Minority Families Research Articles

The role of the family’s ethnicity and correlates in social workers’ risk perceptions: Evidence from a vignette study in Hungary

Studies have shown that children from some ethnic minority families are disproportionately represented in the child protection system. Ethnic-based treatment is problematic because it challenges whether child protection decision-making is based on the principle of’the best interests of the child’. Roma children are also overrepresented in the child protection systems of many European countries, but little research has explored why this is so. The present study seeks to address this gap by examining child welfare workers’ perceptions of risk at the early stages of child protection decision-making. The main research question is whether they perceive higher levels of risk if the parents are Roma. Method: We use data from a vignette-based survey conducted among child welfare workers (N = 600) in Hungary in 2018. The factors influencing social workers’ risk perceptions are analysed using multilevel ordinal logistic regressions. The regression models of risk perception include case variables (harm to child, parents’ ethnicity, mother’s education, parents’ employment, housing conditions, living environment, parental alcoholism, mother’s willingness to cooperate), and the individual characteristics of the social worker. Ethnicity is examined individually as well as in interaction with other case characteristics. Results: Findings show that physical harm to the child, parental alcoholism, a messy living environment, and the non-cooperative behaviour of the mother increase the level of risk perceived by child welfare workers. There is no evidence of a statistical association between parental socioeconomic status and the social worker’s perception of risk. Family ethnicity also does not have a statistically significant impact on risk perception (main effect). However, some case characteristics affect risk perception differently when the family is of Roma origin (interaction effects). Physical abuse has a strong effect on the social worker’s perception of risk, but this effect is more modest when the family is of Roma origin. Likewise, the mother’s non-cooperative behaviour is a risk-increasing factor, but this effect disappears for Roma families. Conclusions: Although, no ethnic bias was found in social workers’ perception of risk, our findings indicate that the perception of risk for Roma families is less dependent on the circumstances of the case than for majority families. In some cases, this may lead to an unjustified overestimation of risk or, conversely, an underestimation when the family is Roma.

Abstract B027: Adapting communication resources for clinic staff in a multisite FQHC to improve HPV vaccination encounters with Spanish-speaking parents of adolescents

Abstract Introduction: Adopting evidenced-based strategies (EBS) targeting clinic staff in safety-net settings can improve adolescent HPV vaccination rates. Still, adaptations of EBS are needed to reach racial/ethnic minority patients and families effectively. As part of a larger implementation study on HPV vaccination, we examined and addressed adaptation needs for HPV vaccine communication resources to support clinic staff serving Hispanic adolescent FQHC patients. Methods: In October 2022-January 2023, we partnered with a large multi-site FQHC in Los Angeles, CA to deliver two clinic staff trainings designed to i) improve HPV knowledge and communication strategies; and ii) discuss HPV vaccine workflow. Informed by the Practice Change Model, we completed baseline qualitative interviews with clinic team members (providers, clinic staff, and leadership) and provider and clinic staff surveys to inform the development, implementation, and adaptation of clinic staff training on HPV vaccine knowledge and communication strategies. We then conducted site visits and key-informant interviews with clinic staff immediately post-training. Notes from site visits and key-informant interviews were transcribed to identify potential barriers to adoption and opportunities for adaptation. Results: Baseline data indicated 95% of clinic staff identified as Hispanic and 94% reported speaking a language other than English. Notes from site visits and key-informant interviews with clinic staff indicated clinic staff identified the need for Spanish language messaging to communicate HPV and cancer prevention messages to monolingual Spanish families. As a result, we adapted Spanish-language messages from the 2023 Health Resources and Services Administration toolkit and American Cancer Society to develop a handout with scripts that address top concerns about HPV vaccination with monolingual Spanish-speaking parents of adolescents to that were identified from baseline data collection. Bilingual-bicultural staff then validated messages and confirmed cultural relevance. Developed materials were then presented to clinic leadership to review and suggest further refinement before delivering them to clinic staff. Discussion: Key-informant interviews and post-training site visits played an important role in identifying opportunities to adapt EBS designed to improve HPV vaccination among culturally diverse patients. To better serve diverse communities disproportionately impacted by HPV-associated cancers, clinic staff need resources with HPV vaccine communication messages available in languages that reflect the needs of their patient population. Citation Format: Samantha Garcia, Adrienne Martinez-Hollingsworth, Sheila Salinas Navarro, Sharon Hudson, Zehui He, Emily Dang, Lawrence Palinkas, Lourdes Baezconde-Garbanati, Jennifer Tsui. Adapting communication resources for clinic staff in a multisite FQHC to improve HPV vaccination encounters with Spanish-speaking parents of adolescents [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B027.

Are food and nutrition assistance programs fostering an equitable early care and education (ECE) food environment? A systematic review utilizing the RE-AIM framework

BackgroundHealth inequities related to poor diet, food insecurity, and obesity negatively affect children from low-income minority families. The USDA administers Food and Nutrition Assistance Programs (FNAPs) in Early Care and Education settings (ECEs) to safeguard the health of vulnerable children. However, the extent to which FNAPs provide an equitable food environment in ECEs remains unclear. ObjectiveExamine FNAPs’ association with young children's (2–6 years) food environment in ECE through a systematic review using the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance) framework. The primary focus is to operationalize RE-AIM in ECE context and evaluate FNAPs' association with the ECE food environment using an equity lens. Measurable outcomesFood environment dimensions were assessed at three levels: ECE setting (availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, accommodation); ECE provider (feeding practices); and child (dietary intake, food insecurity, BMI percentile). ResultsThe review included 38 articles (cross-sectional=30, mixed method=1, pre-post=5, longitudinal=2) with Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP; n = 35), Farm to ECE (n = 2), and Food Bank-ECE program partnership (n = 1). No study addressed all RE-AIM indicators. CACFP participation showed positive association with healthy food availability (n = 28), feeding practices (n = 12), child dietary intake (n = 6), and reduced risk of being overweight (n = 1). Farm to ECE interventions showed increased local food affordability (n = 1) and children's acceptance of healthy foods (n = 1). No study addressed foods served in ECEs to accommodate cultural diversity, special dietary needs, developmental disabilities, or reported child food insecurity. ConclusionCACFP emerges as the most prevalent FNAP nationally for having potential to improve ECE food availability and feeding practices, but further research is needed to address equity gaps by examining its impact on child outcomes (dietary intake, BMI percentile) across diverse geographic locations (urban vs. rural), ECE organizational structures (center-based vs. home-based), and demographic characteristics of ECE providers and children.

Understanding the roles and challenges of child protection employees in out-of-home care arrangements for children of minority and immigrant backgrounds in Rogaland, Norway

ABSTRACT The study was designed to understand the roles and challenges of child protection services (CPS) employees in arranging out-of-home care for children with minority and immigrant backgrounds in Rogaland, Norway. Findings from the six in-depth interviews with CPS employees showed that, guided by existing laws and policies, they follow three phases from investigation to the care order decision. The premium they place on “best-interests-of-children” can be contested in relation to the rights of the family. CPS employees day-to-day challenges include understanding minority families cultural backgrounds, finding foster families, and communication. Based on the findings, policy and practice recommendations are made.

Children of immigrants' behavioral trajectories and family processes: Using an integrative developmental model.

Using an integrative developmental model, this study revisited the "immigrant paradox" in early behavioral development, differentiating immigrant background from race and examining the role of family processes (family structure, stability, racial/ethnic socialization) in disparities between immigrant and U.S.-origin children. Growth-curve analyses on a sample of children aged 5-7 (N = 12,520) from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten class of 2010-2011 data set revealed distinct behavioral trajectories based on parental country of origin. Some groups outperformed the racially matched U.S.-origin peers by improving faster (internalizing behaviors: Salvadoran) or maintaining their advantages (internalizing: Mexican, Dominican; externalizing: Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, South American, and Dominican), while others faced continued challenges (externalizing behaviors: Japanese, Thai) or exhibited a nuanced pattern such as beginning with an advantage but deteriorating faster (internalizing: Cuban). The time-varying, country-of-origin-specific family processes fully or partly explained some disparities (except for Asian), emphasizing the need for a sociocultural understanding of the distinct strengths and limitations in racial-ethnic minority families. This contextualized knowledge is crucial for promoting healthy child development. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Immigrant and minority parents' experiences in a neonatal intensive care unit: A meta-ethnography review.

To examine immigrant and minority parents' experiences of having a newborn infant in the neonatal intensive care unit and explore healthcare professionals' experiences in delivering care to immigrant and minority families. A meta-ethnographic review informed by eMERGe guidelines. We conducted a systematic literature review. Studies were included if they explored immigrant or minority parent experiences in neonatal intensive care units and health professional experiences delivering care to immigrant and minority families in neonatal intensive care. Reporting followed ENTREQ guidelines. Database searches included CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Google Scholar. Boolean search strategies were used to identify qualitative studies. No limitations on commencement date; the end date was 23rd August 2022. PRISMA guidelines used for screening and article quality assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute criteria for qualitative studies. Initial search yielded 2468 articles, and nine articles met criteria for inclusion. Three overarching themes were identified: (1) Overwhelming Emotions, (subthemes: Overwhelming Inadequacy; Cultural Expressions of Guilt; Not Belonging), (2) Circles of Support, (subthemes: Individual Level-Spirituality; External Level-Connecting with Family; Structured Peer-to-Peer Support), (3) Negotiating Relationships with Healthcare Professionals (subthemes: Connecting; Disconnected; Linguistic Barriers). Interactions between healthcare professionals and immigrant and minority parents were the strongest recurring theme. There can be a mismatch between immigrant and minority families' needs and the service support provided, indicating improvements in neonatal intensive care are needed. Despite challenges, parents bring cultural and family strengths that support them through this time, and many neonatal intensive care staff provide culturally respectful care. Professionals should be encouraged to identify and work with family strengths to ensure parents feel supported in the neonatal intensive care unit. Findings can inform policy and practice development to strengthen health professionals capabilities to support immigrant and minority families in neonatal units. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklists were used to report the screening process.

Ethnic socialisation profiles and depression among ethnic minority adolescents in China: a person-centred approach

BackgroundEthnic socialisation plays a vital role in the development of ethnic minority adolescents. However, the generalizability of research findings beyond the context of immigrant societies in the United States remains unclear.MethodsUtilising a person-centred approach, this study analysed a sample of 2,600 ethnic minority adolescents in China (55.8% female, Mage = 14.93 ± 1.82) to explore ethnic socialisation patterns, and their correlations with depression.ResultsLatent profile analysis revealed four distinct ethnic socialisation profiles: low-frequency, moderate-frequency, high-frequency and proactive integration orientation. Adolescents with the high-frequency profile displayed the highest levels of depression, followed by those with the moderate-frequency profile, whereas adolescents with the low-frequency and proactive integration orientation profiles showed a lower risk of depression.ConclusionsWithin the sociocultural context of China, ethnic minority families’ ethnic socialisation practices demonstrate unique characteristics. Various ethnic socialisation messages are integrated in diverse patterns to exert influence on adolescents.

Feasibility Study of a Mobile Health Parenting Intervention Among Somali/Somali Americans From Refugee Families in the United States

Mobile health parenting interventions often do not account for inequities in parenting education and health resources for racial minority, refugee, and low-income families. We examined the feasibility of a mobile health intervention to address maternal and child wellness needs in Somali/Somali Americans from refugee families. Using a community-engaged research approach, our interdisciplinary academic team, in collaboration with Somali/Somali American community members, healthcare providers, and state, county, and local health officials, developed a culturally sensitive audio-based messaging intervention. The messages contained four topics (parent–child relationships, child nutrition, child health, and maternal self-care) and were delivered in an audio-based format upon the community’s needs. Forty-six Somali/Somali American parents ( Mage = 31) participated in the feasibility study, and 12 parents provided feedback. Based on thematic analysis, Somali/Somali American parents found the content and delivery style helpful in caring for their children and themselves and expressed interest in continuing this intervention. We discuss the implications for using mobile health interventions to address health inequities in marginalized communities.

Adaptive changes to Korean vernacular houses in Northeast China: the influence of changing family patterns on spatial capacity

PurposeThis study explores the spatial adaptive changes to different ancestral origins of Korean vernacular houses in Northeastern China and discusses the influence of changing family patterns on spatial capacity.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses quantitative and comparative methods to explore changes to space arrangement, space area, and furniture forms in Korean vernacular houses. This study also explores the correlation between changes in family patterns and the changing characteristics of spatial capacity.FindingsThe results elucidate the changing characteristics of Korean houses' spatial capacity. While the changing individual needs of Korean family members have led to increased spatial accessibility, there is a weak correlation variability in remodelling outcomes and changes in individual needs. Moreover, the per capita living area of Korean vernacular houses has increased, and furniture forms tend to be simpler, smaller, and more integrated. These developments reflect the changes in the way of life, production, and family structure.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides a unique perspective on the sociology and architecture of ethnic minority families in China. Its results can help architects and construction firms more intuitively understand Korean houses. This study also provides a reference for the future renewal of Korean houses in the region.Originality/valueAlthough a growing number of studies have examined Korean vernacular houses and family patterns, none have explored the impact of changing family patterns on the spatial organisation of different ancestral origins of Korean vernacular houses. Therefore, this novel study addresses this gap, enriching the literature and providing practical insights.

Social Epidemiology of Early Initiation of Electronic and Conventional Cigarette Use in Early to Middle Adolescents.

Early initiation of tobacco use among adolescents is a significant public health concern. While there is extensive research on overall tobacco use, much of it focuses on initiation in late adolescence, uses cross-sectional designs, and lacks specific exploration of electronic versus conventional cigarette use. This study aims to investigate social determinants influencing the early initiation of electronic and conventional cigarette use among U.S. adolescents. We utilized data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, which follows a cohort of tobacco-naïve children from age nine through age 16. The social determinants examined included household income, parental education, financial difficulties, racial/ethnic minority status, family structure, neighborhood income, and gender minority status. Structural equation models were employed to assess associations between these determinants and early initiation of electronic and conventional cigarette use. Male gender was associated with a higher likelihood of conventional cigarette use, while the risk of early initiation of electronic cigarette use was similar across genders. White adolescents were at a higher risk of conventional cigarette use; however, the risk for electronic cigarette use was comparable across White and non-White groups. Financial difficulties were linked to an increased likelihood of early initiation of conventional cigarette use but not electronic cigarette use. Higher household income was associated with a reduced risk of initiating conventional cigarettes but did not significantly impact electronic cigarette use. Adolescents from married families were less likely to initiate electronic cigarette use. No significant effects were found for parental education or neighborhood income on the initiation of either type of cigarette use. Age did not significantly affect the initiation of either cigarette type, and gender minority status was marginally associated with early initiation of conventional cigarette use. The social patterning of electronic cigarette use differs from that of conventional cigarette use, suggesting that distinct tobacco products do not pose a uniform risk across all adolescents. This study underscores the importance of tailored prevention efforts that address the unique challenges associated with early initiation of electronic and conventional cigarette use among adolescents. The differential risk factors identified suggest targeted prevention strategies for conventional cigarette use, focusing on financial difficulties, household income, and gender-specific interventions. In contrast, prevention efforts for electronic cigarette use may require broader, more inclusive approaches that address all adolescents, regardless of their background. Comprehensive universal screening for electronic cigarette use and targeted screening for conventional cigarette use among adolescents are recommended.

Pre-pandemic individual and household predictors of caregiver and child COVID-19-related stress in a high-risk sample

BackgroundMany families experienced increased stress during the COVID-19 pandemic and families recently investigated for child maltreatment may have been at particularly high risk. However, little research has focused on pre-pandemic individual and household predictors of COVID-19-related stress among such families who may have been especially vulnerable to the pandemic. ObjectiveThe present study prospectively examined pre-pandemic predictors of caregiver and child COVID-19-related stress in a sample of caregivers and children investigated for child maltreatment prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. ParticipantsParticipants included children (N = 285), ages 8–13, and their caregivers (N = 246) investigated for child maltreatment prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsMultiple linear regression models were run to separately predict caregiver and child COVID-19-related stress from pre-pandemic household chaos, caregiver and child emotion regulation, caregiver psychological distress, and sociodemographic characteristics. FindingsBlack caregivers and children reported significantly more COVID-19-related stress than White caregivers and children (b = 2.27, p = 0.006 and b = 1.70, p = 0.013, respectively). Hispanic children reported more COVID-19-related stress than non-Hispanic children (b = 2.12, p < 0.001). Caregivers' pre-pandemic psychological distress also predicted their children's COVID-19-related stress (b = 1.80, p = 0.001). Household dysfunction and child and caregiver emotion regulation were unrelated to subsequent COVID-19-related stress (ps > 0.05). ConclusionsThere is a need to support minority families and address mental health concerns to prevent disparate outcomes in the face of stressors.

LGBTQ+‐affirming graduate education: Preparing and supporting future family court clinicians

AbstractLesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual orientation and gender minority (LGBTQ+) youth and families have been under a social and legislative attack in the United States in recent years, marked by a stark increase in gender‐affirming care bans and religious rights cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. LGBTQ+ graduate students in mental health fields—particularly those who seek to work in family court settings—have specific needs that are often unmet in their educational and clinical training environments. Furthermore, the over‐representation of LGBTQ+ youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems necessitates specialized knowledge and skills that many clinicians and educators are currently lacking. This paper discusses the unique challenges facing LGBTQ+ graduate students and provides research‐based suggestions for professors, administrators, and supervising clinicians who seek to provide a holistic and humanizing educational experience that produces clinicians who can respond to the evolving needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in family court settings and beyond.

Disentangling policy and structural effects on car-ownership for car-owning and carless US households during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

This research analyzed car-ownership in the US during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, by utilizing a nationally representative household survey spanning from January 2020 to March 2022. Using a multilevel Hurdle model with month and state random effects, vehicle ownership trends are separately modeled for car-owning and carless households within the same modeling framework, while accounting for endogeneity and unobserved heterogeneity. An increase in the total amount of economic stimulus funding received increased the odds of vehicle ownership, while high car prices, high levels of housing expenditures, living in multi-family dwelling, and being from minority and low-skilled worker families negatively affected car-ownership. Greater household labor force participation, increases in household size and young persons in the household, living in states with high COVID caseloads and with moderately stringent Stay-at-Home social distancing mandates affected car-ownership propensities differently for car-owning and carless households. The significance of the research is that it disentangled pandemic-related and transportation policy variables from changes in household structure, living arrangements and employment-related characteristics. The analysis jointly considered how short-term pandemic-related influences as well as long-term demographic and occupational factors differently affect car-ownership for car-owning households and those without cars. Policy implications are drawn for consumer protection in the car ownership process, auto loan forbearance in future economic disruptions, strategies for public transportation which has continued to suffer from lower levels of use, and sustainability programs due to higher volumes of older used cars.

Child Age at Time of First Maternal Concern and Time to Services Among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Early treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can improve developmental outcomes. Children with ASD from minority families often receive services later. We explored factors related to child's age at time of mother's first concerns about child's development and subsequent time to service initiation among children with ASD. Analysis included 759 preschool-age children classified with ASD based on comprehensive evaluations. Factors associated with retrospectively reported child age at time of first maternal concern and subsequent time to service initiation were investigated using multiple linear regression and Cox proportional hazards. Earlier maternal concern was associated with multiparity, ≥1 child chronic condition, externalizing behaviors, and younger gestational age, but not race/ethnicity. Time to service initiation was longer for children of non-Latino Black or other than Black or White race and higher developmental level and shorter for children with ≥1 chronic condition and older child age at first maternal concern. Parity, gestational age, and child health and behavior were associated with child age at first maternal concern. Knowledge of child development in multiparous mothers may allow them to recognize potential concerns earlier, suggesting that first time parents may benefit from enhanced education about normal development. Race/ethnicity was not associated with child's age when mothers recognized potential developmental problems; hence, it is unlikely that awareness of ASD symptoms causes racial/ethnic disparities in initiation of services. Delays in time to service initiation among children from racial/ethnic minority groups highlight the need to improve their access to services as soon as developmental concerns are recognized.

Food Purchasing Behavior of Predominantly Minority Families in an Urban Supermarket Voucher Pilot Program.

The objective of this exploratory community-based trial was to examine the usage and behavior of underserved urban residents participating in a 2-month food voucher program. $70 supermarket vouchers were provided each month for 2 months to participants enrolled in selected child daycare centers in East Harlem, New York, and receipts were collected to examine purchases. Participants were from low-income households with at least 1 child 5 years and younger (n = 113). Participants spent the most on meat, fish, poultry, and eggs (29.7%); fruits and vegetables (15.9%); and cereal and bakery products (15.1%). Fruit and vegetable purchases and dairy purchases were higher in foreign-born participants than in US-born participants. Furthermore, future models should consider the potential benefit of unrestricted vouchers in supporting differences in dietary needs and preferences.

Differences between parents' and paediatricians' perceptions of mild respiratory infections in childhood: contrast study.

Mild respiratory infections are a common reason for consultation in paediatrics, both in the emergency department and in primary care clinics. These conditions, mostly viral and self-limiting, have a significant impact on the healthcare system, school and work absenteeism, and family routines. Despite being common and banal illnesses from a medical perspective, they involve a significant concern in families. The main objective of the contrast study was to compare the perceptions of parents and paediatricians regarding mild respiratory infections in childhood and their impact on family conciliation. Two online, cross-sectional surveys were conducted among Spanish paediatricians and parents with children aged 6 months to 12 years, involving 504 paediatricians and 1,447 families, with questions on attitudes towards visits to the paediatric consultation, care burden of minor pathologies, work, and family conciliation, and treatment and prevention of these illnesses. Results showed significant differences in paediatricians' and parents' perceptions in many aspects. According to 34.5% of paediatricians and 27% of parents, families regularly go to the paediatrician without a scheduled visit. Only 4% of parents report having self-medicated their child, while paediatricians raise this percentage significantly to 48%. Regarding the question: "it is normal for a child to have an average of 4 colds a year," only 25.5% of the surveyed families "strongly agree" unlike to 70.2% of paediatricians. 72.8% of paediatricians "strongly agree" with: "in my opinion, it is good for children to get sick to improve their immune system" reduced to 45.9% of parents. Consultations for minor pathologies represent a "high workload" for 60.9% of paediatricians, while this opinion is agreed by only 18.9% of the parents. Mild respiratory infections in childhood are perceived differently by paediatricians and parents. While paediatricians perceive them as a common and manageable phenomenon, parents tend to show higher concern and demand for medical attention. This study underlines the need to improve communication between paediatricians and parents to align perceptions, optimise the use of the health system resources, and improve the efficiency in the management of these common paediatric illnesses.

Lagochilascaris minor (Nematoda, Ascarididae) em gato de vivência comunitária em praça pública na cidade de Porto Alegre, sul do Brasil - relato de caso

Lagochilascaris minor (Family Ascarididae) is a zoonotic and chronic parasite. The definitive hosts are domestic and wild felines, human and dogs, and the intermediate hosts are rodents. The lesions appear in the formo f a pseudocysts, nodule or abscess and when fistulated, they drain serosupurulent material containing eggs, larvae and adult helminths. The present report describes the diagnosis of this parasitosis in a castrated adult cat, living in a community in a public square for Five years, with progressive weight loss and skin lesions. The fecal parasitological examination (FPE) detected L. minor eggs. The epidemiology and treatment of this neglected parasitic disease are discussed.

Family Language Policy in the minority and migration contexts of Cyprus

This article investigates the Family Language Policy (FLP) of minority and immigrant families in Cyprus. The participants in our study were 30 immigrant and minority families in Cyprus with various first language (L1) backgrounds, namely, Russian, Georgian, Ukrainian, Bulgarian, Romanian, English, and Arabic and minority speakers of Armenian, Lebanese, and Pontic Greek. The data were collected via written questionnaires and oral, in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a focus on the FLP, cultural and linguistic identities, heritage language (HL) (incomplete) acquisition, attrition, use maintenance and transmission, linguistic interaction patterns and the material culture at home. The analysis of the data revealed that minority and immigrant speakers in Cyprus had hybrid language and cultural identities, different perceptions regarding citizenship, inclusion, and belonging, as well as the attrition, use, maintenance, and transmission of the HL, which reflected their FLPs, agency, practices, and negotiations. They attempted to assimilate into the target society but also had strong links to the community of residence, to their L1 country, and to their heritage or home language. The participants also employed hybrid language practices, as they used mixed/multiple languages both in the home and outside it. Overall, they had a positive attitude towards multilingualism in Cyprus.

Meta-synthesis of ethnic minority families' experiences of children's palliative care across developed countries.

Meeting the needs of people accessing healthcare from ethnic minority (EM) groups is of great importance. An insight into their experience is needed to improve healthcare providers' ability to align their support with the perspectives and needs of families. This review provides insight into how families from EM backgrounds experience children's palliative care (CPC) by answering the question, "What are the experiences of EM families of children's palliative care across developed countries?" A systematic search of articles from 6 databases (Scopus, Medline, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Global Health) with no limit to the date of publication. The search was conducted twice, first in June 2022 and again in December 2022. The extracted data were analyzed using thematic synthesis. Eight studies explored the experiences of families of EM in different high-income countries. Four themes were identified: unmet needs leading to communication gaps, accessibility of hospital services and resources, the attitude of healthcare workers, and the need for survival as an immigrant. Overall, the study shows EM families rely heavily on healthcare professionals' cultural competence in delivering palliative care for their children. There is an interplay between EM families' culture, spiritual ties, communication, and social needs from this review. Understanding how to bridge the communication gap and how families use their culture, faith, and spirituality to manage their pain, and grief and improve their quality of life would be extremely beneficial for healthcare practitioners in increasing their support to EM families accessing CPC.

“I Just Had to Go With It Once I Got There”: Inequality, Housing, and School Re-optimization

Residential segregation by race and class is a durable form of inequality. Yet, we know less about how the unequal sorting of families into neighborhoods and schools occurs. Drawing on interviews with a diverse sample of 156 families, we examine whether residential and school decisions are connected and how they differ by household income. We find that, for higher-income families, residential decisions maintain and build on existing educational advantages, while lower-income parents churn between both houses and schools, doing the continuous work of compensating for unequal settings. Only the highest income—mostly White—parents report that they can combine their housing and school decisions and achieve satisfaction in both domains. In contrast, housing insecurity and unequal, racially-stratified geographies constrain less advantaged, primarily minority families to prioritize affordable shelter over school choice. When such trade-offs lead to inadequate educational experiences for their children, these families try to improve their children’s schools through re-optimization strategies, withdrawing and re-enrolling them into different schools. While some parents perceive that these changes benefit their children, such school transfers can also increase educational instability. More generally, the lack of quality schools in affordable neighborhoods burdens families by requiring compensatory strategies to resolve housing and educational shortcomings.