexts. They highlight the collective nature of attachment during middle childhood that exceeds the impact of individual dyads. Thus, broad and context-sensitive research strategies become a necessary addition to attachment research in order to generate an exhaustive understanding for children’s development across cultural contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia D Becke
- Department of Psychology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stephan Bongard
- Department of Psychology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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28
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Viejo C, Monks CP, Sánchez-Rosa M, Ortega-Ruiz R. Attachment hierarchies for Spanish adolescents: family, peers and romantic partner figures. Attach Hum Dev 2018; 21:551-570. [PMID: 29695190 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2018.1466182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attachment Theory has become one of the leading theories in human development. Nonetheless, empirical studies focusing on how attachment unfolds during adolescence are still scarce particularly in Spain, due to the lack of adequate measures. OBJECTIVE This study aims to validate the Important People Interview (IPI) in a shorter questionnaire version (Important People- Questionnaire; IP-Q); to analyse the changes in different affiliative bonds to multiple figures -family, peers, romantic partners - over the course of adolescence; and to identify boys' and girls' hierarchical ordering of their specific attachment bonds. METHOD 1025 Spanish adolescents, aged 12-17 years old completed the IP-Q. RESULTS The results showed that the IP-Q has convergent and divergent validity. Moreover, this measure indicated that peers overtake some family members in proximity-seeking and support-seeking, but not in the overall hierarchical ordering of the attachment bond during adolescence. CONCLUSIONS The bond with the romantic partner increases in terms of scoring on the affiliative subscales as adolescence progresses. There are significant gender differences among the hierarchy patterns of attachment for boys and girls. Developmental changes in adolescent attachment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Viejo
- Dpto. de Psicología, University of Cordoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Claire P Monks
- Department of Psychology, Social Work & Counselling, University of Greenwich , London , UK
| | | | - Rosario Ortega-Ruiz
- Dpto. de Psicología, University of Cordoba , Córdoba , Spain.,Department of Psychology, Social Work & Counselling, University of Greenwich , London , UK
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29
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Internal structure and reliability of the Attachment Insecurity Screening Inventory (AISI) for children age 6 to 12. BMC Psychiatry 2018; 18:30. [PMID: 29402240 PMCID: PMC5800067 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-018-1608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to examine the internal structure and reliability of the Attachment Insecurity Screening Inventory (AISI) 6-12. The AISI 6-12 years is a parent-report questionnaire for assessing the parents' perspective on the quality of the attachment relationship with their child aged between 6 and 12 years. METHODS The sample consisted of 681 mothers and fathers reporting on 372 children (72.3% adoption parents, 14.9% non-biological primary care takers including foster parents, and 12.8% biological parents). The internal structure was assessed with multilevel confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and the reliability of the scores with Cronbach's and ordinal alphas. RESULTS Multilevel CFA confirmed a three-factor model of avoidant, ambivalent/resistant and disorganized attachment. Multi-group CFA indicated full configural and metric measurement invariance, and partial scalar and strict measurement invariance across mothers and fathers. Reliability coefficients were found to be sufficient. CONCLUSIONS This study showed the potential of using parental reports in the initial screening of attachment related problems, especially considering the practical approach of parental reports. However, further development of the AISI 6-12 years seems important to increase the validity of the AISI 6-12 years. In addition, future studies are necessary to replicate the current findings, and to strengthen the evidence that the AISI 6-12 years is appropriate for the use in middle childhood and validly assesses the parents' perspective on attachment insecurities in their child.
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30
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Freeman H, Simons J. Attachment network structure as a predictor of romantic attachment formation and insecurity. SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/sode.12265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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31
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Collings S, Llewellyn G, Grace R. Home and the social worlds beyond: exploring influences in the lives of children of mothers with intellectual disability. Child Care Health Dev 2017; 43:697-708. [PMID: 28295454 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mothers with intellectual disability are likely to raise their children in socially disadvantaged circumstances, and many face social isolation; however, the impact of a potentially restricted home context on children's social worlds has not been examined. This study was conducted to explore influences in the social worlds of children of mothers with intellectual disability from a child's perspective. METHODS Seven children aged 7 to 11 years took part in at least two semi-structured interviews over a year. Narrative accounts of each child's social interactions were analysed to ascertain if a pattern was present across the group. RESULTS Home was found to influence the children's social interactions elsewhere by providing (or not) predictable routines and rules, and support from a significant adult other than a mother. Home environments were found to influence other social worlds by establishing a foundation for children's expectations about social interactions. CONCLUSIONS The social worlds of school-aged children of mothers with intellectual disability are shaped by influences in the home that cannot be attributed exclusively to having a parent with intellectual disability. Significant adults provide an important support role and can be fulfilled by social service workers when a family-centred approach is applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Collings
- Intellectual Disability Behaviour Support Program, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - G Llewellyn
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - R Grace
- Children and Families Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Montuoro P, Mainhard T. An investigation of the mechanism underlying teacher aggression: Testing I 3 theory and the General Aggression Model. BRITISH JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 87:497-517. [PMID: 28485009 DOI: 10.1111/bjep.12161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considerable research has investigated the deleterious effects of teachers responding aggressively to students who misbehave, but the mechanism underlying this dysfunctional behaviour remains unknown. AIMS This study investigated whether the mechanism underlying teacher aggression follows I3 theory or General Aggression Model (GAM) metatheory of human aggression. I3 theory explains exceptional, catastrophic events of human aggression, whereas the GAM explains common human aggression behaviours. SAMPLE A total of 249 Australian teachers participated in this study, including 142 primary school teachers (Mdn [age] = 35-39 years; Mdn [years teaching] = 10-14 years; 84% female) and 107 secondary school teachers (Mdn [age] = 45-49 years; Mdn [years teaching] = 15-19 years; 65% female). METHODS Participants completed four online self-report questionnaires, which assessed caregiving responsiveness, trait self-control, misbehaviour provocation, and teacher aggression. RESULTS Analyses revealed that the GAM most accurately captures the mechanism underlying teacher aggression, with lower caregiving responsiveness appearing to indirectly lead to teacher aggression via higher misbehaviour provocation and lower trait self-control in serial, controlling for gender, age, years teaching, and current role (primary, secondary). CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that teacher aggression proceeds from 'the person in the situation'. Specifically, lower caregiving responsiveness appears to negatively shape a teacher's affective, cognitive, and arousal states, which influence how they perceive and interpret student misbehaviour. These internal states, in turn, appear to negatively influence appraisal and decision processes, leading to immediate appraisal and impulsive actions. These results raise the possibility that teacher aggression is a form of countertransference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Montuoro
- School of Education, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim Mainhard
- Department of Education, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
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Julal FS, Carnelley KB, Rowe A. The relationship between attachment style and placement of parents in adults' attachment networks over time. Attach Hum Dev 2017; 19:382-406. [PMID: 28440709 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2017.1316751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Using a bull's-eye hierarchical mapping technique (HMT), the present study examined placement of parents in adults' attachment networks over time. We hypothesized that attachment style would predict distance at which network members (mother, father, and romantic partner) would be placed from the core-self over time. Participants completed the HMT on two occasions, 12 months apart. Concurrently and over time, fathers were placed further from the core-self than mothers. Attachment style explained unique variance, beyond that accounted for by individual and relationship characteristics. Specifically, network members with whom participants reported greater attachment insecurity were placed further from the core-self concurrently. Mothers with whom participants reported greater attachment insecurity were placed further from the core-self over time. Unsatisfactory attachment relationships with father and partner and those marked by higher attachment insecurity were more likely to be excluded from attachment networks over time. Findings suggest that attachment style, relationship quality, romantic relationship status, and parents' marital status determine the placement of parents in adults' attachment networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- F S Julal
- a School of Psychology , University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - K B Carnelley
- b Psychology Department , University of Southampton , Southampton , UK
| | - A Rowe
- c School of Experimental Psychology , Bristol University , Bristol , UK
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34
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O'Hare D, Helmes E, Eapen V, Grove R, McBain K, Reece J. The Impact of Tic Severity, Comorbidity and Peer Attachment on Quality of Life Outcomes and Functioning in Tourette's Syndrome: Parental Perspectives. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2016; 47:563-73. [PMID: 26440978 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-015-0590-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this controlled, community-based study based on data from parents of youth (aged 7-16 years) with Tourette's syndrome (TS; n = 86) and parents of age and gender matched peers (n = 108) was to test several hypotheses involving a range of variables salient to the TS population, including peer attachment, quality of life, severity of tics, comorbidity, and psychological, behavioural and social dysfunction. Multivariate between-group analyses confirmed that TS group youth experienced lower quality of life, increased emotional, behavioural and social difficulties, and elevated rates of insecure peer attachment relative to controls, as reported by their primary caregiver. Results also confirmed the main hypothesis that security of peer attachment would be associated with individual variability in outcomes for youth with TS. As predicted, multivariate within-TS group analyses determined strong relationships among adverse quality of life outcomes and insecure attachment to peers, increased tic severity, and the presence of comorbid disorder. Findings suggest that youth with TS are at increased risk for insecure peer attachment and that this might be an important variable impacting the quality of life outcomes for those diagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre O'Hare
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Edward Helmes
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales & Ingham Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District (AUCS), Liverpool Hospital, Mental Health Centre (Level 1: ICAMHS), Locked Bag 7103, Liverpool, Sydney, NSW, 2170, Australia.
| | - Rachel Grove
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales & Ingham Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kerry McBain
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - John Reece
- School of Psychological Sciences, Australian College of Applied Psychology, Melbourne, Australia
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Kerns KA, Koehn AJ, van Dulmen MHM, Stuart-Parrigon KL, Coifman KG. Preadolescents' Relationships with Pet Dogs: Relationship Continuity and Associations with Adjustment. APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE 2016; 21:67-80. [PMID: 29422765 DOI: 10.1080/10888691.2016.1160781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Research on human-animal interaction in children has been studied in isolation rather than integrated with core theories of children's relationships. This study is one of the first to examine how children's relationships with pet dogs are related to their human relationships (parent-child attachments, friendships) and to child adjustment, and to include observational assessment of children's interactions with their pet dog. Children (9 to 11 years old, n = 99) completed questionnaires regarding relationships with pet dogs, parents, and friends. Half the children were observed interacting with their pet dog. Children and teachers reported children's adjustment. Children who felt closer to their dogs were more securely attached to mothers and fathers, and reported more positive qualities and less conflict with friends. Children with more secure attachments to mothers, and greater companionship with dogs, interacted more with their dogs. Parental attachment and friendship quality, but not the pet dog relationship, were related to child adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda J Koehn
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University
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Factors impacting the quality of peer relationships of youth with Tourette's syndrome. BMC Psychol 2015; 3:34. [PMID: 26424471 PMCID: PMC4589979 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-015-0090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is a poorly understood neurodevelopmental disorder consistently associated with impaired peer relationships. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between TS and the ability of diagnosed youth to form secure attachment relationships with peers. A quantitative study examined differences between youth with TS and typically developing peers in social functioning, relationship problems and attachment security. Qualitative studies sought to identify factors that enhanced or impeded the ability to form secure peer relationships, including the impact of tic severity, comorbidity and personality traits. All research was conducted from the parental perspective. Methods The research consisted of a controlled, survey-based qualitative and quantitative study (Study One) of parents of youth with TS (n = 86) and control group peers (n = 108), and a qualitative telephone interview-based study of TS group parents (Study Two, n = 22). Quantitative assessment of social functioning, peer problems and peer attachment security was conducted using the Paediatric Quality of Life inventory, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Attachment Questionnaire for Children. Qualitative data relating to personality was classified using the Five Factor Model. Results Results revealed significantly higher rates of insecure peer attachment, problems in peer relationships, difficulty making friends, stigmatisation and lower levels of social functioning for the TS group. Significant between-group differences in number and type of factors impacting peer relationships were also determined with ‘personality’ emerging as the most prevalent factor. Whilst Extraversion and Agreeableness facilitated friendships for both groups, higher rates of Neuroticism were barriers to friendship for individuals with TS. The TS group also identified multiple ‘non-personality’ factors impacting peer relationships, including TS and comorbid symptom severity, the child’s psychological and behavioural adjustment to their disorder, coping strategies and the behaviour and attitudes of peers. Discussion Our findings suggest that, whilst Extraversion and Agreeableness facilitated friendships for both groups, higher rates of Neuroticism were barriers to friendship for individuals with TS. Notwithstanding the fact that these findings are based on parental report and not the perceptions of youth themselves, this study may help clinicians to identify youth at increased risk of developing insecure peer relationships and guide the development of targeted supports. Conclusions The findings from the study may help clinicians, parents and individuals with TS to better understand and cope with the difficulties experienced in interactions with peers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40359-015-0090-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Breinholst S, Esbjørn BH, Reinholdt-Dunne ML. Effects of attachment and rearing behavior on anxiety in normal developing youth: A mediational study. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2014.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Bosmans G, Kerns KA. Attachment in Middle Childhood: Progress and Prospects. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2015; 2015:1-14. [DOI: 10.1002/cad.20100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Guy Bosmans
- Parenting and Special Education Research Group, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kathryn A. Kerns
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH
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Verschueren K. Middle Childhood Teacher-Child Relationships: Insights From an Attachment Perspective and Remaining Challenges. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2015; 2015:77-91. [DOI: 10.1002/cad.20097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karine Verschueren
- School Psychology and Child and Adolescent Development, Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Belgium
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Kerns KA, Mathews BL, Koehn AJ, Williams CT, Siener-Ciesla S. Assessing both safe haven and secure base support in parent–child relationships. Attach Hum Dev 2015; 17:337-53. [DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2015.1042487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Commodari E. Preschool teacher attachment and attention skills. SPRINGERPLUS 2014; 2:673. [PMID: 24386619 PMCID: PMC3872284 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-2-673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Attention underlies and energizes all cognitive and behavioral activities. Many studies showed that the quality of child attachment (both to parental and non parental figures) influences cognitive functions and attention. This study aimed to investigate the relationships among attachment to preschool teachers and attention in a sample of preschoolers. In particular, the study analyzed whether child attachment security to preschool teachers influences the different aspects of their attention skills. In addition, gender- and age-related differences in attention and teacher attachment were explored. Research was conducted using two standardized instruments: the Attention and Concentration Battery, and the Attachment Q Sort. Participants were 279 children (147 male, 132 female) who attended two preschools in a town in Southern Italy. Descriptive analyses, t-tests analyses, and correlation and regression analyses were carried out. Findings highlighted several interesting points concerning the relationships that occur among attachment to preschool teachers and attention. Children with secure attachments presented higher reaction time and better auditory, visual, and visual spatial selectivity and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Commodari
- Department of Educational Processes, Unversity of Catania, Catania, 95127 Italy
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Kerns KA, Brumariu LE. Is Insecure Parent-Child Attachment a Risk Factor for the Development of Anxiety in Childhood or Adolescence? CHILD DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES 2013; 8:12-17. [PMID: 24660023 DOI: 10.1111/cdep.12054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we address how and why parent-child attachment is related to anxiety in children. Children who do not form secure attachments to caregivers risk developing anxiety or other internalizing problems. While meta-analyses yield different findings regarding which insecurely attached children are at greatest risk, our recent studies suggest that disorganized children may be most at risk. Insecure attachment itself may contribute to anxiety, but insecurely attached children also are more likely to have difficulties regulating emotions and interacting competently with peers, which may further contribute to anxiety. Clinical disorders occur primarily when insecure attachment combines with other risk factors. In this article, we present a model of factors related to developing anxiety.
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Psouni E, Apetroaia A. Measuring scripted attachment-related knowledge in middle childhood: the Secure Base Script Test. Attach Hum Dev 2013; 16:22-41. [PMID: 23777439 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2013.804329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Secure base scripts (SBS) are thought of as the earliest, rudimentary mental representations of attachment, comprising temporally and causally related events occurring in interactions between children and their attachment figures. SBS have been studied in preschool children, adolescents and adults, but there is little research relating SBS to other attachment measures in middle childhood. Here, the Secure Base Script Test (SBST), a narrative-based measure of attachment scripts in middle childhood, was developed and evaluated. In two studies with 7-12-year-olds (total N = 261), high internal consistency, inter-rater reliability and discriminant validity was established. SBS knowledge was consistent across different contexts and relationships and converged strongly with security and coherence in representations assessed by the Friends and Family Interview and moderately with self-reported attachment security. Furthermore, SBS knowledge predicted children's capacity to respond to distress in an adaptive way. Our findings may be taken to provide some first evidence for generalized scripted attachment knowledge already in middle childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elia Psouni
- a Department of Psychology , Lund University , Sweden
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