Happy Childhood Research Articles

How do question-answer exchanges among generations matter for children's happiness?

Intergenerational exchange plays an increasing role in realizing sustainable societies. Question-answer exchanges are the trigger for individuals to initiate some intergenerational relations, and the literature has established that inquisitiveness (curiosity about something and someone different) contributes to people's generativity and happiness. However, little is known about how children's inquisitiveness influences their generative concern and happiness. We claim that inquisitiveness is essential for children to enhance their happiness and hypothesize that those who receive a positive response from adults tend to be inquisitive and express the signs of generativity. To empirically examine the hypothesis, we have statistically characterized inquisitiveness in relation to adult-child interaction, generativity (offering care for people and the natural environment) and happiness, using the data from a survey of 511 Japanese children between 9 and 14 years and by applying the revised generativity concern scale (GCS-R). The results show that inquisitiveness correlates with generativity and happiness, primarily that a positive response by adults to children's inquiries promotes their inquisitiveness through adult-child interactions. Our analysis shows that children's inquisitiveness, encouraged by adults' positive responses, is more significant in happiness than the generativity concern during childhood. Overall, the results suggest that adults responding positively to children's questions is essential for promoting inquisitiveness and increasing happiness.

Childcare sharing and family happiness: analyzing parental and child well-being in the actor-partner interdependence model.

The exploration of the relationship between parental and child happiness, particularly in the context of shared childcare responsibilities, has not been examined in Korean families. Using a two-wave longitudinal design and data from 1,403 families from the Panel Study on Korean Children, this study employed the actor-partner interdependence model to examine the dynamics of childcare sharing between mothers and fathers in South Korea. Mothers' childcare sharing was found to have no significant impact on their own and their partner's happiness, reflecting traditional gender norms that undervalue mothers' contributions. In contrast, fathers' childcare sharing had a positive impact on their own and their spouse's happiness, suggesting a growing recognition of fathers' involvement. Furthermore, fathers' active participation in childcare was found to promote their children's happiness through their own happiness. This study reflects the complexity of evolving family roles and the covert persistence of traditional gender roles in modern Korean parenting. It suggests the importance of work and family policies that support changes in family dynamics by providing a more nuanced understanding of how changing family roles and responsibilities can enhance overall family well-being.

Symbolic-Semantic Originality Components of the Artistic World Model of the Story “Pilgrim” by Ivan S. Shmelev

The purpose of the article is to reveal the originality of the figurative and motivic structure of the story by Russian emigre writer of the first wave, Ivan S. Shmelev. Images and motifs are considered as significant components of the artistic model of the text, allowing to identify the author’s value systems and the specifics of the linguistic organization of the work. The novelty of the study lies in the consideration of the text from the point of view of its world-modeling specificity. To achieve the stated goal, comparative historical, biographical methods, and the method of descriptive poetics were used. The results obtained during the study showed that the figurative-motive system of the story is included in the Christian context. Significant worldmodeling components of the work are the Easter motif, motifs of “childhood”, joy, holiness, righteousness, crying, miracle, fabulousness, abundance, spiritual purity, simplicity, spiritual kinship, silence, death, trinity, the image of light. Special attention is paid to the image of the child, who is the leading world-modeling category in the text. The artistic model of the world of “Bogomolye” (“Pilgrimage”) is structured from the point of view of the characteristics of child’s worldview. The chronotope of the garden-paradise and the “holy road” become important world-modeling universals in the story. In “Bogomolye” (“Pilgrimage”) the reader is presented with an image of a “golden” happy childhood, an idyllic world filled with love and a feeling of spiritual kinship of everyone with everyone. Particular attention is paid to identifying the specific color scheme of the figurative system of the story, full of deep symbolism. Along with the image of the hero, the narrative structure of the work contains the image of the author, which brings a nostalgic tone to the text. At the end, the author’s understanding of the motive of death, which reflected the intensity of the writer’s spiritual quest, is substantiated. Keywords: Ivan S. Shmelev, story “Bogomolye” (“Pilgrimage”), artistic world model, image, motive, symbol, semantics.

Boosting happiness in left-behind children: Unveiling the power of physical activity through cognitive reappraisal and psychological resilience.

This study examines the mediating roles of cognitive reappraisal (CR) and psychological resilience (PR) in the relationship between physical activity (PA) and subjective well-being (SWB) among left-behind children in China. A cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from 606 students in grades 4-9. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and Adolescent Resilience Scale were used to collect data. The findings revealed a significant direct effect of PA on SWB and identified CR and PR as significant mediators in this relationship. In particular, the findings indicated that PA was associated with enhanced CR and PR, which in turn, were positively linked to SWB. The study elucidated the chain mediation pathway "PA → CR → PR → SWB," thereby underscoring the pivotal roles of CR and PR in the positive impact of PA on SWB among left-behind children. The findings indicate that PA plays a significant role in the SWB of left-behind children, with CR and PR identified as key mediators in this relationship. The study highlights the necessity of promoting PA, in conjunction with strategies to enhance CR and PR, as efficacious interventions for the enhancement of the mental health and well-being of left-behind children.

Pregnant mothers intention to use postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device and its associated factors in Arba Minch Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2022

IntroductionPostpartum intra-uterine device use contributes to the happiness and health of women, children, and families who are of reproductive age. Out of the 210 million pregnancies that happen worldwide each year, about 80 million are unintended. Increasing postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device intention can help reduce unplanned pregnancies and the incidence of abortion. Methodsa cross-sectional study was conducted in pregnant mother’s home from March to April 2022 to assess the intension to use PPIUCD and to identify factors. Through simple random selection, 482 pregnant women were surveyed using a pretested, structured questionnaire and in-person interviews. Four randomly selected Kebeles were involved in the study by using simple random sampling. The data was imported into Epi-data version 4.6.0.2 and then analysed using Stata version 14. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors. Results482 pregnant women have participated in the study, and 98.5 % of them responded. 13.7 % (95 % CI: 11.0–17.0) of the participants stated that they planned to use an intra-uterine devices after giving birth. The intention to use a postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device had a significant association with the participants' educational level (AOR = 4.69; 95 % CI: 1.31–16.81), moderate level (AOR = 3.77; 95 % CI: 1.90–7.50), high knowledge (AOR = 4.82; 95 % CI: 1.96–11.87), and favorable attitude (AOR = 7.26; 95 % CI: 3.39–15.52), according to the results of the multivariable analysis. ConclusionIn Ethiopia, compared to earlier research, there was a decreased intention to use postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices. Encouraging the use of postpartum intrauterine contraceptives for social and behavioural changes can be more effective.

만성질환 아동의 또래애착과 행복감 간의 관계에서 자아존중감과 신체적 자아상의 다중병렬매개효과

만성질환 아동의 또래애착과 행복감 간의 관계에서 자아존중감과 신체적 자아상의 다중병렬매개효과

Good normative parenting: towards a non-teleological and relational ideal

ABSTRACT Parenting seems to be continually in the spotlight for political and social commentators. Meanwhile academic and practitioner work on children and child welfare explores how parents can best deliver for children as what parents do is seen as the route to a happy and successful childhood and future adulthood. This theoretical paper argues that a focus on outcomes for children has led to the role of parents being overstated and its significance mischaracterized. The paper contends that good parenting should not be judged in terms of child outcomes either in the present or future and, therefore, that focusing all attention on which aspects of children’s wellbeing should be prioritized is misguided. Instead, it proposes that good parenting is better understood as a form of relationship centred around the concepts of intimacy, care, and equality; and unpacks some of the implications of this shift in approach.

The Influence of Technology on the Interaction of Parents and Children in the Family

This study explores how technology affects the interaction dynamics between parents and children in the family sphere. This study uses library research with integrative and comprehensive analysis in investigating and analyzing various related literature sources to understand the effect of technology use on parent-child interaction in the family context. The findings of this study highlight that the use of technology significantly impacts the interaction between parents and children in the family. The use of technology, especially when it is not regulated correctly, tends to reduce the time parents and children should spend together. However, it should be recognized that technology also has the potential to be a valuable tool, mainly when used wisely and as a positive educational resource. Therefore, effective management related to the use of technology in the family environment plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance. Parents have a responsibility to set healthy rules and boundaries regarding the use of technology, as well as to educate children about digital ethics. In addition, parents' active involvement in using technology with their children becomes crucial. With a wise and sustainable approach to technology, families can achieve a balance that supports the development and happiness of children amid an era of technological development that continues to grow.

‘It's so satisfying to know you've contributed to a happy childhood’

‘It's so satisfying to know you've contributed to a happy childhood’

Rancang Bangun Game Edukasi Bencana Alam Menggunakan Metode MDLC

Purpose: Educational games about natural disasters in Indonesia, as a provision of learning tools to foster children's interest in learning knowledge and emergency response efforts to natural disasters, through digital games that make children happy and easy to understand material. Research Methodology: In making this Natural Disaster Educational Game, the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC) system development method is implemented which consists of six stages, namely concept, design, material collecting, assembly, testing. and distribution (distribution). This research involved elementary school students and teachers as well as employees of the national disaster management agency in the city of Bandar Lampung. Result: A multimedia-based "Natural Disaster Educational Game" (Case Study for Elementary School Students) has been successfully created as a natural disaster education medium which is a complement to material related to natural disasters in Indonesia, a digital game that makes children happy and easy to understand the material. Limitation: Educational games about natural disasters in Indonesia, including floods, landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes including an introduction to natural disasters in Indonesia, the pre-disaster phase, the emergency response phase. Contribution: Educational games are interactive learning media in terms of knowledge fun, useful for improving language and thinking skills, increasing concentration and solving problems.

코로나(COVID-19)팬데믹 상황 속 부모의 성취압력이 아동의 행복감에 미치는 영향

Objectives This study was conducted to examine the direct and indirect effects of parents' achievement pressure, children's smartphone addiction, and school adaptation on children's happiness.
 Methods In order to analyze the influence relationships between variables, the 13th (2020) data of the Parenting Policy Research Institute's Panel Study of Korea Children was collected from 629 children and parents who answered all of the questions out of 2,150. The data was used in the final analysis, and was statistically processed and analyzed through SPSS 21.0 and Amos 21.0 programs.
 Results First, the direct influence of parents' achievement pressure on children's smartphone addiction and children's school adaptation and happiness was found to be significant, and the direct influence of children's school adaptation on happiness was also found to be significant. On the other hand, the direct influence of children's smartphone addiction on happiness was found to be insignificant. Second, parents' achievement pressure was found to have an indirect effect through the mediation of children's school adaptation. Third, in the path where parents' achievement pressure affects children's happiness, a sequential double mediating effect of children's smartphone addiction and school adaptation was found. Lastly, the factor that had the greatest impact on children's happiness was found to be the school adaptation variable.
 Conclusions The results of this study show that children's school adaptability has the greatest impact in amplifying children's happiness, and suggest the need to develop various counseling programs to relieve parents' achievement pressure and promote smart phone use to promote children's happiness.

Romantic Primitivism and Literary Neocolonialism in Camara Laye’s Novel L’Enfant Noir

The article examines the depiction of romantic primitivism in Camara Laye’s novel L’Enfant noir (The Dark Child) and the phenomenon of literary neocolonialism behind its publication. L’Enfant noir is a novel published when Guinea was still under French colonization in the 1950s. It tells the story of a happy black child growing up in the middle of a beautiful Guinean countryside, that was completely untouched by the atrocities of colonialism. Upon its publication by Plon, a French publishing house, the novel received different responses from African and European readers. In Africa, it was perceived as turning a blind eye to the cruelty of colonialism. However, in Europe, it was showered with praise and it even received a prestigious literary award. To examine this phenomenon, this article analyzes the novel both intrinsically and extrinsically. Intrinsically, it uses the theory of romantic primitivism to analyze how the novel romanticizes the lives of African indigenous people constrained by colonialism. Extrinsically, it discusses the phenomenon of literary neocolonialism behind the publication of L’Enfant noir. The discussion about literary neocolonialism is divided into two parts. Firstly, it addresses the historical analysis of Plon’s publishing house, its relations with the French power, and the political interests underpinning the novel’s publication. Secondly, it highlights the strategy the publisher uses to accentuate exoticism in the novel’s peritext to market the book in Europe. The novelty of this article lies in its discovery of the elements of romantic primitivism found in the novel while it also proves that literary neocolonialism towards L’Enfant noir persists to this day.

Parents' Roles in Children's Games and Toys

Games and toys are important elements that facilitate children's adaptation to the world. Games are an effective learning method that supports children's social, physical, and cognitive development. Children's games and the toys they use are greatly influenced by the people around them. Especially in the preschool period, parents’ game the most crucial role for children. Children often explore their first games and toys with their parents, and these initial toys are usually provided by parents. The level of knowledge that parents have about games and toys determines the games children will Game and the toys they will use. The aim of this study is to identify the roles of parents in the game’s children play and the toys they use. A qualitative approach was adopted using semi-structured interviews in the research. Twenty families with children participated in the study. The collected data were analysed using descriptive analysis. When the research results are examined, it is observed that parents pay attention to children's preferences, toy quality, and children's developmental level when choosing toys. It is believed that these toys contribute to children's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. In addition, computer games, ball games, chess, hide-and-seek, and other games are among the preferred games parents Game with their children. According to parents, these games not only increase children's happiness but also strengthen family bonds, boost self-confidence, and contribute to their socialization.

The Role of Gender in Parenting Styles and Their Effects on Child Development

This paper explores the differences of gender in parenting styles and their effects on child growth. It examines the different parenting approaches adopted by fathers and mothers and the relevance between these styles and childrens cognitive, emotional, and social development. The study draws upon various theories and empirical studies to investigate the influence of gender on parenting styles, with a literature review of relevant academic publications is conducted, mainly focusing on authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive parenting styles. The findings suggest that gender does influence parenting modes, with mothers tending to adopt authoritative parenting styles, while fathers tend to favor authoritarian or permissive styles. The study also highlights the significance of parenting styles in child development stages, exactly, authoritative parenting linked to more positive child outcomes. The researches also provide insights for parents and caregivers on how to educate healthy and happy children.

Suicidality in the Light of Schema Therapy Constructs, i.e., Early Maladaptive Schema and Schema Modes: A Longitudinal Study.

(1) Background: The search for new strategies to diagnose people at risk of suicide and to help them is highly significant in view of the still high rate of suicidality. Schema therapy and its core constructs, i.e., early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) and schema modes, correspond to both directions. (2) Methods: This study compared the severity of EMSs and schema modes in a clinical group of suicide risk, a clinical non-suicidal group, and a control group. Intragroup comparisons were also conducted between times of crisis and psychological stability. The evaluation was supported by controlling for the psychopathological symptoms presented, following the dimensional concept. (3) Results: The unquestionable relevance of the disconnection/rejection domain in suicidality has been proven. The importance of EMSs from other domains, especially during psychiatric crises, was confirmed. Among the schema modes, child and Punitive Parent modes proved to be the most significant. There were changes in coping modes but of a lesser effect size. The protective importance of the Healthy Adult and Happy Child modes was also proven. (4) Conclusions: The results provide an indication for practitioners about the EMSs and schema modes most associated with suicide risk. They can also serve as a framework for deepening the issue of identifying and preventing suicidality in schema therapy.

Pengaruh Gerak Dan Lagu Kristiani Terhadap Ekspresi Bahagia Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun Di TK GKPI Tarutung Kota

The aim of this research is to determine the influence of Christian movements and songs on the happy expressions of children aged 5-6 years at the GKPI Tarutung City Kindergarten. The type of research used in this research is quantitative research with experimental research methods and the type of research design is one group pretest post-test design. The population in this study was all children aged 5-6 years at GKPI Tarutung City Kindergarten, totaling 110 people, and the sampling technique, namely purposive sampling, was 18 children from class B4. Data collection techniques were carried out using observation sheets and documentation. Based on the recapitulation of data on children's happy expressions before being given treatment (pretest) using movements and Christian songs, there were 16.7% in the quite happy (CB) category, 22.2% in the Happy (B) category, and 61.1% in the very happy (SB) category. And after being given treatment (post-test) using movement and Christian songs, there were 5.6% in the quite happy (CB) category, none in the Happy (B) category and 94.4% in the very happy (SB) category. Furthermore, based on the results of the t test, the value of tcount≥ttable was obtained (3.610 > 1.740). So it can be concluded that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted, which means that there is an influence of movements and Christian songs on the happy expressions of children aged 5-6 years at the GKPI Tarutung City Kindergarten.

Tolstoy’s Happy Children of Peace. The Wartime Translation of 'Sebastopol in December' (1855)

A geopolitical clash between Russia and other European powers, the Crimean War (1854–1856) witnessed the first mediatized armed conflict in modern history. During the war, the young Lev Tolstoy wrote and published three Sevastopol Sketches, based on his wartime experiences in the besieged port of Sevastopol. Upon publication, the first of the stories was translated into French and published within a fortnight. Une journée à Sévastopol en décembre 1854 featured in Le Nord, a Brussels newspaper covertly operated by the Russian government. An in-depth analysis of the translation shows that the text was abridged and carefully groomed to serve Russia’s interests and Tolstoy’s patriotism made way for an appeal to the target audience, designated as ‘happy children of peace.’ Elaborating on the origins of the translation and its publishing context, I argue that this particular translation needs to be read both as an act of soft power and as an act of diplomacy. If the target text is considered as a historical document among other sources, empirical historical research can prove beneficial to the discipline and move forward the debate on Translation Studies’ approach to highly ideological contexts, in particular translations in periodicals.

The Psychological Benefits of Breastfeeding: Fostering Maternal Well-Being and Child Development.

The value of breastfeeding surpasses its utilitarian role in nourishing, encompassing profound psychological advantages for mothers and children. The orchestration of emotional bonds relies on the interplay of oxytocin and prolactin, fundamental hormones that underpin maternal attachment, mitigate postpartum depression, and cultivate self-confidence. Simultaneously, breastfeeding promotes infant development by fostering robust brain growth, bolstering immune defenses, and nurturing cognitive and emotional maturation - all of which are nurtured through maternal interactions. We must respond to the call for heightened advocacy of breastfeeding. This entails delivering education, easily accessible support, and creating an environment where breastfeeding is normalized. By dispelling misconceptions and eradicating stigmatization associated with breastfeeding, we can amplify awareness and empower mothers to make well-informed decisions for their newborns. These implications reverberate extensively. Enhanced maternal mental well-being and self-assurance form the bedrock of healthier family dynamics. At the same time, the dividends of cognitive, emotional, and immunological enrichment in children represent a more promising future. At a societal level, the embrace and promotion of breastfeeding cultivate an environment that places immense value on the health and happiness of both mothers and children. This journey is more profound than mere sustenance; it signifies a complex web of advantages. Elevating awareness and support for breastfeeding solidifies the global commitment to comprehensive maternal and child welfare and the flourishing of meaningful relationships.

Gender differences in happiness in Chinese society: The role of parental preference for sons over daughters

ObjectiveThis paper studies the relationship between Chinese parents' preference for sons over daughters in childhood and these children's happiness in adulthood. BackgroundHappiness is an important dimension for measuring a society's well-being and a lifelong goal for many Chinese citizens deeply influenced by Confucianism. However, China's relatively low world ranking on happiness is worrisome for Chinese policymakers and prompts the question of whether the concept of “preference for sons” is related to lower adult happiness. MethodsThis study used the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study to analyze the relationship between parents' preference for sons over daughters in one's childhood and adult happiness using the least squares method. An instrumental variable method was used to address endogeneity concerns. In addition, the Karlson–Holm–Breen method was used to analyze the mediating effects of childhood educational opportunities and health resources. ResultsParents' preference for sons over daughters in one's childhood was positively related to the happiness of male adults but negatively for female adults. Childhood education opportunities and childhood health resources have a mediating effect on the relationship between parental preference for boys and children's happiness in adulthood. ConclusionsParents’ preference for sons over daughters substantially explains the gender gap in happiness in adult Chinese citizens. Reducing the idea of prioritizing boys over girls has the potential to improve the happiness level of adults.

Promoting Peer Connectedness Through Social-Emotional Learning: Evaluating the Intervention Effect Mechanisms and Implementation Factors of a Social-Emotional Learning Programme for 9 to 12-Year-Olds.

There is little evidence regarding the effect mechanisms of social-emotional learning programs on children's peer relationships. The current study evaluated a novel school-based social-emotional learning program for the first year of secondary school assessing effects on social-emotional skills, peer connectedness, happiness, student and teacher classroom climate. The sample included 19 intervention classrooms (n = 399) and 16 waitlist-control classrooms (n = 281), with a mean age of 10.34 (SD = 0.76) and 48.8% girls. The main intervention effect analysis followed a per-protocol approach and was thus conducted with eight classes that finished all sessions (n = 195) and the control group classes (n = 281). It was further hypothesized that increases in social-emotional skills would predict peer connectedness and class climate increases, which would predict happiness. Results indicated significant intervention effects for social skills, peer connectedness and happiness. Classroom climate declined for both groups, seemingly affected by the school transition. Hypothesized relationships between target variables were partly supported with significant effects of social-emotional skills on connectedness and significant effects of peer connectedness on happiness for children reporting connectedness decreases. Additional analyses were conducted including all classrooms to compare the intervention's effectiveness across different implementation progress groups. Significant group differences were found, indicating that implementation aspects impact intervention outcomes. The findings indicate that universal, school-based social-emotional leaning programs are effective approaches to support peer relationships in the context of the school transition. However, more implementation support seems to be needed to ensure best-practice delivery and achieve maximal intervention effectiveness.