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Jetiyanuwat S, Kawilapat S, Narkpongphun A, Pojanapotha P. Association between Family Functioning, Child Emotional and Behavioral Problems, and Parental Stress during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:270. [PMID: 38667066 PMCID: PMC11047722 DOI: 10.3390/bs14040270] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on people of all ages, especially children. This is a cross-sectional study in Thailand to explore the emotional and behavioral problems of school-aged children and associated factors during the lockdown. An online survey was conducted with 942 parents of school-age children. Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores showed that total difficulties and all subscale difficulties (hyperactivity, conduct problems, peer problems, and emotional problems) were increased, whereas prosocial behaviors were decreased in the pandemic period. The factors significantly associated with higher parental stress were higher emotional and peer problems after the COVID-19 outbreak, high family difficulty, and sleep problems. Sleep problems were associated with all children's difficulties, except prosocial behavior. High score in family difficulty subscale was associated with increased emotional problems, whereas poor family communication was associated with increased hyperactivity. Appetite change was negatively associated with parental stress and some children's difficulties. Higher household income, family time, physical activities, and recreational activities were associated with a decreased level of some difficulties and family functioning problems, but positively with an increase in the prosocial behavior of children. Additionally, higher screen time was associated with a higher level of hyperactivity, conduct problems, and poor family communication. This study demonstrated that Thai children were at high risk of developing mental health problems during the pandemic lockdown. We suggest that intervention to promote physical activities and reduce screen time is needed. Moreover, efficient monetary policy is urgently required. The limitations here include a recall bias with no baseline to compare and a potential selection bias due to parental selection and a webpage announcement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suttipong Kawilapat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Assawin Narkpongphun
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Pichaya Pojanapotha
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.K.); (A.N.)
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El Bilali H, Ben Hassen T. Regional Agriculture and Food Systems Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of the Near East and North Africa Region. Foods 2024; 13:297. [PMID: 38254598 PMCID: PMC10815245 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020297] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected agri-food systems worldwide. However, while the impacts differed from one country/region to another, the scholarly literature seems to focus on developed countries in the Global North. Consequently, this review scrutinizes the literature on the pandemic's impacts in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. A search on the Web of Science in March 2023 generated 334 documents, of which 151 were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. According to the bibliometric analysis, the most active nations are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon. In general, the coverage of studies is better in the Gulf region than in the less developed countries of North Africa and those suffering from wars (cf. Libya, Syria, and Yemen). Studies generally focus on crop production and the downstream food chain (cf. distribution and consumption). While the pandemic influenced every pillar of food security, this research concentrates on access and utilization. Meanwhile, the lion's share of the literature deals with the pandemic's socio-economic effects, especially those linked to food (in)security and health. The pandemic, which laid bare the agri-food system vulnerabilities, should be seized to foster the transition towards more resilient agri-food systems in the NENA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid El Bilali
- International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM-Bari), Via Ceglie 9, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Ben Hassen
- Program of Policy, Planning, and Development, Department of International Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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Piątkowska-Chmiel I, Krawiec P, Ziętara KJ, Pawłowski P, Samardakiewicz M, Pac-Kożuchowska E, Herbet M. The Impact of Chronic Stress Related to COVID-19 on Eating Behaviors and the Risk of Obesity in Children and Adolescents. Nutrients 2023; 16:54. [PMID: 38201884 PMCID: PMC10780384 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010054] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in the incidence of overweight and obesity in children was observed. It appears that unhealthy food choices, an unbalanced diet, and a sedentary lifestyle, as well as experiencing stress related to the pandemic, may be contributing to this disturbing trend. Chronic stress is a significant factor contributing to eating disorders and obesity in youngsters, involving medical, molecular, and psychological elements. Individuals under chronic stress often focus on appearance and weight, leading to negative body image and disrupted relationships with food, resulting in unhealthy eating behaviors. Chronic stress also impacts hormonal balance, reducing the satiety hormone leptin and elevating the appetite-stimulating hormone ghrelin, fostering increased hunger and uncontrolled snacking. Two systems, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic system with the adrenal medulla, are activated in response to stress, causing impaired secretion of noradrenaline and cortisol. Stress-related obesity mechanisms encompass oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, insulin resistance, and neurohormonal and neurotransmission disorders. Stress induces insulin resistance, elevating obesity risk by disrupting blood sugar regulation and fat storage. Stress also affects the gut microbiome, potentially influencing chronic inflammation and metabolic processes linked to obesity. In conclusion, chronic stress is a multifaceted risk factor for eating disorders and obesity in children, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of effective preventive and intervention strategies amid the escalating prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Piątkowska-Chmiel
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b Street, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Paulina Krawiec
- Department of Paediatrics and Gastroenterology, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (P.K.); (E.P.-K.)
| | - Karolina Joanna Ziętara
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (K.J.Z.); (P.P.)
| | - Piotr Pawłowski
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (K.J.Z.); (P.P.)
| | - Marzena Samardakiewicz
- Department of Psychology, Psychosocial Aspects of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 7 Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Elżbieta Pac-Kożuchowska
- Department of Paediatrics and Gastroenterology, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland; (P.K.); (E.P.-K.)
| | - Mariola Herbet
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8b Street, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
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Alkalash SH, Alshamrani FA, Alharthi SA, Alzubaidi MA, Alqarehi RM, Bazaid AA, Asiri B. Parents' Knowledge On, Attitude Toward, and Practice of Screen Time Exposure Regulation of Their Children Under Six Years of Age in Western Region, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e49464. [PMID: 38152829 PMCID: PMC10751468 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49464] [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] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and teenagers spend a significant amount of time watching screens, which include cellphones, tablets, gaming consoles, televisions, and computers. Regulation of screen time exposure is a crucial matter to avoid the health drawbacks of prolonged screen exposure. OBJECTIVES Assessment of parents' knowledge, attitude, and practice of regulation screen exposure among their children under six years old in the western region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of 451 parents of under-six-year-old children in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected by using an online questionnaire, and a link to the survey was distributed to respondents via electronic platforms as well as to primary healthcare visitors. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. RESULTS This study included 451 parents from the Saudi western region. Most of the participating parents were female (64.3%), aged 25-34 years (34.8%), married (86.0%), and had completed their university education (56.1%). This study found that 76.4% of parents had adequate knowledge, 73.1% had a positive attitude, and 69.8% had adequate practice of screen time regulation for their children under six years of age. Factors associated with their good knowledge include being married (p = 0.002), having government work (p = 0.020), having children who use mobile phones, and having children attend kindergarten (p <0.001) for each. Furthermore, highly educated parents showed more positive attitudes than others (p-value = 0.004). Finally, better practice of screen time regulation was noted among highly educated parents (p = 0.011), who had government jobs (p = 0.031), and children who went to kindergarten (p = 0.031) for their children. CONCLUSION In this study, parents of under-six-year-old children possessed overall good knowledge and a positive attitude, but their actual practice of screen time regulation for their children was low, specifically in terms of parental supervision of the content that children watch, their care of children's regular exercise, and using devices as a method for motivating or punishing their children. Additionally, sociodemographic characteristics like education, occupation, and marital status played a role in this issue. Healthcare professionals such as pediatricians, family doctors, general practitioners, and others can caution parents of young children under six years old about the harmful consequences of excessive screen use. Further longitudinal research is needed to understand the long-term effects of screen time exposure among young children. From this study, further qualitative research would aid in a greater understanding of the impact of parental knowledge, attitude, and practice on their children's use of screen time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa H Alkalash
- Community Medicine and Health Care, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Qunfudah, SAU
- Family Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, EGY
| | - Faisal A Alshamrani
- Medicine, Al-Qunfudah College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Qunfudah, SAU
| | - Saleh A Alharthi
- Medicine, Al-Qunfudah College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Qunfudah, SAU
| | - Muslih A Alzubaidi
- Medicine, Al-Qunfudah College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Qunfudah, SAU
| | | | - Abdurahman A Bazaid
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Bushra Asiri
- College of Medicine, Ibn Sina National for Medical Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Jeddah, SAU
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Kwon M, Jung YC, Lee D, Ahn J. Mental Health Problems During COVID-19 and Attitudes Toward Digital Therapeutics. Psychiatry Investig 2023; 20:52-61. [PMID: 36721886 PMCID: PMC9890043 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2022.0150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to elucidate public mental health problems and associated factors during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Furthermore, we evaluated people's attitudes toward digital therapeutics during the pandemic. METHODS Data was collected online from participants, aged between 20-50 without any history of mental illness, from June 1st to June 30th 2021. The survey consisted of questions regarding demographics, changes during pandemic and attitude towards digital therapeutics, and mental health measures. RESULTS Among the total of 445 participants, 49.2% reported significant level of stress and 13.5% and 7.0% met the screening criteria for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, respectively. Significant predictive factors for mental health problems were-younger age group, female sex, currently being treated for medical or surgical disease, change in the amount of time spent on mobile device or computer after pandemic, change in household income, and change in work environment due to pandemic. Furthermore, 35.1% of participants, considered psychiatric consultation, at least slightly, but were hesitant to receive it due to the fear of contacting COVID-19 at the clinics. Instead, 54.4% of them preferred using digital therapeutics as an alternative to visiting offline clinics. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that COVID-19 increased mental health problems along with access problems and identified their predictive factors. Digital therapeutics emerged as a viable solution to mental health problems and it was well-received by those in need of psychiatric consultation. Therefore, development and implementation of digital therapeutics should be considered to improve the mental health of people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjae Kwon
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Chul Jung
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Deokjong Lee
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeun Ahn
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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Mesce M, Ragona A, Cimino S, Cerniglia L. The impact of media on children during the COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative review. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12489. [PMID: 36568660 PMCID: PMC9762042 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mobile technologies are a fundamental part of daily life, several studies have shown increased use of electronic devices, TV, and gaming during childhood in conjunction with the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus affected almost every country, causing uncertainty about the future, social isolation, and distress. This narrative review has searched the scientific literature in the field focusing on children. A non-systematic literature review was conducted in May 2022. Various databases were employed to conduct the document research for this paper, such as "Google Scholar", "PubMed", "Web of Science". Keywords for the search included "screen time", "media", "digital use", "social media", "COVID-19", "pandemic", "lockdown", "children", "effect of media on children during COVID". It was found that both children and adolescents seem to have used technologies to confront struggles provoked by COVID-19, such as the onset or exacerbation of symptoms of anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. However, moreover, other studies have suggested that increased media use can have positive effects on children depending on usage and monitoring by the parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Mesce
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Dynamic Clinical and Health Psychology, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00186, Rome, Italy
| | - A. Ragona
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Dynamic Clinical and Health Psychology, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00186, Rome, Italy
| | - S. Cimino
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Dynamic Clinical and Health Psychology, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00186, Rome, Italy
| | - L. Cerniglia
- International Telematic University Uninettuno, Faculty of Psychology, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 39, 00186, Rome, Italy,Corresponding author
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