Family Context Research Articles

Use of Machine Learning Models to Differentiate Neurodevelopment Conditions Through Digitally Collected Data: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study.

Diagnosis of child and adolescent psychopathologies involves a multifaceted approach, integrating clinical observations, behavioral assessments, medical history, cognitive testing, and familial context information. Digital technologies, especially internet-based platforms for administering caregiver-rated questionnaires, are increasingly used in this field, particularly during the screening phase. The ascent of digital platforms for data collection has propelled advanced psychopathology classification methods such as supervised machine learning (ML) into the forefront of both research and clinical environments. This shift, recently called psycho-informatics, has been facilitated by gradually incorporating computational devices into clinical workflows. However, an actual integration between telemedicine and the ML approach has yet to be fulfilled. Under these premises, exploring the potential of ML applications for analyzing digitally collected data may have significant implications for supporting the clinical practice of diagnosing early psychopathology. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to exploit ML models for the classification of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using internet-based parent-reported socio-anamnestic data, aiming at obtaining accurate predictive models for new help-seeking families. In this retrospective, single-center observational study, socio-anamnestic data were collected from 1688 children and adolescents referred for suspected neurodevelopmental conditions. The data included sociodemographic, clinical, environmental, and developmental factors, collected remotely through the first Italian internet-based screening tool for neurodevelopmental disorders, the Medea Information and Clinical Assessment On-Line (MedicalBIT). Random forest (RF), decision tree, and logistic regression models were developed and evaluated using classification accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and importance of independent variables. The RF model demonstrated robust accuracy, achieving 84% (95% CI 82-85; P<.001) for ADHD and 86% (95% CI 84-87; P<.001) for ASD classifications. Sensitivities were also high, with 93% for ADHD and 95% for ASD. In contrast, the DT and LR models exhibited lower accuracy (DT 74%, 95% CI 71-77; P<.001 for ADHD; DT 79%, 95% CI 77-82; P<.001 for ASD; LR 61%, 95% CI 57-64; P<.001 for ADHD; LR 63%, 95% CI 60-67; P<.001 for ASD) and sensitivities (DT: 82% for ADHD and 88% for ASD; LR: 62% for ADHD and 68% for ASD). The independent variables considered for classification differed in importance between the 2 models, reflecting the distinct characteristics of the 3 ML approaches. This study highlights the potential of ML models, particularly RF, in enhancing the diagnostic process of child and adolescent psychopathology. Altogether, the current findings underscore the significance of leveraging digital platforms and computational techniques in the diagnostic process. While interpretability remains crucial, the developed approach might provide valuable screening tools for clinicians, highlighting the significance of embedding computational techniques in the diagnostic process.

Exposure to parental interpartner conflict in adolescence predicts sleep problems in emerging adulthood

ObjectivesParental interpartner conflict is a highly prevalent form of family risk that is stressful for adolescents with ramifications for their sleep. Multiple studies have demonstrated that adolescents from high-conflict homes are at risk for sleep problems. Building on this literature, we conducted novel analyses and investigated whether exposure to interpartner conflict in adolescence predicts sleep problems in the subsequent developmental period of emerging adulthood. MethodsWe used a rigorous four-wave design spanning 8years (collected between 2012-2020). At wave 1, participants were 245 adolescents from diverse backgrounds (M age=15.74years; 67% White/European American, 33% Black/African American; 52% girls). Individuals participated again in their adolescence at wave 2 (M age=16.77) and wave 3 (M age=17.69). Participants returned for wave 4 in emerging adulthood (M age=22.97). Adolescents reported on their parents’ interpartner conflict (intense and frequent conflict). Sleep duration (minutes) and quality (efficiency, long wake episodes) were measured using actigraphy. ResultsAfter controlling for autoregressive effects and several covariates, findings from a structural equation model revealed that greater exposure to parental interpartner conflict in adolescence predicted reduced sleep efficiency and more long wake episodes in emerging adulthood. ConclusionsResults build on the literature to consider sleep in the family context and are among the first to illustrate that exposure to parental interpartner conflict in adolescence predicts sleep problems in emerging adulthood. Continued investigations into the antecedents of sleep problems in emerging adulthood may benefit from considering past exposure to family risk.

A Review of the Literature on Episodes of Acute Fentanyl Intoxication in Pediatric Age and Toxicological Applications.

Fentanyl is an opioid with powerful analgesic effects and a high speed of action. Due to its pharmacological properties, this molecule has therapeutic application as an anesthetic in surgery or as palliative therapy for cancer patients. Unfortunately, in recent years, the easy availability of this substance, the low cost and the illegal online market have favored the large-scale diffusion of fentanyl. Fentanyl is available in different forms, including nasal spray, oral patches, soluble capsules, aerosol or the new version of fentanyl mixed with other drugs, making its use very widespread. Subjects of various ages are involved in fentanyl consumption, including minors that have not yet reached adolescence. In this work, we performed a literature review using the search engines PubMed NCBI and SCOPUS regarding episodes of acute fentanyl intoxication occurring in those of a pediatric age using the Mesh Terms "fentanyl" AND "overdose" AND "children". The inclusion criteria were English papers published in the last 10 years regarding the cases of children under the age of 10. We evaluated the most frequent methods of intake and the circumstances of such episodes. In cases of death, we analyzed the autopsy, the toxicological findings and the investigations carried out. The review results show that in this age group (under < 10 y.o. s), it is possible to identify the risk factors for fentanyl intake, such as the presence of this molecule within the family unit due to drug addiction or medical therapy. The results also demonstrate a significant risk of underestimation of this phenomenon, since the molecule is often not investigated through adequate toxicological analysis. These results, therefore, suggest always carrying out toxicological investigations in the case of suspected fentanyl intoxication, both on patients or cadavers. The investigations must always include a urinary screening for opiates, and the request for a second level analysis with molecule dosage in cases of positivity or in cases of strong suspicion for assumption. In cases of intoxication in a family context of drug addiction, it is necessary to investigate the chronicity of the intake through hair analysis and evaluate the possible co-administration of other drugs. In conclusion, we suggest a protocol, applicable both on patients or cadavers, which can be useful for physicians and forensic pathologists in order to promptly identify these cases and allow for the reporting of them to the judicial authorities with the adoption of strict prevention and control measures.

Couple and family optimal experiences: Integrating flow theory into the relational sciences

AbstractShared experiences are a fundamental aspect of couple and family life that impact both individual well‐being and satisfaction with close relationships. Optimal experience, also known as flow, is the state of complete absorption and fulfillment experienced when engaged in an intrinsically rewarding activity. The interdisciplinary concept of flow provides a sound basis to explore optimal shared experiences. Research on flow experiences in couple and family contexts is limited, presenting a gap in the literature. This article outlines a research program integrating flow theory into the relational sciences along three lines of inquiry. First, couple/family flow requires a clear definition and theoretical framework by building upon previous scholarly work on social flow. Second, the impact of flow experiences on relational variables (e.g., relationship quality, interpersonal commitment, sexual satisfaction) requires investigation. Lastly, flow theory presents an opportunity to develop new interventions aimed at improving the experiences couples and families share together.

The Intergenerational Transmission of Mindset of Fitness and Its Role in Elevating Children’s Leisure-Time Physical Activity

For school-aged children with limited exposure to school physical education, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) contributed significantly to their overall activity behaviors. The mindset of fitness (one’s belief that his/her fitness level and ability to become fitter are changeable) was found to be associated with more exercise intentions and exercise behavior among adults, but relevant research among school-aged children (6–13 years) in the family context is scarce. This study examined how parents’ mindset of fitness may impact children’s LTPA and its possible mechanisms. In total, 1034 Hong Kong primary students and their parents completed the survey. Path analysis identified three mediation effects: via parental support for PA, via children’s mindset of fitness, and via parental support for PA to children’s mindset of fitness. Preliminary findings highlight the important role of parents’ mindset of fitness in inducing more parental support for PA, fostering children’s mindset of fitness, and eventually enhancing children’s LTPA.

Dementia Care Decisions, Caregiving Situations, and Formal Service Use in Korean Immigrant Families: A Qualitative Application of a Sociocultural Model

Given the significant role of culture and place in dementia caregiving, we conducted a qualitative study with Korean American family caregivers of persons with dementia. Guided by the sociocultural model of dementia caregivers’ service use, we explored the categories of care decisions, caregiving situations, and formal service use within the context of culture and place. Data from in-depth interviews with 16 Korean American dementia caregivers living in the greater Los Angeles area were analyzed using the constant comparison method. Across the three conceptual categories, we derived eight themes: (1) personal motivation; (2) family context; (3) attitude toward formal care; (4) strains; (5) rewards; (6) language and geographic region; (7) knowledge and awareness; and (8) social support and cultural stigma. Our findings demonstrate not only varied experiences in care decisions, caregiving situations, and formal service use but also their interconnectedness. Supporting the influential role of culture and place in dementia caregiving, the findings include positive and negative elements within each domain and provide implications for programs and services to respond to identified needs and barriers.

Family and School Cooperation as Social Capital

Starting from the belief that the interaction and connection between people, on which the relationship between the family and the school is based, is a value for itself, from the specific aspect of the theory of social capital, the cooperation between the family and the school is viewed. The paper aims to describe the cooperation between family and school as a form of social capital, i.e. as a resource that contributes to the educational achievements of students. Representation and outcomes of social capital in the education field are analyzed from different points of view. Different levels of social capital analysis potentially lead to implications for the improvement of family-school cooperation operationalized by different activities of parental involvement in children's education by (in)equality of family resources and context.

Balancing diets: diverse values shaping sustainable food choices

PurposeThe paper aims to explore how values and knowledge are expressed in student’s discussions about food and health.Design/methodology/approachFood practices present a complex phenomenon extending beyond biomedical descriptions, including social dynamics of food in families and communities. Contextual conditions of social groups and settings have significant impacts on food choices and practices. Although values constitute a central part of educational goals, deliberate values education remains an often-neglected area, with a tendency in both curricula and educational practice to focus on knowledge and overlook how values intersect with knowledge. The paper utilises group interviews supported by participant observations to study the food and health practices as expressed in students' discussions.FindingsThe paper’s findings show how values are expressed together with knowledge as value-knowledges around food and health within the social contexts of family, cultural identities and peer relationships. While moving through their lives, students draw on and utilise biomedical, social-cultural and sensory value-knowledges, simultaneously considering the nutrition and taste of foods, the value of connecting with family and peers in cultural settings as well as getting enough food to feel satiated.Originality/valueThe paper presents an original approach around the necessity to consider and integrate cultural identities in discussions and education about food and health to empower students and their communities in a way that is socially just and equitable. This involves shifting discussions of health education away from students as (ir)rational obstacles but rather as partners in co-creating knowledge for sustainable food and health equity.

Perspectives of mental health professionals on kinship care for persons with mental illness in Ghana

Globally, people with mental illness are more likely to present poor social, health and economic outcomes than the general population. While formal mental health services have been integral to the wellbeing of these vulnerable individuals, the relevance of kinship support in their lives cannot be overemphasized. Mental health practitioners play a crucial role in navigating the complex dynamics inherent in family relationships when mental illness is present. As such, their perspectives could shed light on the intricate dynamics of kinship care and emphasize the need for tailored interventions that address the diverse issues within familial contexts. In this qualitative study, the perspectives of twenty mental health professionals on kinship care for persons with severe and persistent mental illness in Ghana were explored. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and were analyzed via content analysis. The mental health professionals mainly understood kinship care as nuclear and extended family members providing support to their ill relative, albeit mostly with reference to nuclear family support. While kinship was deemed relevant due to the bonds that tie family members, some drawbacks were noted. When working with patients and their families, mental health professionals are expected to assess the availability of kinship support from the patient’s perspective in collaboration with the family members before deciding whether to integrate kinship into their support services.

A Paradigm Model of School Counseling Services based on Grounded Theory

Aim: The purpose of this research is to provide a model of school counseling services based on the conditions and implications of the grounded theory to help school counselors use appropriate services for the integrated development of students. Methods: The research method was a qualitative research that was conducted using the grounded theory approach. Semi-structured interviews and the translation of authentic school counseling documents were used in this study to collect data. Eight professional school counselors with doctoral degrees in counseling, who worked in schools as a school counselor for more than 10 years, and many of whom teach at universities, participated in this study.Results: The findings of this research are based on the field of grounded theory, including concepts of the factors and consequences of school counseling services. These concepts include: developmental needs of students, professional competence of school counselors, necessity of family awareness, cultural context, family lifestyle, education policy, entrance exam phenomenon, psychiatrists and drug prescription, therapeutic attitude instead of preventive attitude, non-governmental institutions and schools, student standards, and counselor standards. Conclusions: The findings of the research showed that the provision of school counseling services should be based on the developmental needs of students, the cultural context and lifestyle of families should be considered, school counselors should have the necessary standards to provide services, and finally, direct and indirect counseling services. The school should be provided in a specialized manner and in a regular framework to facilitate the integrated growth of students.

Education first? Triggering vs jeopardising entrepreneurial intentions

PurposeDrawing on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TBP) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), this study delves into how, in entrepreneurship-unfriendly environments, university students’ entrepreneurial intention (EI) is shaped, focusing particularly on the role of entrepreneurship education (EE) and an entrepreneurial family context (EFC).Design/methodology/approachA sample of 688 students at a Spanish university was used for testing our hypotheses using GUESSS project data, through PLS-SEM regression and multigroup analysis (entrepreneurship course vs non-course students).FindingsPositive and significant impacts of entrepreneurial attitude (EA) and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) on EI, and of subjective norms (SN) on EA and ESE, were found in both groups. Conversely, the impacts of an EFC on EA, SN and EI were significant only for course students, and the impact of SN on EI was significant only for non-course students. The impact of EFC on ESE was not significant for either group.Originality/valueThis investigation delves into how the TPB components shape university students’ EI in entrepreneurship-unfriendly contexts, and offers an original multigroup analysis to explore the role of EE in such dynamics. A novel contribution of this study is the finding that EE is a relevant catalyser for making entrepreneurial parents become an effective trigger for entrepreneurship. Conversely, EE was, unexpectedly, deemed irrelevant or counter-productive for some aspects of entrepreneurial dynamics. Further research is encouraged, delving into the role of social and cultural contexts.

Stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild contact in diverse family contexts: Stepfamily structure and existing family relationships

Objective: To describe stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild contact and examine how contact varies across stepfamily structures and with the strength of family relationships existing prior to stepfamily formation. Background: Stepgrandparenthood is on the rise. Little is known, however, about how stepgrandparents enact their likely ambiguous role and how this depends on the opportunities associated with and provided by the broader family context. Method: Using Dutch survey data, descriptive information about stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild contact was presented. Random intercept multilevel models were used to analyze 2,261 stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild dyads nested in 1,373 children to assess the role of stepfamily structure and existing family relationships. Results: Stepgrandparents saw their stepgrandchildren on average several times a year. When the child and/or the stepparent coresided with the biological parent and in the case of half-siblings, contact levels were higher. When the stepparent had biological children living outside the stepfamily’s household, stepgrandparents had less contact with stepgrandchildren. Contact was also lower when the divorced biological parents of the child had a nonconflictual relationship. Conclusion: Overall, the frequency of stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild contact is low. Coresidence is critical for a higher contact frequency, indicating the importance of contact opportunities and strong within-stepfamily relationships. Strong ties of the stepfamily to a former family may compete with stepgrandparent-stepgrandchild relationships.

The Journey to Graduate School: An Exploration of First-Generation Latine Students’ Transmission of Knowledge to Capital

Graduate education often serves as an opportunity for Latine students to leverage their social, familial, and cultural capital as an avenue for increased economic prosperity. However, the journey to pursue a graduate education can be challenging as students often have to navigate multiple roles and identities that lead to feelings of guilt, separation, and stress. Therefore, this study expands our understanding of the familial role in Latine students’ development of graduate school aspirations through the following research question: how do first-generation Latine students (FGLSs) activate funds of knowledge within familial contexts and transmit them into capital as tools to develop their graduate school aspirations? Utilizing plática methodology and educational journey mapping, I explore how five FGLSs draw upon their funds of knowledge from familial contexts and activate it into linguistic, aspirational, and familial capital on their journey to graduate school. The findings highlight FGLSs’ motivations to attend graduate school with a focus on the activation of funds of knowledge from familial contexts to capital as primary contributors in their development of graduate school aspirations.

Children’s Information-Related Internet Use at Home: The Role of the Quantity and Quality of Parental Support and Children’s Motivation

ABSTRACT Children’s information-related internet use positively affects their acquisition of computer- and information-related skills. Nevertheless, this use still occurs predominantly in the family context. Parents’ support of their children’s internet use can motivate them to use the internet for information-related purposes. However, while parents’ support seems to be important, the quantity and quality of parental support have been shown to have different associations with children’s motivation. Thus, the goal of the current study was to examine the relationship between parents’ support (quantity and quality), children’s motivation to engage in information-related internet use, and children’s actual information-related internet use (practical and school- or learning-related use) using structural equation modeling. In addition, we examined the mediating effects of children’s motivation. Specifically, 492 12-year-old German children answered a paper-and-pencil questionnaire. We found positive associations between the quantity and quality of parents’ support and children’s intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, while only structure-giving support was found to be related to children’s intrinsic motivation. The quantity of support was directly related to children’s school- or learning-related use, while intrinsic motivation was associated with both forms of information-related internet use. Furthermore, we confirmed that children’s motivation is an important mediator in this context. The implications of these findings for parents and children are considered.

A bilingual-bicultural literacy programme for deaf learners in Namibia

The poor academic performance and literacy level of deaf learners in Namibia are a major concern, and it is necessary to understand the center of the situation. Even though deaf learners can become proficient readers and writers, the challenge remains in finding an appropriate instructional approach to attain these results. This presents an even greater challenge, as deaf learners not only differ from their hearing peers, but also significantly differ from one another in terms of their various familial and social contexts, language use, and overall holistic development. The Bilingual-Bicultural approach is considered a good approach for teaching deaf learners, and it offers them the chance to become biliterate; therefore this study explored the impact of a Bilingual-Bicultural literacy program on 41 d/hh learners (age = 7-13 yrs). Through a one-group pre-test post-test design, a group of participants were pre-evaluated, followed by an intervention and post-evaluation. The intervention's main goal was to implement practical teaching strategies using a Bilingual-Bicultural teaching approach that can reduce the delay and gap in language learning and literacy for deaf learners. Results from t-tests calculated to determine the statistical significance of the pre and post-test with regard to the total scores and all the sub-tests for NSL as well as Written English skills indicated significant results (p&lt; 0.05). The study offers insight into the psychology of teaching deaf learners while also advancing the theory and application of the Bilingual-Bicultural approach. Additionally, it promotes debate of the best practices for ensuring that deaf learners receive a quality education and full participation in society.

Determinants of Inequalities in the Exposure to and Adoption of Multiple Health Risk Behaviors among Brazilian Adolescents, 2009-2019.

The occurrence of multiple risk behaviors among adolescents imposes challenges in the context of public policies of health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Evidence on the conditions leading to the exposure to and adoption of multiple risk behaviors allows the identification of vulnerable groups of adolescents, and may support the proposition of targeted strategies directed to individuals at risk. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a quantitative analysis to identify recent trends in the exposure to and adoption of multiple health risk behaviors among Brazilian adolescents, highlighting individual-, household-, and school-level characteristics linked to inequalities among social groups. The analysis was based on cross-sectional data from the National Student Health Survey (PeNSE), conducted by the Brazilian Institute for Geography and Statistics in 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2019. The trends in the occurrence of multiple risk behaviors among adolescents were estimated according to social strata, allowing the calculation of concentration indexes and their disaggregation into major determinants of inequalities in the exposure and adoption of risk behaviors. The analyses were conducted using a complex survey design to allow representativeness at the population level. The results showed a rise in the incidence of multiple risk behaviors among youngsters in Brazil from 2009 to 2019. Factors influencing inequalities in the exposure to multiple risk behaviors were socioeconomic status and the characteristics of the household and school environments, whilst the adoption of multiple risk behaviors was also influenced by early exposure to multiple risk behaviors. Furthermore, trends in inequalities in the exposure to and adoption of multiple risk behaviors showed an intensification from 2009 to 2019, being initially concentrated among wealthier adolescents, followed by a transition to higher incidence in the lower socioeconomic strata in 2012 and 2015, respectively. The findings underscore the role of support systems for adolescents at risk within the familial and school contexts, whereas strategies of public policies of health based on the strengthening of community ties may require improvements to tackle socioeconomic inequalities in the occurrence of risk behaviors among youngsters.

Parent-child joint leisure activities during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Parents’ active participation in children’s activities can enhance communication and interaction in the family context, contributing to a positive family climate and healthy child development. This study examined Chinese parent–child joint leisure and media activities from February to May 2022 when COVID-19 restrictions were in place. A total of 1716 parents, forming a convenience sample, were surveyed to determine the frequency of parental participation in three types of joint activities: media, outdoor and artistic. Overall, the parents participated in joint activities once or twice weekly. The frequency of parental participation in joint activities is positively correlated with a positive family climate, indicating the importance of parents’ participation and involvement in joint activities for developing a strong family relationship. Parents’ ow’n text-based media is also positively associated with their frequency of participation in joint activity. Finally, significant differences among various regions in China suggest the influence of different lockdown policies.

Information sharing between psychiatric hospitals and schools to better support adolescents returning to school following a suicide-related crisis

As rates of adolescent hospitalization for suicide-related crises increase, so does the urgency for improving adolescent school reintegration. Communication and collaboration are considered key mechanisms for continuity of care during times of transition; however, to date, few studies have identified critical information to share or have explored strategies for navigating challenges to information sharing during and following school reintegration. The present study explored previously hospitalized adolescent (n = 19), parent (n = 19), school professional (n = 19), and hospital professional (n = 19) views of information sharing and their perceptions of facilitators and barriers to this communication. Applied thematic analysis revealed three key themes related to the best information to share across entities, including the (a) need to consider environmental relevance to information (i.e., informing school supports and hospital treatment), (b) importance of considering information unique to each patient's circumstance (i.e., sharing information on a “case-by-case basis”), and (c) duality between families preferring to share minimal information but school professionals desiring the maximum (i.e., less is more vs. more is better). Regarding facilitators and barriers to information sharing, six key themes emerged, including (a) understanding risks and benefits of information sharing; (b) trust in hospitals and schools; (c) mental health stigma; (d) communication processes; (e) navigating individual, family, school, and community contexts; and (f) “push and pull” between privacy and need. Findings inform key considerations for collaborating with families in determining if and what information to share during school reintegration.

COVID-19-related mental health and well-being: A qualitative study of Czech adolescents’ lived experiences

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to explore lived experiences of Czech adolescents with a focus on mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet the study objective, the qualitative analysis employed focus group interviews with 12 selected adolescent participants. The participants described a wide array of behavioral changes, feelings, experiences, and opinions related to their mental health and well-being across a wide range of contexts. The thematic analyses revealed 23 specific factors characteristic to the context of the response to the pandemic emerged within the context of school and study, followed by the context of families, peer and social interactions, as well as the situation of coronavirus and pandemic in society. The specifically emerged themes were described as potential factors leading to aggravating or mitigating mental health problems in reference to already published findings. The results can potentially draw implications for public health policy in the event of the reemergence of potential societal threats.

Family Climate as a Mediator of the Relationship between Stress and Life Satisfaction: A Study with Young University Students.

The family environment has a significant influence on the personality development of young people and their assessment of life satisfaction. Perceived stress is related to life satisfaction, but this relationship is also influenced by the family context. The present study analysed the impact of perceived stress on life satisfaction and the mediating role of family climate in university students. A sample of 920 university students was recruited for this study. The instruments used included the Perceived Stress Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and the Family Social Climate Scale, and socioeducational information was collected. The results indicate that perceived stress had a significant and positive effect on both conflictive and violent family climates, while life satisfaction was negatively impacted by these negative family climates. Additionally, supportive and cohesive family climates, along with difficulty expressing feelings and opinions, were found to have significant positive effects on life satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of the family system in shaping individual conditions and how it can regulate the relationship between stress and life satisfaction.