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Nowland R, McNally L, Gregory P. Parents' use of digital technology for social connection during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study. Scand J Psychol 2024; 65:533-548. [PMID: 38258304 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021) resulted in isolation due to social distancing rules and lockdowns, during which technology was used to enable families and friends to maintain contact. Despite loneliness being high in parents, little is known about which parents are more likely to experience loneliness and strategies to support them. METHOD This mixed-methods study examines which parents were lonely during the pandemic and how digital technologies were used to reduce loneliness and social isolation. Data were collected during the first UK lockdown from May to July 2020 via an online survey (N = 145) and follow-up interviews (n = 13). RESULTS Loneliness reported during lockdown was greater than retrospective reporting of loneliness for all respondents, but it was higher in single parents, those caring for children with specific needs, and those with lower household incomes before and during lockdown. Parents rapidly adapted to and experimented with using technology for social connection during the lockdown, which helped to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Video calling was found to be useful for making connections and enhancing social presence, but parents also experienced anxieties and difficulties with its use. There were mixed views about technology use; some were keen to continue using technology for socializing after the lockdown ended, but for others, it was only a temporary measure. CONCLUSION Although technology was invaluable during the pandemic, it was not a panacea, and the way parents used it was influenced by their approach to technology and existing social behaviors and networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Nowland
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Lara McNally
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Peggy Gregory
- School of Computing Science, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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2
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Falck FAOK, Dhejne CMU, Frisén LMM, Armuand GM. Subjective Experiences of Pregnancy, Delivery, and Nursing in Transgender Men and Non-Binary Individuals: A Qualitative Analysis of Gender and Mental Health Concerns. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1981-2002. [PMID: 38228983 PMCID: PMC11106200 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02787-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Studies of how gender-diverse individuals experience pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing remain few, mainly focus on the US and contain scarce information about mental health concerns peri-partum. This hinders informed reproductive health decisions and counseling. We used in-depth interviews to examine how gestational gender-diverse individuals in Sweden experience the process of planning and undergoing pregnancy, delivery, and nursing. In total, 12 participants, identifying on the masculine side of the gender spectrum or as non-binary, who had attended Swedish antenatal care and delivered a live birth, were included in the study. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic content analysis. The analysis resulted in one overarching theme: sustaining gender congruence during pregnancy and three main categories: (1) considering pregnancy; (2) undergoing pregnancy and childbirth; and (3) postnatal reflections. The association between childbearing and being regarded as female permeated narratives. Participants renegotiated the feminine connotations of pregnancy, accessed gender-affirming treatment, and concealed their pregnancy to safeguard their gender congruence. Mis-gendering and breast enlargement triggered gender dysphoria. Social judgment, loneliness, information shortages, hormonal influence and cessation of testosterone increased gender dysphoria and strained their mental health. Depression exacerbated gender dysphoria and made it harder to claim one's gender identity. Dissociation was used to handle a feminized body, vaginal delivery, and nursing. Pregnancy was easier to envision and handle after masculinizing gender-affirming treatments. The results deepen the understanding of gender dysphoria and may be used to inform reproductive counseling and healthcare development. Research outcomes on mental health concerns provide a basis for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas A O K Falck
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Psychiatry Southwest, Karolinska University Hospital in Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia M U Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise M M Frisén
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gabriela M Armuand
- School of Health and Welfare, Faculty of Health Sciences 1, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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3
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Golds L, Gillespie-Smith K, MacBeth A. Associations between maternal smartphone use and mother-infant responsiveness: A cluster analysis of potential risk and protective factors. Infant Ment Health J 2024; 45:341-353. [PMID: 38478546 DOI: 10.1002/imhj.22112] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Contradictory results in the extant literature suggests that additional risk factors should be considered when exploring the impacts of maternal smartphone use on mother-infant relationships. This study used cluster analysis to explore whether certain risk factors were implicated in mother-infant dyads with high smartphone use and low mother-infant responsiveness. A cross-sectional survey of 450 participants in the UK measured infant social-emotional development, maternal depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms, wellbeing, social support, smartphone use, and mother-infant responsiveness. Participants were predominantly White (95.3%) and living with a partner (95.2%), with infants who were born full-term (88.9%). Cluster analysis identified three clusters characterized as; cluster (1) "infant at risk" showing high infant development concerns, high maternal smartphone use, and low mother-infant responsiveness; cluster (2) "mother at risk" showing high maternal depressive, anxiety, and stress scores, low social support, high maternal smartphone use, and low mother-infant responsiveness, and cluster (3) "low risk" showing low maternal smartphone use and high mother-infant responsiveness. Significant differences were found between all risk factors, except for maternal smartphone use and mother-infant responsiveness between clusters 1 and 2 suggesting that both clusters require early intervention, although interventions should be tailored towards the different risk factors they are presenting with.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Golds
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Angus MacBeth
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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4
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George-Levi S, Laslo-Roth R, Ben-Yaakov L. Differences in Interpersonal Resources and Risk Factors Among Mothers and Fathers of Children on the Autism Spectrum: A Serial Mediation Model. J Autism Dev Disord 2024; 54:1398-1410. [PMID: 36710298 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-05900-3] [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] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Mothers and fathers of children on the autism spectrum may differ in their perception of their interpersonal resources and risk factors. Fathers (114) and mothers (507) of children on the autism spectrum participated in the study. Fathers (vs. mothers) reported lower interpersonal resources (interpersonal emotion regulation and perceived support from friends and formal sources, but not family) and higher levels of interpersonal risk factors (social, not emotional, loneliness). A serial mediation model indicated that parents' gender predicted interpersonal emotion regulation which in turn related to parents' social loneliness directly and indirectly through perceived social support. Fathers of children on the autism spectrum may differ from mothers in perceptions of interpersonal resources and risk factors related to parents' social belonging needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan George-Levi
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, 10 Peres St, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Roni Laslo-Roth
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, 10 Peres St, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lital Ben-Yaakov
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, 10 Peres St, Rehovot, Israel
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5
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Backman E, Åsberg Johnels J, Thunberg G. Parental perceptions of social life before and after attending a parent training program for children with complex communication needs: the ComAlong example. Augment Altern Commun 2024; 40:46-56. [PMID: 37768212 DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2023.2262036] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Parent training programs aimed at improving language outcomes for children with complex communication needs have predominantly been evaluated on child-centered outcomes and less often on the impact on social life or parental well-being. This study examined parent perceptions of social life before and after ComAlong, a group intervention providing parents with knowledge and training in responsive communication, environmental-milieu teaching strategies and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Parents (N = 467) completed questionnaires during the first and last sessions of ComAlong groups held in Sweden 2012 to 2018. Main outcome measure was change in the Social Life Scale from the Family Impact Questionnaire. Associations between this measure and demographic factors of parents and children were analyzed, along with reported change in parents' use of AAC. Pre-post comparisons revealed small significant positive changes in perceived impact of social life following intervention. The magnitude of the positive change was larger among parents of children with non-syndromic diagnoses and parents of children with autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyper activity disorder (ADHD). Differences in social life impact was not associated with parents' gender, language proficiency, age, or educational background. In conclusion, communication-focused parent training programs can have a positive impact on social family life and may thereby influence children's participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Backman
- Regional habilitation center, Region Halland, Sweden
- Department of Social Sciences, Marie Cederschiöld University College, Sweden
| | - Jakob Åsberg Johnels
- Speech and Language Pathology Unit, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Thunberg
- DART centre for AAC and AT, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Nowland R, Charles J, Thomson G. Loneliness in Pregnancy and Parenthood: Impacts, Outcomes, and Costs. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2024; 97:93-98. [PMID: 38559456 PMCID: PMC10964817 DOI: 10.59249/nktk3337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background: Becoming a parent has been highlighted as a period associated with increased risks for loneliness, with around one-third of parents reporting feeling lonely often or always. However, as most understanding of loneliness is based on elderly or student cohorts, further insights into the costs of parental loneliness is needed. Method: We conducted a literature review of impacts of loneliness in pregnancy and parenthood and present a synthesis of the health, social, societal, and economic costs. We draw on evidence about impacts and costs of loneliness in other cohorts to help provide a wider context to understand the impacts and costs and how parental loneliness differs from other populations. Results: Similar to literature with elderly cohorts, parental loneliness has impacts on health and wellbeing, such as depression in new parents and increased general practitioner (GP) visits in pregnancy. But also has intergenerational impacts via its association with poor mental health and social competence and increased respiratory tract infections in the child. Physical health impacts widely associated with loneliness in other cohorts have yet to be examined in parents. Loneliness in parents is likely to result in social withdrawal further isolating parents and wider societal and economic costs relating to absence from employment and informal caring roles. Conclusion: Parental loneliness has the potential for negative and pervasive impacts. As parental loneliness has wide ranging and intergenerational impacts it is important that a multi-sectoral perspective is used when examining its costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Nowland
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Central
Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Joanna Charles
- Health and Social Services Group, Welsh Government,
Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Gill Thomson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Central
Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Fan Z, Shi X, Zhang W, Zhang B. The effect of parental regulatory focus on the loneliness stigma of college children. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:273. [PMID: 38263059 PMCID: PMC10804773 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17714-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to examine the relationship between regulatory focus and loneliness stigma, as well as the intergenerational transmission of the two. Specifically, the study analyzed the effects of fathers' and mothers' regulatory focus on their own and their spouses' stigma of loneliness. In addition, a mediation model was constructed to explore how parents' regulatory focus influences their children's stigma of loneliness and the potential mediating mechanisms involved. METHODS Questionnaires were distributed to 470 college students and their parents, employing the Regulatory Focus Questionnaire (RFQ) and the Stigma of Loneliness Scale (SLS) to collect data. RESULTS The analysis of intergenerational transmission effects revealed that parents' regulatory focus and loneliness stigma significantly and positively predicted children's regulatory focus and loneliness stigma, respectively. The Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) elucidated that both fathers' and mothers' promotion focus exerted significant influence on both actor and partner's loneliness stigma. Furthermore, the mediation model analysis indicated that parents' loneliness stigma, along with children's regulatory focus operate as mediators in the influence of parental regulatory focus on loneliness stigma of their college-aged offspring. CONCLUSIONS From a familial context, this study, investigated the association between regulatory focus and loneliness stigma, along with the mediating roles within parent-child groups and couples. The findings enhanced our comprehension of the interrelation between regulatory focus and loneliness stigma, underpinned by empirical evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguang Fan
- Department of Psychology, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoli Shi
- School of Education, Jilin International Studies University, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Higher Education Press, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- School of Marxism, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
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Aston M, Price S, MacLeod A, Stone K, Benoit B, Joy P, Ollivier R, Sim M, Etowa J, Jack S, Marcellus L, Iduye D. Examining How Postpartum Videoconferencing Support Sessions Can Facilitate Connections between Parents: A Poststructural and Sociomaterial Analysis. NURSING REPORTS 2024; 14:99-114. [PMID: 38251187 PMCID: PMC10801463 DOI: 10.3390/nursrep14010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Postpartum support for new parents can normalize experiences, increase confidence, and lead to positive health outcomes. While in-person gatherings may be the preferred choice, not all parents can or want to join parenting groups in person. Online asynchronous chat spaces for parents have increased over the past 10 years, especially during the COVID pandemic, when "online" became the norm. However, synchronous postpartum support groups have not been as accessible. The purpose of our study was to examine how parents experienced postpartum videoconferencing support sessions. Seven one-hour videoconferencing sessions were conducted with 4-8 parents in each group (n = 37). Nineteen parents from these groups then participated in semi-structured interviews. Feminist poststructuralism and sociomaterialism were used to guide the research process and analysis. Parents used their agency to actively think about and interact using visual (camera) and audio (microphone) technologies to navigate socially constructed online discourses. Although videoconferencing fostered supportive connections and parents felt less alone and more confident, the participants also expressed a lack of opportunities for individual conversations. Nurses should be aware of the emerging opportunities that connecting online may present. This study was not registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Aston
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (S.P.); (D.I.)
| | - Sheri Price
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (S.P.); (D.I.)
| | - Anna MacLeod
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada;
| | - Kathryn Stone
- Department of Human and Social Development, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada;
| | - Britney Benoit
- Faculty of Science, Rankin School of Nursing, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5, Canada;
| | - Phillip Joy
- Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS B3M 2J6, Canada;
| | - Rachel Ollivier
- BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada;
| | - Meaghan Sim
- Research, Innovation and Discovery, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, NS B3J 0E8, Canada;
| | - Josephine Etowa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada;
| | - Susan Jack
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada;
| | - Lenora Marcellus
- Department of Human and Social Development, School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada;
| | - Damilola Iduye
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (S.P.); (D.I.)
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9
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Mejova Y, Hommadova Lu A. Gender in the disclosure of loneliness on Twitter during COVID-19 lockdowns. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1297983. [PMID: 38125758 PMCID: PMC10731375 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1297983] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Loneliness has been shown to affect both mental and physical health, and was a major concern even before the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 distancing measures, millions of people took to social media to express their feelings and seek social support. Methods In this mixed-methods study, we examine the self-disclosure of loneliness by users identifying as male or female (via self-disclosed naming conventions) on Twitter before and during the COVID-19 "lockdowns." Results We show that in the first two months of COVID-19 restrictions, self-disclosure of loneliness on this platform rose dramatically, and also have changed qualitatively. We find that female accounts tend to post more loneliness self-disclosures compared to male ones, even before COVID. Female disclosures more often center around pregnancy, family, and close relationships, whereas those posted by the male ones are more related to leadership, video gaming and sex. During COVID lockdowns, female accounts turn to online messaging apps and hobbies, and male become increasingly vocal in seeking partners. Discussion The insights of this study have important implications for the design of interventions for lessening the burden of loneliness in the current digitized world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anya Hommadova Lu
- Communication Studies, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX, United States
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10
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MacLeod A, Aston M, Price S, Stone K, Ollivier R, Benoit B, Sim M, Marcellus L, Jack S, Joy P, Gholampourch M, Iduye D. "There's an Etiquette to Zoom That's Not Really Present In-Person": A Qualitative Study Showing How the Mute Button Shapes Virtual Postpartum Support for New Parents. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1005-1016. [PMID: 37554077 PMCID: PMC10494476 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231187541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Virtual spaces that allow parents in the postpartum period to connect, support each other, and exchange information have been increasing in popularity. With the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents had to rely on virtual platforms as a primary means to connect with others and attend to their postpartum health. This study explored virtual postpartum support sessions through the web-based videoconferencing software, Zoom. Guided by feminist poststructuralism and sociomaterialism, we held seven virtual support sessions for parents caring for a baby 0-12 months in age, in Canada, and interviewed 19 participants about their experiences in the sessions. Our methodological approach allowed us to analyze discourses of (1) parenthood, (2) material realities of virtual environments, and (3) support and information on this virtual platform. The purpose of this research was to understand how technology influences postpartum support and learning through online videoconferencing for parents. Our findings document an overarching discourse of Zoom etiquette by which muting was a discursive practice that all participants used. The consistent use of the mute button while not talking structured conversation in virtual postpartum sessions and resulted in three themes: (1) minimizing disruptions; (2) taking turns; and (3) staying on task. The norm of using the mute button changed how parents received and gave support and information. Based on findings and broader literature, we discuss considerations for facilitation of virtual postpartum support sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rachel Ollivier
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Susan Jack
- McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Phillip Joy
- Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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11
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Harris NAR, Howe-Heyman A, Barger MK. Systematic Reviews to Inform Practice, July/August 2023. J Midwifery Womens Health 2023; 68:541-547. [PMID: 37485812 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nena A R Harris
- Family Nursing, Frontier Nursing University, Versailles, Kentucky
| | - Abby Howe-Heyman
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mary K Barger
- Midwifery research and consultant, San Diego, California
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12
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Nomura S, Kisugi N, Endo K, Omori T. Parental loneliness, perceptions of parenting, and psychosocial factors among parents having new children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Glob Health Med 2023; 5:158-168. [PMID: 37397952 PMCID: PMC10311677 DOI: 10.35772/ghm.2023.01033] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Individuals who had new children during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic became parents in challenging situations, starting from pregnancy and continuing to after birth. This study aimed to clarify the characteristics of parental loneliness, perceptions of parenting, and psychosocial factors among parents having new children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants comprised a first-child group (523 parents; those who had their first child) and a second-child group (621 parents; those who had their second or subsequent child). We used web-based questionnaires to explore parental loneliness, perceptions of parenting, and psychosocial factors (distress, parental burnout, well-being, marital satisfaction, and social isolation). Participants answered the questionnaires in November 2022, during the eighth COVID-19 wave in Japan. We compared the groups and subgroups according to parental sex and determined the relationship between variables. The parents in the first-child group felt lonelier than the parents in the second-child group (p < 0.05), and their loneliness was correlated with psychosocial factors. Significantly, more mothers in the second-child group answered "agree" to negative perceptions of parenting than mothers in the first-child group. Additionally, parenting difficulties were correlated with a negative perception of parenting and parental burnout in both groups. Furthermore, providing parental support may improve parenting and promote parents' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satomi Nomura
- Department of Child Nursing, National College of Nursing, Japan, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Namiko Kisugi
- Department of Child Nursing, National College of Nursing, Japan, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazue Endo
- Department of Child Nursing, National College of Nursing, Japan, Tokyo, Japan
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13
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Loose T, Geoffroy MC, Yang AV, Coté S. Parental loneliness, parental stress and child mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: Variations by cumulative socioeconomic risk. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2023; 12:100499. [PMID: 36816511 PMCID: PMC9928609 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2023.100499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about parent and child mental health, especially within disadvantaged families. However, little is known about how parental stress and loneliness during the pandemic influenced their children and no studies have investigated if these associations could vary by socioeconomic status. Methods In July to September 2021, a large representative sample of parents (N = 4,524) in Québec (Canada) reported on aspects of their own mental health and that of their 9-10 year old child. Outcome variables were child externalizing and internalizing symptoms. Exposure variables were changes in parental loneliness and parental stress since the onset of the pandemic. The moderator variable was cumulative socioeconomic risk. Multiple linear regression analyses were executed and adjusted for confounding factors. Results Child internalizing symptoms were associated with higher levels of parental stress (β = 0.14, p<.001) and loneliness (β = 0.23, p<.001). Child externalizing symptoms were also associated with parental stress (β = 0.13, p<.001) and loneliness (β = 0.18, p<.001). Most of these associations were stronger within the most disadvantaged households. Limitations The cross-sectional design does not allow interpretations about causality. Conclusions Increases in parental stress and loneliness since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic would be detrimental to parent and child mental health. As these issues were amplified within families experiencing more socioeconomic adversities, our results can inform public policy to support families in times of crisis and direct resources to those most in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianna Loose
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montréal School of Public Health, 3050, Boul. Édouard-Montpetit, 2e Étage, A-212, Montréal, QC H3T 1J7, Canada.,CHU Ste-Justine Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Geoffroy
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Douglas Research Center and Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Adam Vanzella Yang
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montréal School of Public Health, 3050, Boul. Édouard-Montpetit, 2e Étage, A-212, Montréal, QC H3T 1J7, Canada.,CHU Ste-Justine Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvana Coté
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montréal School of Public Health, 3050, Boul. Édouard-Montpetit, 2e Étage, A-212, Montréal, QC H3T 1J7, Canada.,CHU Ste-Justine Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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14
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George-Levi S, Laslo-Roth R, Ben Yaakov L. Vulnerability to loneliness among fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder: The role of interpersonal and familial resources. FAMILY PROCESS 2023:e12877. [PMID: 36945767 DOI: 10.1111/famp.12877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might be at increased risk of becoming lonely. In the current study, we explored the differences in loneliness between fathers of children with and without ASD and identified interpersonal and familial resources (social support, family cohesion, and family adaptability) that might be related to levels of loneliness. Using a cross-sectional design, 348 fathers (of 114 children with ASD and 234 without) completed a series of questionnaires. Fathers of children with ASD reported higher levels of loneliness and lower levels of social support and family cohesion. A moderated mediation model indicated that the interaction between social support and family cohesion mediated the association between ASD group (i.e., ASD vs. non-ASD) and fathers' loneliness. Findings suggest the importance of interpersonal and familial resources (e.g., perceived social support and family cohesion) for family members at risk of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan George-Levi
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Roni Laslo-Roth
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Lital Ben Yaakov
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Peres Academic Center, Rehovot, Israel
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15
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Adlington K, Vasquez C, Pearce E, Wilson CA, Nowland R, Taylor BL, Spring S, Johnson S. 'Just snap out of it' - the experience of loneliness in women with perinatal depression: a Meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:110. [PMID: 36849948 PMCID: PMC9970854 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04532-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby is a time of great transition and upheaval. Women often experience social isolation and loneliness at this time and may develop depression, particularly in the postnatal period. Qualitative studies have reported that loneliness is also a feature of perinatal depression. However, until now there has been no attempt to synthesise research exploring the links between loneliness and perinatal depression. This study's aim was to explore existing qualitative evidence to answer two research questions: What are the experiences of loneliness for women with perinatal depression? What helps and what makes loneliness worse for women with perinatal depression? METHODS A qualitative meta-synthesis retrieved primary qualitative studies relevant to the research questions. Four electronic databases were systematically searched (Ovid MEDLINE®; PsycINFO; Embase; Web of Science). Papers were screened according to pre-defined inclusion criteria and assigned a quality score. Thematic analysis was used to identify major overarching themes in the literature. RESULTS Twenty-seven relevant qualitative studies were included. Themes relating to the interaction between perinatal depression and loneliness included self-isolation and hiding symptoms due to stigma of perinatal depression and fear of judgement as a 'bad mother'; a sudden sense of emotional disconnection after birth; and a mismatch between expected and actual support provided by partner, family and community. There was also a double burden of loneliness for women from disadvantaged communities, due to increased stigma and decreased social support. Validation and understanding from healthcare professionals, peer support from other mothers with experience of perinatal depression, and practical and emotional family support were all important factors that could ameliorate loneliness. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness appears to play a central role in the experience of perinatal depression based on the frequency with which it emerged in women's accounts. The findings provide a foundation for the development of further theories about the role of loneliness in perinatal depression and evidence in which future psychological and social intervention design processes can be rooted. Addressing stigma and offering culturally appropriate professional and peer support are potential targets for interventions that could help women with perinatal depression, particularly in disadvantaged communities, feel less lonely. TRIAL REGISTRATION Prospero registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php? RecordID = 251,936.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Adlington
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK. .,Section of Women's Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK. .,East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | | | - Eiluned Pearce
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claire A Wilson
- Section of Women's Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Nowland
- School of Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | | | | | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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16
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Kent-Marvick J, Simonsen S, Pentecost R, Taylor E, McFarland MM. Loneliness in pregnant and postpartum people and parents of children aged 5 years or younger: a scoping review. Syst Rev 2022; 11:196. [PMID: 36071448 PMCID: PMC9451126 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-02065-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite evidence that loneliness increases during times of transition, and that the incidence of loneliness is highest in young adults, loneliness during pregnancy and new parenthood has not been developed as a program of research. Because loneliness research has primarily focused on older adults and other high-risk populations, the concept of loneliness and its effects on this population are not well understood, leaving a gap in our understanding of the psychosocial needs and health risks of loneliness on pregnant people and new parents. A scoping review has been completed in order to map and synthesize the literature on loneliness experienced during pregnancy and the first 5 years of parenthood prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS To address the aim of this review, a wide net was cast in order to detect experiences of perinatal or parental loneliness and/or instances where loneliness was measured in this population. Among the inclusion criteria were loneliness in people who were pregnant, who were parents in the postpartum period, or who had children aged 5 years or younger. A search for literature was conducted in December 2020 using nine databases: MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Elsevier), SCOPUS (Elsevier), Cochrane Library including CENTRAL (Wiley), CINAHL (Ebscohost), PsycINFO (Ebscohost), Dissertations & Theses Global (ProQuest) and Sociological Abstracts (ProQuest), and the Web of Science Core Collection (Clarivate). RESULTS Perinatal and parental loneliness studies are limited and have rarely been targeted and developed through a program of research. Loneliness inquiry in this population was frequently studied in relation to other concepts of interest (e.g., postpartum depression). Alternatively, the importance of loneliness emerged from study participants as relevant to the research topic during qualitative inquiry. Across studies, the prevalence of loneliness ranged from 32 to 100%. Loneliness was commonly experienced alongside parenting difficulties, with parents feeling as though they were alone in their struggles. CONCLUSIONS As loneliness has been called a sensitive indicator of mental wellbeing, we believe screening will help healthcare professionals identify common difficulties and early signs of depression experienced during pregnancy and parenthood. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION The protocol is available on Open Science Framework at DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/BFVPZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Kent-Marvick
- University of Utah College of Nursing, University of Utah, 10 2000 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| | - Sara Simonsen
- University of Utah College of Nursing, University of Utah, 10 2000 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| | - Ryoko Pentecost
- University of Utah College of Nursing, University of Utah, 10 2000 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| | - Eliza Taylor
- University of Utah College of Nursing, University of Utah, 10 2000 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
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17
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An Exploration of Friendship and Well-Being in Established Adulthood and Midlife. JOURNAL OF ADULT DEVELOPMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10804-022-09421-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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18
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Kebede AA, Gessesse DN, Tsega NT, Aklil MB, Temesgan WZ, Abegaz MY, Anteneh TA, Tibebu NS, Alemu HN, Haile TT, Seyoum AT, Tiguh AE, Yismaw AE, Mihret MS, Nenko G, Wondie KY, Taye BT. Prevalence and factors associated with maternal loneliness during the postpartum period in Gondar city. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09891. [PMID: 35847616 PMCID: PMC9284384 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mental health problems have increased worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Currently, loneliness is widely understood as a painful subjective experience when the social connections a person has do not meet their interpersonal needs in respect to the quality or quantity of friendship or social interaction. It has been linked to unpleasant health consequences for both the mother and child. Therefore, this study aimed to assess maternal loneliness during the postpartum period and associated factors in Gondar city. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 1st to August 30th, 2021 in Gondar city. A cluster sampling technique was employed to select 858 postpartum women. Data were entered into epidemiological data (EPI data) version 4.6 and exported to SPSS 25 for further cleaning and analysis. The multivariable logistic regression analysis was fitted to identify factors associated with maternal loneliness during the postpartum period. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with its 95 % confidence interval (CI) was performed and the level of significance was claimed based on a p-value of ≤0.05. Results A total of 858 women were included in the analysis, giving a response rate of 98.4%. Two-fifths (40.9%) of the study participants have experienced loneliness during the postpartum period (95% CI: 37.6, 44.2). Low household decision-making power (AOR = 11.2; 95% CI: 7.59, 16.4) and poor social support (AOR = 2.44; 95 CI: 1.58, 3.76) were significantly associated with maternal loneliness. Conclusion In this study, 4 out of 10 women have experienced loneliness during the postpartum period. Thus, it highlights the potential risks of the mother’s loneliness on her postnatal well-being, particularly if the woman has poor social support and low household decision-making power. Encouraging women to be involved in all aspects of the household decision-making and promoting the need for social support for all women during the postpartum period may be optimal initial targets to reduce the impact of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azmeraw Ambachew Kebede
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Dereje Nibret Gessesse
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nuhamin Tesfa Tsega
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mastewal Belayneh Aklil
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Wubedle Zelalem Temesgan
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Marta Yimam Abegaz
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tazeb Alemu Anteneh
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nebiyu Solomon Tibebu
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Haymanot Nigatu Alemu
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tsion Tadesse Haile
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Asmra Tesfahun Seyoum
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Agumas Eskezia Tiguh
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayenew Engida Yismaw
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Muhabaw Shumye Mihret
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Goshu Nenko
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Kindu Yinges Wondie
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Birhan Tsegaw Taye
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Asrat Woldeyes Health Science Campus, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
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Einsamkeitserfahrungen junger Menschen – nicht nur in Zeiten der Pandemie. SOZIALE PASSAGEN 2022. [PMCID: PMC9148935 DOI: 10.1007/s12592-022-00415-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Inden vergangenen Jahren hat das Thema Einsamkeit an Raum im wissenschaftlichen und politischen Diskurs gewonnen. So gibt es inzwischen zahlreiche Forschungsarbeiten und Publikationen zu Einsamkeit im Alter, die auch in der öffentlichen und politischen Diskussion besonders wahrgenommen werden. Empirische Befunde sollen diese Wahrnehmung unterstützen. Anhand von Daten des Sozioökonomischen Panels (SOEP) aus dem Jahr 2016 unterstreicht der Dritte Teilhabebericht der Bundesregierung, dass sich 16 % der Befragten oft einsam fühlen, unter den Menschen mit Beeinträchtigungen sind es sogar 31 %. Seit der Corona-Pandemie wird aufgrund der angeordneten Regelungen zum Social Distancing eine Häufung von Einsamkeitserfahrungen festgestellt. Eine Studie des wissenschaftlichen Dienstes der EU-Kommission kam zu dem Ergebnis, dass 25 % der EU-Bürger:innen sich nach den ersten Monaten der Pandemie einsam fühlten (im Vergleich zu 12 % im Jahr 2016. Regelmäßige Befragung zu Familie, Erwerbsarbeit, Politik und u. a. Gesundheit mit ca. 15.000 teilnehmenden Haushalten bzw. 30.000 Personen.). In nordeuropäischen Ländern hat sich der Anteil der einsamen Menschen seit Beginn der Pandemie sogar vervierfacht. Nach und nach etabliert sich dabei die Erkenntnis, dass Einsamkeit auch unter jungen Menschen kein seltenes Phänomen ist, das aber in dieser Altersgruppe in der Pandemie überdurchschnittlich an Bedeutung gewinnt. Dieser Beitrag analysiert Einsamkeitserfahrungen junger Menschen insbesondere anhand der Forschungsergebnisse aus den Studien JuCo I–III zu der Lebenssituation und den Erfahrungen von Jugendlichen und jungen Erwachsenen während der Corona-Pandemie und diskutiert abschließend, welcher Forschungsbedarf sich daraus ableiten lässt.
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20
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Qualter P, Petersen K, Barreto M, Victor C, Hammond C, Arshad SA. Exploring the Frequency, Intensity, and Duration of Loneliness: A Latent Class Analysis of Data from the BBC Loneliness Experiment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12027. [PMID: 34831780 PMCID: PMC8618579 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Almost all measures of loneliness have been developed without discussing how to best conceptualize and assess the severity of loneliness. In the current study, we adapted the four-item UCLA, so that it continued to measure frequency of loneliness, but also assessed intensity and duration, providing a measure of other aspects of loneliness severity. Using data from participants resident in the UK who completed the BBC Loneliness Experiment (N = 36,767; F = 69.6%) and Latent Class Profile Analyses, we identified four groups of people who scored high on loneliness on at least one of the three severity measures. Duration of loneliness often over months or years seemed to be particularly important in distinguishing groups. Further, group membership was predicted by important demographic and psychological variables. We discuss the findings in terms of implications for research and practice. We highlight the need to explore these profiles longitudinally to investigate how membership predicts later mental and physical health, and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Qualter
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (K.P.); (S.-A.A.)
| | - Kimberly Petersen
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (K.P.); (S.-A.A.)
| | - Manuela Barreto
- Psychology Department, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK;
| | - Christina Victor
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University, London UB8 3PH, UK;
| | - Claudia Hammond
- BBC Radio 4, Broadcasting House, Portland Place, London W1A 1AA, UK;
| | - Sana-Arub Arshad
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; (K.P.); (S.-A.A.)
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