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Trotta E, Serio G, Monacis L, Carlucci L, Marinelli CV, Petito A, Celia G, Bonvino A, Calvio A, Stallone R, Esposito C, Fantinelli S, Sulla F, Di Fuccio R, Salvatore G, Quarto T, Palladino P. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian primary school children's learning: A systematic review through a psycho-social lens. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303991. [PMID: 38875255 PMCID: PMC11178219 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected many areas and contexts of today's society, including school and family. Several studies focused on the worldwide effects of school closures on students' learning outcomes, context, and well-being. However, the data emerging from these studies are often inconsistent and fragmentary, highlighting the need of a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon. This need is especially urgent for the countries with the most severe school closure, like Italy. This systematic review aims to collect the opinions of parents, teachers, and students on: other dimensions of Italian primary school students affected by school closures, beyond academic performance; hypothetical agreement between the opinions of parents, teachers, and students regarding the different effects of school closures on Italian primary school students; possible differences between the effects of school closures on Italian primary school students and the students in other countries. Our search was conducted using PRISMA 2020 guidelines on Web of Science, Pubmed, Scopus, and EBSCOHost. The results obtained from 34 articles revealed a strong concern on the part of all stakeholders involved in learning during the pandemic, with evident negative effects for Italian school students. The constraint on distance learning led to a drastic change in everyone's routine, and a negative emotional change on the part of young students. Parents and teachers generally considered distance learning to be ineffective for the education of their children and students; they encountered technical-practical difficulties in the use of electronic devices for participation in school activities; overall learning deficits on the part of students, especially in mathematics, as confirmed by INVALSI results were also found. The investigation reveals a condition of shared emotional and academic performance difficulty, and a further challenging circumstance for students previously at risk of marginalization. Further research in this field is paramount to identify new and adequate recovery strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Trotta
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Serio
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Lucia Monacis
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Leonardo Carlucci
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Annamaria Petito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanna Celia
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Aurora Bonvino
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Antonella Calvio
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Roberta Stallone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Ciro Esposito
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Sulla
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Di Fuccio
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Education and Sport, Pegaso University, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Tiziana Quarto
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Paola Palladino
- Department of Humanities (DISTUM), University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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Osman L, Whitley J. Parent perceptions of social well-being in children with special educational needs during COVID-19: A mixed-methods analysis. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13256. [PMID: 38600787 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's educational experiences worldwide have been significantly impacted as a result of global school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic of Spring 2020. A growing number of studies aim to analyse impacts of these changes on social well-being, with limited studies placing an emphasis on the experiences of students with special educational needs (SENs). This article focusses on parent perspectives regarding impacts of school closures on social well-being in Canadian children with SEN. METHODS This study uses a mixed-methods approach, drawing from both qualitative and quantitative survey data from Spring/Summer 2020. Participants (n = 263) were eligible for participation if they were a parent/guardian of a child or adolescent with an SEN. We first conducted a descriptive analysis of the key variables, namely, social well-being, grade level of the child, internet and device availability, and the presence of other school-aged children in the home (single child vs. multiple children). Next, we explored the relationship between these using a bivariate correlation. Finally, open-ended responses were analysed using an inductive approach to qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS The majority of parents expressed concern for their child's social well-being during the Spring 2020 school closures, with increased concerns for younger children. According to parents, children experienced communication barriers to peer interaction and many experienced emotional difficulties as a result. Technology was described as critical for some in maintaining social connections. Parents raised concerns about the impact of limited peer interaction on broader social skill development, in the short and long term. A small number of participants noted feelings of relief and reduced anxiety among their children with SEN. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight parent views of the negative impact of the pandemic on social well-being and the critical role in-person schooling plays in supporting peer relationships for children with SEN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Osman
- Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jess Whitley
- Faculty of Education, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Louie-Poon S, Reid K, Appiah PO, Hartling L, Scott SD. "There is a strangeness in this disease": A qualitative study of parents' experiences caring for a child diagnosed with COVID-19. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300146. [PMID: 38564592 PMCID: PMC10986929 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic marked a period of uncertainty as public health guidelines, diagnostic criteria, and testing protocols or procedures have continuously evolved. Despite the virus being declared a worldwide pandemic, little research has been done to understand how parents manage caring for their child diagnosed with COVID-19. We sought to understand parents' experiences and information need when caring for a child diagnosed with COVID-19. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study with an inductive and exploratory approach was completed. Participants were recruited through social media and local public health clinics. Data collection and analysis were concurrent. Semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted with 27 participants. Thematic analysis was conducted. FINDINGS Four major themes emerged: a) dealing with uncertainty; b) anxiety; c) social stigma and stress; d) a sense of community. CONCLUSION Our study highlights that parent experiences were diverse and multi-faceted, and their experiences evolved and shifted over the course of the pandemic. Parents would benefit from clear and consistent evidence-based online information. Understanding the perspectives of parents caring for a child with COVID-19 is an important step in developing future resources tailored to meet their unique experiences and information needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathy Reid
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Lisa Hartling
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shannon D. Scott
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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4
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Brito PKH, Soares AR, Bezerra ICDS, Reichert LP, Santos NCCDB, Collet N, Santos PFBBD, Reichert APDS. Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the use of screens in early childhood. Rev Gaucha Enferm 2023; 44:e20230012. [PMID: 38055456 DOI: 10.1590/1983-1447.2023.20230012.en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the use of digital screens in early childhood, from the perspective of mothers and education professionals. METHOD Qualitative study, based on Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Theory. Nine mothers of children under three years of age, enrolled in daycare centers in a municipality in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, and six education professionals who worked in these daycare centers participated. The data were collected between July and October 2021 via virtual interviews and analyzed according to inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS The restrictions imposed by the pandemic made screens the only available resource for children's educational activities, interaction, leisure, and distraction, causing an exponential increase in the time they spent in front of screens. CONCLUSION The pandemic had a direct impact on the use of digital screens in early childhood, increasing the child's exposure time, according to parents and education professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Karen Holanda Brito
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem. João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil
| | - Anniely Rodrigues Soares
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem. João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Neusa Collet
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem. João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil
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Testoni I, Palazzo L, Iacona E, Segalla O, Pizzolato L, Rigo M, Ferrari L. Exploring Emotions Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic through Death Education: A Qualitative Study at Italian Primary Schools. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2023; 13:1920-1936. [PMID: 37754478 PMCID: PMC10528353 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe13090139] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of individuals, families, and children worldwide. In Italy, the implementation of measures such as lockdowns and distance learning in schools affected the mental health of children and families. METHODS This article employs a qualitative method to explore the efficacy of a death education project that aimed to help primary school children process the emotions and losses that they experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study encompassed both the children who took part in the death education project and their teachers and parents to investigate their perspectives on the emotions of the minors and the effectiveness of the project. RESULTS Distance learning posed challenges for the learning process and exacerbated social inequalities. The children suffered from limited social contact with their friends and experienced negative emotions, including anger, fear, and concern for the health of their loved ones. The death education project provided a safe space for children's emotional expression and facilitated their acquisition of coping strategies. Open communication between adults and children about illness and death proved effective in mitigating the psychological impacts of loss and preventing traumatic bereavement. CONCLUSION The findings highlight the utility of death education in enhancing children's ability to express their emotions and approach the topic of death more frankly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Testoni
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
- Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
| | - Lorenza Palazzo
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
| | - Erika Iacona
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
| | - Ottavia Segalla
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
| | - Laura Pizzolato
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
| | - Matteo Rigo
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
| | - Lea Ferrari
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology (FISPPA), University of Padova, 35139 Padova, Italy; (L.P.); (E.I.); (O.S.); (L.P.); (M.R.); (L.F.)
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Pediconi MG, Brunori M, Romani S. Back to School after Corona Virus Disease of 2019: New Relationships, Distance Schooling, and Experienced Routine. CONTINUITY IN EDUCATION 2023; 4:105-125. [PMID: 38774900 PMCID: PMC11104357 DOI: 10.5334/cie.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
The Corona Virus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has upset the students' daily routine, forcing them at first into a sudden transition to distance learning and then to a return to school modelled on the basis of infection containment measures. The present research involved 157 students from schools in central Italy with a mean age of 13.58 years old to investigate the affective impact of the pandemic on the school experience and its components (recess, oral testing, relationships with classmates, and relationship pupils-teachers). The results show that only a few have experienced school interruption in a traumatic way: they have appreciated neither distance learning, nor the return to school; for these teenagers, the school of the past has died. Other adolescents and pre-adolescents tried to replace the face-to-face mode with distance learning, maintaining certain attention to the school even during the quarantine. However, the online mode did not keep its promise. Those who have invested more in digital innovation find it difficult to return to normality today. For all of them, socialization mediated by school experience is decisive in supporting the return to ordinary life after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michela Brunori
- Department of Economics Society Politics (DESP), University of Urbino, Urbino, IT
| | - Savino Romani
- Department of Economics Society Politics (DESP), University of Urbino, Urbino, IT
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7
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Cortés-Albornoz MC, Ramírez-Guerrero S, García-Guáqueta DP, Vélez-Van-Meerbeke A, Talero-Gutiérrez C. Effects of remote learning during COVID-19 lockdown on children's learning abilities and school performance: A systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2023; 101:102835. [PMID: 37361921 PMCID: PMC10266495 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2023.102835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review describes the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on children's learning and school performance. A systematic search was conducted using three databases. A total of 1787 articles were found, and 24 articles were included. Overall, academic performance was negatively affected by COVID-19 lockdowns, with lower scores in standardized tests in the main domains compared to previous years. Academic, motivational, and socio-emotional factors contributed to lower performance. Educators, parents, and students reported disorganization, increased academic demands, and motivational and behavioral changes. Teachers and policymakers should consider these results in developing future education strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María C Cortés-Albornoz
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencia (NeURos), Centro NeURovitae, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Sofía Ramírez-Guerrero
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencia (NeURos), Centro NeURovitae, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Danna P García-Guáqueta
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencia (NeURos), Centro NeURovitae, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Alberto Vélez-Van-Meerbeke
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencia (NeURos), Centro NeURovitae, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
| | - Claudia Talero-Gutiérrez
- Grupo de Investigación en Neurociencia (NeURos), Centro NeURovitae, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111711, Colombia
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8
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Tiberio L, Massullo C, Carrus G, Mastandrea S, Fagioli S. Impact of COVID-19 on Mothers Raising Children with Special Needs: Insights from a Survey Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5363. [PMID: 37629405 PMCID: PMC10455744 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165363] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Home confinement during the COVID-19 outbreak had psychological effects that continue to be explored by researchers. This study investigated factors influencing the mental health of mothers caring for special needs children in Italy's first lockdown. Specifically, we investigated the relationships between emotional states of depression, anxiety, stress, perceived distress related to home confinement, coping strategies, and other contextual variables (such as opportunities for distance learning and remote working) in a group of 68 mothers of children with special needs and 68 matched mothers of typically developing children. Data from an online survey showed no significant difference between the two groups. However, the research revealed that being a remote worker was a significant predictor of reduced stress in mothers of children with special needs, while distance learning was a significant predictor of reduced stress in mothers of typically developing children. In addition, the study found that hyperarousal symptoms were predictive of stress in mothers of children with special needs, while intrusive thoughts and avoidance coping were predictive of stress in mothers of typically developing children. In conclusion, further research is needed to develop effective support and intervention strategies for families with children with special needs and to deeply investigate the impact of flexible work arrangements and social aid on the mental health of mothers in non-emergency settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sabrina Fagioli
- Laboratory of Experimental Psychology, Department of Education, “Roma Tre” University, via del Castro Pretorio 20, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.T.); (C.M.); (G.C.); (S.M.)
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9
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Wang JK, Xue HQ, Wu XF. Mental health and academic achievement among Chinese adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic: The mediating role of self-regulation learning. SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY OF EDUCATION 2023; 26:1-15. [PMID: 37362053 PMCID: PMC10041494 DOI: 10.1007/s11218-023-09772-4] [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: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The changes that COVID-19 pandemic has brought upon the world are unprecedented. Its impact on students' learning is equally profound, making it critical to heed students' academic achievement effects that may derive from these alterations. Therefore, the present study explored an integrative model of mental health, self-regulated learning and academic achievement among adolescents during the pandemic. Participants were 1001 senior high school students (Mage = 17.00, SDage = 0.78, 48.7% female) from China. Results showed that the degree to which students were mentally healthy was not significantly related to academic achievement, whereas academic achievement and mental health were positively associated with self-regulated learning. Following structural equation modelling analysis, the effect of mental health on academic achievement was fully mediated by self-regulated learning. Taken together, the findings emphasised the necessity of developing self-regulated learning strategies during public health emergencies and have clinical and educational implications for planning psychological interventions in order to improve mental health and academic performance as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Kai Wang
- School of Psychology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui-Qin Xue
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Wu
- Department of Psychology, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Penna AL, de Aquino CM, Pinheiro MSN, do Nascimento RLF, Farias-Antúnez S, Araújo DABS, Mita C, Machado MMT, Castro MC. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices: a global scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:388. [PMID: 36823592 PMCID: PMC9950022 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), generating stark economic and social repercussions that directly or indirectly affected families' wellbeing and health status. AIMS This review aims at mapping the existing evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices, worldwide, to identify evidence gaps and better inform future delivery of care and health policy measures. METHODS Following the protocol defined by PRISMA-ScR, this scoping review has searched for relevant studies published between January 2020 and June 2021, selecting evidence sources based on pre-established criteria. From a total of 2,308 articles, data were extracted from 537 publications from 35 countries on all three health domains. RESULTS The combined stressors brought forth by the pandemic have exerted a heavy burden on the mental health of mothers and the development of young children, partly mediated by its impact on parental practices. CONCLUSIONS Despite remaining gaps, we have identified sufficient evidence pointing to an urgent need for more concerted global research efforts and rapid policy responses to timely address severe and pervasive negative impacts to the mental health of mothers and children at a key developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Penna
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
| | - Camila Machado de Aquino
- grid.8395.70000 0001 2160 0329Department of Community Health, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - Simone Farias-Antúnez
- grid.411237.20000 0001 2188 7235Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Brazil
| | | | - Carol Mita
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XCountway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | - Marcia C. Castro
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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Borgonovi F, Ferrara A. COVID-19 and inequalities in educational achievement in Italy. RESEARCH IN SOCIAL STRATIFICATION AND MOBILITY 2023; 83:100760. [PMID: 36718414 PMCID: PMC9876017 DOI: 10.1016/j.rssm.2023.100760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We use longitudinal data from over 1.5 million Italian students to examine differences in the mathematics and reading achievement of students who completed primary and lower secondary school in 2020-21 (COVID cohort) and those who completed it in 2018-19 (non-COVID cohort). We also examine the evolution of inequalities by gender, socio-economic condition, and prior academic achievement during the pandemic. On average, the primary school COVID cohort experienced a small increase in reading achievement and a drop in mathematics achievement compared to the non-COVID cohort. The lower secondary school COVID cohort experienced a large reduction in mathematics achievement and a smaller reduction in reading achievement compared to the non-COVID cohort. Previously middle-achieving students suffered the most from the pandemic, while high achievers gained. Socio-economic inequalities in achievement remained stable for secondary school students and somewhat decreased for primary school students between the non-COVID and COVID cohorts. Gender disparities were broadly reduced across domains and school levels, except for primary school math.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Borgonovi
- University College London, Social Research Insitute, Centre for Skills, UK
- Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Centre for Skills, France
| | - Alessandro Ferrara
- European University Institute (EUI), Department of Social and Political Sciences, San Domenico di Fiesole, Italy
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12
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Doz E, Cuder A, Caputi M, Pellizzoni S, Passolunghi MC. Distance learning environment: perspective of Italian primary and secondary teachers during COVID-19 pandemic. LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH 2022; 26:555-571. [PMID: 36590088 PMCID: PMC9793392 DOI: 10.1007/s10984-022-09451-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
School closures because of the COVID-19 emergency forced a rapid transition to distance learning worldwide. In this study, we investigated teachers' experiences with distance learning during the first Italian lockdown. A sample of 270 primary and secondary teachers answered a semi-structured questionnaire administered between April and May 2020. Didactic modalities, students' and teachers' difficulties with distance learning, and teachers' feelings during school closure were investigated through open-ended questions. Content analysis indicated that most teachers adopted both synchronous and asynchronous modalities, which resembled the traditional classroom learning environment. Moreover, technological weaknesses (lack of proper digital equipment and poor digital skills) and lack of interactions appeared to be the main threats to the quality of distance learning. The implementation of distance learning in primary schools emerged as more challenging than in secondary education. Furthermore, most teachers experienced negative feelings during online teaching. However, 13% of the sample reported a sense of resilience and opportunity. Particularly, older teachers reported more resilience compared with younger teachers, indicating the importance of experience in managing stressful teaching events. Overall, findings suggest that-in this novel educational environment-teachers' role has changed significantly, placing strong emphasis on the ability to encourage communication, discussion, and contact with students. Future work should focus on how information and communications technology could sustain meaningful interactions between students and teachers, especially in primary education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Doz
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cuder
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marcella Caputi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Wong TKY, Colasante T, Malti T. Daily COVID-19 Stressor Effects on Children's Mental Health Depend on Pre-pandemic Peer Victimization and Resting Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2022:10.1007/s10578-022-01476-8. [PMID: 36484884 PMCID: PMC9735162 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01476-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Children's risk of poorer mental health due to the COVID-19 pandemic may depend on risk and protective factors heading into the pandemic. This study examined same-day associations between COVID-19 stressors and children's mental health using a daily diary design across 14 days, and considered the moderating roles of pre-pandemic peer victimization experiences and resting respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA; an indicator of cardiac regulatory capacity). Forty-nine Canadian children aged 8-13 years (Mage = 10.69, 29 girls) participated in the final wave of a longitudinal study just prior to the pandemic and a daily diary extension during the pandemic (N = 686 pandemic measurement occasions). Multilevel modeling indicated that children had poorer mental health on days when they experienced a COVID-19 stressor (e.g., virtual academic difficulties, social isolation). A three-way interaction indicated that this association was stronger for those with higher pre-pandemic peer victimization experiences and lower pre-pandemic resting RSA; however, highly victimized children with higher resting RSA did not experience poorer mental health on days with COVID-19 stressors. Findings offer preliminary insights into the preceding risk and protective factors for children's mental health amidst major subsequent stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy K Y Wong
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Child Development, Mental Health, and Policy, University of Toronto, Deerfield Hall, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.
| | - Tyler Colasante
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Child Development, Mental Health, and Policy, University of Toronto, Deerfield Hall, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Tina Malti
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Child Development, Mental Health, and Policy, University of Toronto, Deerfield Hall, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
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Sygit-Kowalkowska E, Piotrowski A, Boe O, Rawat S, Minic J, Predoiu A, Predoiu R, Vazne Ž, Fernate A, Malinauskas R, Phuc Nguyen N, Blenkinsopp J, Martinská M. Evaluation of Work Mode and Its Importance for Home-Work and Work-Home Relationships: The Role of Resilience, Coping with Stress, and Passion for Work. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14491. [PMID: 36361368 PMCID: PMC9657361 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated and facilitated the introduction of telework in organizations. This has also impacted the workers' relationship between work and private life. The aim of the current study was to examine the links between resilience and mode of work (stationary vs. remote) and the work-home and home-work relationships, and whether they are mediated by passion for work and strategies of coping with stress. The study was carried out on a sample of 1251 participants from Great Britain, India, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, and Vietnam. The following measures were used: The Survey Work-Home Interaction, The Brief Resilience Coping Scale, The Passion Scale, and the Brief COPE. Results showed that the more stationary the mode of work, the lower the intensity of the negative influence of personal life on work. Resilience was revealed to have a positive effect on worker functioning. The study also showed a relationship between education and gender and passion for work. Finally, the importance of furthering the knowledge on the home-work and work-home relationships among teleworkers is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Sygit-Kowalkowska
- Department of Psychology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Leopolda Staffa 1 St., 85-867 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Andrzej Piotrowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Gdańsk, Jana Bażyńskiego 4 St., 80-309 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ole Boe
- Department of Organisation, Leadership and Management, Inland School of Business and Social Sciences, 2450 Rena, Norway
- Institute of Psychology, Oslo New University College, 0456 Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Jelena Minic
- Faculty of Philosophy, University of Priština, 38220 Mitrovica, Serbia
| | - Alexandra Predoiu
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, National University of Physical Education and Sports, 060057 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Radu Predoiu
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, National University of Physical Education and Sports, 060057 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Žermēna Vazne
- Department of Sport and Training Theory, Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Brivibas Gatve 333, LV-1006 Riga, Latvia
| | - Andra Fernate
- Department of Sport and Training Theory, Latvian Academy of Sport Education, Brivibas Gatve 333, LV-1006 Riga, Latvia
| | - Romualdas Malinauskas
- Department of Physical and Social Education, Lithuanian Sports University, Sporto g. 6, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Nguyen Phuc Nguyen
- Faculty of Business Administration, University of Economics—The University of Danang, 71 Ngu Hanh Son, Danang City 550000, Vietnam
| | - John Blenkinsopp
- Institute of Psychology, Oslo New University College, 0456 Oslo, Norway
| | - Mária Martinská
- Department of Social Science and Languages, Armed Forces Academy of M.R. Štefánik, Demänová 393, 031 01 Liptovský Mikuláš, Slovakia
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15
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Chen CY, Chen JS, Lin CY, Hsiao RC, Tsai CS, Yen CF. Difficulties in Managing Children's Learning among Caregivers of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Taiwan: Association with Worsened Behavioral and Emotional Symptoms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13722. [PMID: 36360603 PMCID: PMC9659146 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113722] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
School closures during the COVID-19 pandemic have interfered with children's learning. The aim of this study was to investigate the difficulties in managing children's learning at home and attending afterschool learning programs and their related factors among caregivers of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 252 caregivers of children with ADHD completed a questionnaire collecting difficulties in managing children's learning, parenting styles, children's worsened symptoms of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and emotion, and increased Internet use. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the factors related to caregiver difficulties in managing children's learning and children's worsened ADHD, ODD, and emotional symptoms. In total, 85.3% of the caregivers had difficulty in asking their children to learn at home; 28.2% had difficulty in taking children to afterschool learning programs. Children's worsened anger was significantly associated with higher caregiver difficulty in asking children to learn at home, whereas parental overprotection was significantly associated with lower caregiver difficulty in asking children to learn at home. Worsened hyperactivity and opposition were significantly associated with higher caregiver difficulty in taking children to attend afterschool learning programs. Interventions for enhancing caregivers' skills to manage children's learning and children's behavioral and emotional symptoms should take the related factors found in this study into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ying Chen
- School of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine/Pediatric, New Taipei City Tucheng Hospital (Chang Gung Medical Foundation), New Taipei City 23652, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Sheng Chen
- Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Ray C. Hsiao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98295, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Seattle Children’s, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Ching-Shu Tsai
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical Center, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Fang Yen
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80756, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- College of Professional Studies, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
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16
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Spina G, Roversi M, Marchili MR, Raucci U, Fini F, Mirra G, Testa G, Guarnieri B, Clemente A, Diamanti A, Zanna V, Castiglioni MC, Vicari S, Reale A, Villani A. Psychiatric comorbidities and dehydration are more common in children admitted to the emergency department for eating disorders in the COVID-19 era. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:2473-2480. [PMID: 35294772 PMCID: PMC8925290 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01386-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and home confinement had a significant impact on children, especially on those with eating disorders (ED). The primary objective of this retrospective study was to describe and analyze the demographic and clinical profiles of children presenting with ED during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of clinical charts of patients with ED younger than 18 years who accessed the emergency department of the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, between March 2019 and March 2021. Of these, we reported and compared the demographic, clinical and laboratory data before and after the COVID-19 pandemic and looked for predictors of ED severity. RESULTS A total of 211 admissions for ED were recorded. The patients, mostly females (86.3%) were on average 14.1 years old. The mean weight loss on admission was 11 kg. Bradycardia was observed in 31.3% of the study sample. 16.6% of patients had an associated psychiatric disorder and 60.2% required psychotropic drugs. 68.7% of the patients required hospitalization. Respectively, 96 and 115 patients were admitted before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The latter were hospitalized more (78.3 vs 57.3%; p = 0.001), yet for less time (19 vs 26 days; p = 0.004), had a higher mean serum creatinine (0.68 vs 0.47; p < 0.001) and were more frequently diagnosed with an associated psychiatric disorder (23.5 vs 8.3%; p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Our study shows a significant increase of hospitalizations of children with ED during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a shorter length of stay, more psychiatric comorbidities, and some distinctive features at the laboratory work-up, such as an increase of serum creatinine and/or a reduction of serum albumin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III, evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Spina
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Roversi
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Marchili
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Raucci
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fini
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Mirra
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Testa
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Guarnieri
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Clemente
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Diamanti
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Zanna
- Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders Unit, Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Castiglioni
- Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders Unit, Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Head Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Child Neuropsychiatry Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Reale
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Villani
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Remote Learning Experience and Adolescents' Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: What Does the Future Hold? CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9091346. [PMID: 36138655 PMCID: PMC9498067 DOI: 10.3390/children9091346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background. Major shifts within the education system have taken place during the COVID-19 pandemic; frontal teaching was often replaced with remote learning, which has affected students in many ways. We investigated the associations and predictors of perceptions of the remote learning experience on well-being (life satisfaction, self-rated health, psychosomatic, and psychological symptoms). Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional research study consisting of 1019 school students in Israel aged 11−18 (53.5% girls, 46.7% boys). Questionnaires were distributed from May−July 2021 during school time. The percentages of participants with various levels of well-being (WB) and remote learning experience were compared. Multiple regression procedures were used to analyze factors predicting wellbeing. Results. All of the remote learning items had statistically significant positive correlations with life satisfaction and self-rated health (i.e., better overall WB was associated with a more positive perception of the remote learning experience). Male gender, high socioeconomic status, greater involvement in lessons in the past year, and connection to the pedagogical team/school and peers predicted better overall WB (F-ratio = 14.03; p < 0.01; adjusted R2 = 0.08). Conclusions. Our results highlight the need for schools to target youths’ coping skills, which may lead to better remote learning experiences. These findings also provide several implications for the need to support children and adolescents through positive activities, relaxation/mindfulness, and cognitive coping to deal with the psychosomatic symptoms during remote learning periods.
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18
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Trumello C, Ballarotto G, Ricciardi P, Paciello M, Marino V, Morelli M, Tambelli R, Babore A. Mothers and fathers of pre-school children: a study on parenting stress and child's emotional-behavioral difficulties. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-12. [PMID: 36035250 PMCID: PMC9395769 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03599-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to analyze the differences between maternal and paternal parenting stress and children's behavioral functioning, as determined by teacher and parent reports. In addition, it sought to evaluate the presence of clusters based on parenting stress and to determine whether perceptions of children's behavioral functioning varied across these clusters. The sample was composed of the parents and teachers of N = 201 children. Parents completed a self-report questionnaire on parenting stress and parents and teachers filled out report-form questionnaires assessing children's emotional and behavioral functioning. The results showed that mothers had higher levels of parenting stress than fathers, and both parents reported more prosocial behavior in children than did teachers. Furthermore, middle stressed parents had children who expressed more prosocial behavior than did parents in other clusters. The findings also showed that parenting stress influenced partners' perceptions of children's behavioral functioning. The multiplicity of child observers facilitated a better understanding of how parenting stress, linked to parent-child interactions, may play an important role in shaping parents' perceptions of their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Trumello
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giulia Ballarotto
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Piera Ricciardi
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Marinella Paciello
- Faculty of Psychology, International Telematic University Uninettuno, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Marino
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
| | - Mara Morelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Renata Tambelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, via degli Apuli 1, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Babore
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, University G. d’Annunzio of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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Freitas BHBMD, Gaíva MAM, Diogo PMJ, Bortolini J. Relationship between Lifestyle and Self-Reported Smartphone Addiction in adolescents in the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 65:82-90. [PMID: 35331609 PMCID: PMC8936953 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES 1) To verify the association between Lifestyle and Self-Reported Smartphone Addiction in adolescents; and 2) to analyze the adolescents' perception of this relationship in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A mixed-methods research study with a sequential and explanatory design, developed with Brazilian adolescents aged between 15 and 18 years old. In the first phase, a quantitative, observational and cross-sectional study was carried out with 479 participants and, in the second, a qualitative approach of an exploratory and descriptive nature, with 16 participants. RESULTS An association was verified between Lifestyle and Self-Reported Smartphone Addiction by adolescents (p < 0.01), with a large size effect (d=0.98). All the domains related to lifestyle were associated with Self-Reported Smartphone Addiction, with greater effects evidenced in the following aspects: high effect for sleep, seat belt, stress and safe sex (d=0.85); and moderate effect for insight (d=0.74) and career (d=0.71). Subsequently, the qualitative analysis resulted in a category that describes how the adolescents understand this relationship in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION More problematic lifestyles were evidenced among the adolescents classified as dependent. In addition to that, it was understood that the COVID-19 pandemic exerted a considerable impact on the lifestyle and behavior established by the adolescents with their smartphones. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PRACTICE Nurses and other health professionals are essential in the promotion of healthy lifestyles and adaptive behavior in smartphone use, especially in the face of this pandemic scenario and, thus, mitigating the harms to the adolescents' health.
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Lakhdir MPA, Peerwani G, Azam SI, Ali Nathwani A, Iqbal R, Asad N. Burden and factors associated with perceived stress amidst COVID-19: a population web-based study in Pakistan. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058234. [PMID: 35705331 PMCID: PMC9204017 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the burden and factors associated with perceived stress in the Pakistani population amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. SETTING A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to August 2020. POPULATION This survey was broadcasted on the web using a Google form link and 1654 Pakistani residents had completed this survey. Individuals belonging to any province, city, village, or district of Pakistan irrespective of any age, having internet access and a link of Google form, with English/Urdu competency, consent to participate, and currently residing in Pakistan were eligible to participate. OUTCOME MEASURE Perceived stress was measured using a validated tool of perceived stress scale-10. Multiple ordinal regression was used, and an adjusted OR along with a 95% CI are reported. RESULTS The mean score of perceived stress was 19.32 (SD ±6.67). Most of the participants screened positive for moderate (69%) and high levels (14%) of stress, respectively. The odds of high-perceived stress among severely anxious participants were 44.67 (95% CI: 21.33 to 93.53) times than participants with no/minimal generalised anxiety during the complete lockdown. However, the odds of high levels of perceived stress among moderately anxious respondents were 15.79 (95% CI: 10.19 to 24.28) times compared with participants with no/minimal anxiety during the smart lockdown. CONCLUSION This study evidence that the pandemic was highly distressing for the Pakistani population causing the maximum level of perceived stress in more than half of the population. Adequate and timely interventions are needed before high-stress levels culminate into psychological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ghazal Peerwani
- Department of Community Health Sciences, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Iqbal Azam
- Department of Community Health Sciences, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Apsara Ali Nathwani
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Romaina Iqbal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Nargis Asad
- Department of Psychiatry, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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21
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Berry E, Jenkins C, Allen S. Facilitators and barriers to social distancing for young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:891. [PMID: 35509096 PMCID: PMC9067891 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13325-3] [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: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social (or physical) distancing is an important transmission-prevention behaviour that has been endorsed to minimize COVID-19 transmission. This qualitative study explores the facilitators of and barriers to social distancing for young people during the COVID-19 pandemic, with recognition that young people represent a unique demographic group, with differing psychosocial needs and experiences to other age cohorts. METHODS Qualitative data was collected as part of a larger Qualtrics survey between July 28th 2020 and August 24th 2020. Eligible participants were young people living on the Island of Ireland, aged 16-25 years. The survey design was underpinned by the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation model of behaviour change (COM-B). Semi-inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse comments collected via three free-text survey items. The COM-B model provided a thematic framework to organise subthemes extracted. RESULTS A total of N = 477 young people completed the survey, of which N = 347 provided comments for at least one of three free-text survey items. The majority of respondents lived in Northern Ireland (96%), the average age was 21 years, and most respondents were female (73%) and were students (81%). Key barriers identified included lack of environmental support for social distancing (lack of physical Opportunity to social distance), observing other people not social distancing (lack of social Opportunities supporting social distancing), and missing physical interaction from others (relating to the dissuading influence of automatic Motivational factors i.e. the influence of loneliness). Key facilitators included presence of clear and consistent environmental cues and availability of space to support social distancing (increasing physical Opportunity to social distance), increasing awareness and perceived consequences of risk of transmission (enhancing reflective Motivational factors i.e. perceived benefits (versus costs) of social distancing), and increasing opportunities to observe others' adhering to guidelines (increasing social Opportunities supporting social distancing). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the actions and endorsement of peers and the physical design of environments have a key role in influencing social distancing behaviour among young people living in NI. The COM-B factors identified in this study can inform the development of tailored interventions using models such as the Behaviour Change Wheel. The findings of this study suggest that intervention functions based on peer modelling and physical environmental restructuring and enablement should be priortitised, however it is imperative that interventions are co-designed with young people to foster collaboration and empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Berry
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
| | - Chris Jenkins
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Sarah Allen
- Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency, Northern Ireland Civil Service, Belfast, Northern Ireland
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22
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Tessarollo V, Scarpellini F, Costantino I, Cartabia M, Canevini MP, Bonati M. Distance Learning in Children with and without ADHD: A Case-control Study during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Atten Disord 2022; 26:902-914. [PMID: 34388941 DOI: 10.1177/10870547211027640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This research involved the parents of ADHD students to explore how their children coped with online distance learning during COVID-19 pandemic and what implications this schooling method had on their emotional and behavioral well-being. METHOD Data were collected during lockdown using an online questionnaire addressed to 100 mothers and were compared with 184 matched controls from a national survey launched in the same period. RESULTS Attention span, spontaneous commitment, and autonomy in distance learning was found to be more limited in ADHD group. Compared to controls, 21.7% of ADHD students were not assessed and 40.9% did not receive grades. Behavioral changes were reported in both groups (64.2%), represented mainly by restlessness, aggressiveness, and anxiety. CONCLUSION Distance education increases academic difficulties, especially in ADHD pupils. The effects of lockdown should be adequately evaluated upon school reopening and appropriate recovery interventions should be planned.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Massimo Cartabia
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Bonati
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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Brown T, Lynch H. Remote learning, telehealth, tele-early intervention, school-based telerehabilitation: The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on children's occupational repertoires and routines. Aust Occup Ther J 2022; 69:113-116. [PMID: 35293619 PMCID: PMC9111304 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ted Brown
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University Peninsula Campus, Frankston, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Lynch
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Kromydas T, Campbell M, Chambers S, Boon MH, Pearce A, Wells V, Craig P. The effect of school summer holidays on inequalities in children and young people's mental health and cognitive ability in the UK using data from the millennium cohort study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:154. [PMID: 35065629 PMCID: PMC8782677 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12540-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Summer learning loss has been the subject of longstanding concern among researchers, the public and policy makers. The aim of the current research was to investigate inequality changes in children's mental health and cognitive ability across the summer holidays. METHODS We conducted linear and logistic regression analysis of mental health (borderline-abnormal total difficulty and prosocial scores on the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ)) and verbal cognitive ability (reading, verbal reasoning or vocabulary) at ages 7, 11 and 14, comparing UK Millennium Cohort Study members who were interviewed before and after the school summer holidays. Inequalities were assessed by including interaction terms in the outcome models between a discrete binary variable with values representing time periods and maternal academic qualifications. Coefficients of the interaction terms were interpreted as changes from the pre- to post-holiday period in the extent of inequality in the outcome between participants whose mothers had high or low educational qualifications. Separate models were fitted for each age group and outcome. We used inverse probability weights to allow for differences in the characteristics of cohort members assessed before and after the summer holidays. RESULTS Mental health (borderline/abnormal SDQ total and prosocial scores) at ages 7 and 14 worsened and verbal cognitive ability scores at age 7 were lower among those surveyed after the summer holidays. Mental health inequalities were larger after the holidays at age 7 ([OR = 1.4; 95%CI (0.6, 3.2) and 14: [OR = 1.5; 95%CI (0.7, 3.2)], but changed little at age 11 (OR = 0.9; 95%CI (0.4, 2.6)]. There were differences in pro-social behaviours among those surveyed before/after the school holidays at age 14 [OR = 1.2; 95%CI (0.5, 3.5)] but not at age 7 or 11. There was little change in inequalities in verbal cognitive ability scores over the school holidays [Age 7: b = 1.3; 95%CI (- 3.3, 6.0); Age 11: b = - 0.7; 95%CI (- 4.3, 2.8); Age 14: b = - 0.3; 95%CI (- 1.0, 0.4)]. CONCLUSION We found inequalities in mental health and cognitive ability according to maternal education, and some evidence or worsening mental health and mental health inequalities across school summer holidays. We found little evidence of widening inequalities in verbal cognitive ability. Widespread school closures during the COVID-19 restrictions have prompted concerns that prolonged closures may widen health and educational inequalities. Management of school closures should focus on preventing or mitigating inequalities that may arise from differences in the support for mental health and learning provided during closures by schools serving more or less disadvantaged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theocharis Kromydas
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK.
| | - Mhairi Campbell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Stephanie Chambers
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Michele Hilton Boon
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Anna Pearce
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Valerie Wells
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Peter Craig
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Berkeley Square, 99 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
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Suyadi, Selvi ID. Online learning and child abuse: the COVID-19 pandemic impact on work and school from home in Indonesia. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08790. [PMID: 35111983 PMCID: PMC8790497 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e08790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Indonesian government has made a policy requiring parents and children to work and study from home (WFH) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although this policy was meant to limit the spread of the virus and its effects, it has caused psychological trauma, increased stress on parents, and raised child abuse. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the issue of child abuse during online learning, its underlying factors, and its implications on children's mental health. A descriptive qualitative method was used along with a survey technique utilizing Google Forms, involving 317 parents as respondents. The results showed that there was physical, emotional, and verbal child abuse and negligence during online learning. This happened because children were often assumed of neglecting studies and misusing gadgets. Furthermore, the stress levels in parents increased due to the dual role, i.e, working and being teachers at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyadi
- UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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Diamond G, Merrick J. Editorial: Children's neurodevelopment in the post-COVID era: From hospital to community. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:976884. [PMID: 36313881 PMCID: PMC9597300 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.976884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Diamond
- Alyn Hospital for Children's Rehabilitation, Jerusalem, Israel.,Clalit Health Services, Children's Developmental Services: Jaljulya-Kfar Kasem and Ramleh Centers, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Joav Merrick
- National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Jerusalem, Israel.,Department of Pediatrics, Mt Scopus Campus, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Kentucky Children's Hospital, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Center for Healthy Development, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Panagouli E, Stavridou A, Savvidi C, Kourti A, Psaltopoulou T, Sergentanis TN, Tsitsika A. School Performance among Children and Adolescents during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:1134. [PMID: 34943330 PMCID: PMC8700572 DOI: 10.3390/children8121134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As a result of COVID-19 restrictions, conventional ways of schooling were not possible, and in order to continue the educational process new digital resources, such as online learning platforms, were imposed. Although virtual courses provided high-quality educational material, the efficiency in children's and adolescents' academic performance in general is yet to be known. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine whether the academic performance of school-aged students was impacted or not through online learning and modified educational methods during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. According to the studies, either students suffered from learning losses comparing to pre-pandemic years or, in some cases, they benefited from online learning, especially in mathematics. Younger students and students with neurodevelopmental disorders or special education needs seemed to suffer more. Parents/caregivers reported that their children's performance deteriorated, while others thought that online learning was beneficial. Teachers also reported that students presented academic gaps and difficulties in mathematics and reading compared to typical years. Consequently, the new ways of schooling imposed by the restrictions have not been fully tested and the impact cannot be described thoroughly. The investment in technological equipment in schools for the majority of students, along with the training of teachers in digital competence, should be a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Panagouli
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Androniki Stavridou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Christina Savvidi
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Anastasia Kourti
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Theodora Psaltopoulou
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, “Alexandra” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theodoros N. Sergentanis
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, “Alexandra” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Artemis Tsitsika
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.P.); (A.S.); (C.S.); (A.K.); (T.N.S.)
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Reading Skills of Children with Dyslexia Improved Less Than Expected during the COVID-19 Lockdown in Italy. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8070560. [PMID: 34209810 PMCID: PMC8307205 DOI: 10.3390/children8070560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Following school closures due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, for some months, children received only distance learning. The effects of this approach, however, are not clear for children with dyslexia. We conducted a cross-sectional comparison between children with and without dyslexia after the so-called "lockdown" and a comparison between pre- and post-lockdown parameters in children with dyslexia. We recruited sixty-five children with dyslexia (dyslexia group, DG) from an outpatient facility in Pavia (Lombardy, Italy) and fifty-two children without specific learning disabilities as the control group (CG) from summer camps in the same province. We performed neuropsychological tests to explore reading skills and an ad hoc questionnaire to explore how parents and children had experienced the measures taken to reduce spreading of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Between 59 to 63% of children with dyslexia did not reach the average expected increase of reading skills. According to their parents, they also showed greater social isolation and fewer worries about the pandemic and the school's closure. Our data indicate that children with dyslexia are at increased risk of consequences on their learning potential in case of school closure. They also seem to have a peculiar psychological experience of school closure. Specific interventions should therefore be provided to minimize the risk of negative effects on global development.
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Children and Adolescents with Disabilities and Exposure to Disasters, Terrorism, and the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Scoping Review. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2021; 23:80. [PMID: 34643813 PMCID: PMC8511280 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-021-01295-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This paper reviews the empirical literature on exposures to disaster or terrorism and their impacts on the health and well-being of children with disabilities and their families since the last published update in 2017. We also review the literature on studies examining the mental health and functioning of children with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. RECENT FINDINGS Few studies have examined the effects of disaster or terrorism on children with disabilities. Research shows that children with disabilities and their families have higher levels of disaster exposure, lower levels of disaster preparedness, and less recovery support due to longstanding discriminatory practices. Similarly, many reports of the COVID-19 pandemic have documented its negative and disproportionate impacts on children with disabilities and their families. In the setting of climate change, environmental disasters are expected to increase in frequency and severity. Future studies identifying mitigating factors to disasters, including COVID-19; increasing preparedness on an individual, community, and global level; and evaluating post-disaster trauma-informed treatment practices are imperative to support the health and well-being of children with disabilities and their families.
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