Positive Behavior Change Research Articles

Enteric Dysbiosis in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Associated Response to Stress.

Background Microbiome studies in humans, though limited, have facilitated the evaluation of the potential connection between the microbiome and brain function. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have several behavioral challenges and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, which may contribute to gut microbiome dysbiosis. Aim The aim of this study is to examine the extent to which the gut microbiome of children with ASD differs in comparison to children with neurotypical development (CWND) and to assess whether a probiotic intervention has the potential to influence the gut microbiome in mediating positive behavior change and stress regulation. Methods This pilot study collected data from three children with ASD and four CWND before and after a four-week probiotic intervention. Data collection included microbiome diversity screening from stool samples as well as the following biophysiological measures: salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) levels, response to simulated stressor and calming stimulus (behavior), including pulse rate, galvanic skin response, and pupil diameter (PD). In addition, telomere length was assessed. All measures, except for telomere length, were repeated after the four-week intervention on the ASD and CWND groups for pre-/post-comparison. Data analysis consisted of multivariate analyses, including ANOVA. Results While greater heterogeneity in the ASD group was evident in all measures, the gut microbiome of participants who received probiotic intervention differed from pretreatment results within and across the groups investigated. Further, the biophysiological parameter sAA displayed a significant increase between baseline and exposure to stress in both groups, whereas PD increased in both groups from baseline,F(11, 26615) = 123.43, p = 0.00. Conclusion Though gut microbiome diversity is diminished in children with ASD compared to CWND, the gap is narrowed following a brief probiotic intervention. The results suggest that probiotic interventions have the potential to rescue microbiome diversity and abundance, potentially supporting stress regulation in pediatric populations.

Benefits and Skills Acquired during Coronavirus (COVID-19) Quarantine Period

Background: A pandemic and novel coronavirus disease in China 2019. All world countries took a series of protective and quarantine measures to prevent the spread of the virus. These measures led to various behaviors and attitudes during the period.
 Aim: To assess the positive attitudes and benefits, that the participants acquired during the health precaution or quarantine period of (COVID-19) at Makkah Al- Mukaromah.
 Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in 2020. A snowball sampling method was adopted. The number of participants was 150 who fulfilled the inclusion criteria and completed an online questionnaire. The questionnaire evaluated the physical social, and scientific benefits that were acquired during the period of quarantine.
 Results: The findings of the study expressed positive changes in behavior and attitudes among participants, such as memorizing the Qur'an, attending qualifying courses, acquiring (23%) reading and (20%) drawing skills. More than 22% learned different types of sports and exercises. (9%) of them participated in health education and. social work.
 The quarantine was the best period for (19%) of participants there were improvement in communication with their families.
 Conclusion: Participants acquired physical social, and scientific benefits and skills during the COVID-19 quarantine period especially memorizing the Quran and acquiring cooking food skills.

“My Values Keep Me Well… Would They Help Other People?”: A Thematic Analysis Exploring the Values and Values-Based Behaviours of People Facing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage

Individuals facing Severe and Multiple Disadvantage (SMD) have experience of at least three of the following: homelessness, substance use, mental illness, offending, and domestic violence. There is a push towards providing better support for people facing SMD and yet little research on what the “best” support looks like. Values motivate behaviour across various contexts, and helping an individual identify their values can lead to greater enactment of positive behavioural change. This study aimed to identify and explore the values of people facing SMD, the barriers and facilitators to enacting these values, and the perceived helpfulness of service provision in encouraging values-based behaviour or change. Twelve participants took part in semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in four themes: values are idiosyncratic and interconnected; the benefits of value identification and enactment; the risks and challenges of value identification and enactment; and the relationship between values and support. Results offer preliminary evidence for the potential use of values in providing helpful, person-centered support for people facing SMD. Values work could arguably be integrated into any level of support for those facing SMD to support values-based living and change. Further research on the use and efficacy of values-focused interventions in SMD is needed.

Fostering Literacy Culture through 5-Minute Reading Habit: A Community Service Initiative at Elementary School 034816 Jambu Mbellang

This community service aims to develop a culture of literacy at SD Negeri 034816 Jambu Mbellang through the habit of reading for 5 minutes. Involving instructors, students and parents, this program focuses on producing positive changes in reading behavior among participants. By carrying out preparatory analysis and planning, we explain the literacy situation in schools and propose relevant strategies. The results of implementing this program show a major change in children's enthusiasm for reading, as well as growth in literacy skills. Ongoing reviews and regular monitoring can identify supporting factors and barriers to program performance. Outreach to parents and their involvement in children's literacy instruction is critical in establishing a supportive atmosphere at home. Workshops and additional training for teachers and parents provide insight and practical solutions to improve literacy learning. The success of this program is not only seen in improving students' reading abilities, but also in changes in attitudes, active participation of parents, and growth in teacher skills. These results suggest that bringing the entire school community together can foster a positive and sustainable literacy culture. It is hoped that this success will provide inspiration and input for similar efforts to improve literacy in other schools.

Dietary diversity and associated factors among women attending antenatal clinics in the coast region of Tanzania

BackgroundAntenatal care (ANC) is crucial for reducing maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in low-resource settings. During antenatal care, women are provided with resources for enhancing their dietary diversity, like nutrition education and counseling. Improved nutrition knowledge influences positive nutritional behavior change, like women’s improved dietary diversity, which may increase the likelihood of a healthier pregnancy and delivery experience.ObjectiveThis study aim was to assess dietary diversity and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in the Coast region of Tanzania.MethodsThe descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to assess dietary diversity and associated factors among 338 pregnant women. A semi-structured questionnaire collected information from pregnant women on social demographic characteristics, nutrition knowledge and dietary diversity. Women were classified as having a varied diet if they had consumed at least five of the ten food groups over the previous twenty-four hours. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of dietary diversity in pregnant women.ResultsOnly 28% (95% CI: 23.5–33.1) (n = 95) of pregnant women met the minimum dietary diversity, and 18% (95% CI: 13.8–21.9) (n = 59) were considered to have a high level of nutrition knowledge. Living near a health facility (AOR = 1.77, CI 1.02, 3.06), having high nutrition knowledge (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.36, 4.89), and being pregnant for the first time (AOR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.09, 5.44) were associated with adequate dietary diversity.ConclusionPregnant women in the study were found to have low knowledge about nutrition and inadequate dietary diversity intake. The findings underscore the need to improve nutrition knowledge provision in antenatal clinics by emphasizing the importance of a diversified and high-quality diet. Healthcare providers in antenatal care clinics should consistently provide nutrition education and counseling to pregnant women and promote their diversified food consumption. Such knowledge may eventually promote healthier pregnancy and child development by curbing the nutritional deficiencies experienced during pregnancy.

Usability and Acceptability of a SWASH Mobile Intervention for Behaviour Change in WASH Practices

Adequate access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) is the principal determinant of human health and well-being. However, many African countries are facing challenges in implementing proper WASH practices. The School WASH (SWASH) Mobile App was developed using the Human Centred Design (HCD) approach, which leverages behavioural theories to track school students' sanitation and hygiene behaviours and encourage positive behaviour change. This study examined the usability and acceptability of the SWASH Mobile App. A qualitative research methodology was employed to assess in depth (i) whether the App achieves its intended objective of influencing WASH behaviour change in schools and (ii) challenges that affect its success. A total of 62 people from 20 schools' students, teachers, and community members in Tanzania participated in the study. The results demonstrated that the SWASH Mobile App was widely accepted and highly usable. The study further revealed that the main challenges were costly and unstable internet, difficulties in fetching pictures, and voting and lack of SWASH Mobile App awareness. The study recommends collaboration between schools and telecommunication companies for cost-effective internet access, the use of image compression techniques for faster access to pictures, and a marketing strategy to increase app awareness

The Association of eHealth Literacy Skills and mHealth Application Use Among US Adults With Obesity: Analysis of Health Information National Trends Survey Data.

Physical inactivity and a poor diet are modifiable behaviors that contribute to obesity. Obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for chronic diseases, including diabetes. Mobile health (mHealth) apps can play an important adjuvant role in preventing and treating chronic diseases and promoting positive health behavior change among people with obesity, and eHealth literacy skills have the potential to impact mHealth app use. The purpose of this study was to explore the associations between the 2 dimensions, access and application, of eHealth literacy skills and mHealth app use among US adults (≥18 years of age) with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Data were obtained from February to June 2020 using the Health Information National Trends Survey 5. A total of 1079 respondents met the inclusion criteria of adults with obesity and owners of smartphones. Individual associations between mHealth app use and sociodemographic variables were explored using weighted chi-square and 2-tailed t tests. A multivariable weighted logistic regression model was fitted, and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of using mHealth apps with corresponding 95% CIs were reported across multiple sociodemographic variables. An Ising model-weighted network visualization was produced. A receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated, and the area under the curve was reported with the corresponding Delong 95% CI. A majority of respondents were female (550/923, 59.6%) or non-Hispanic White (543/923, 58.8%). Individuals in households earning less than US $50,000 comprised 41.4% (382/923) of the sample. All sociodemographic variables were found to be univariately significant at the 5% level, except employment and region. Results from the multivariable weighted logistic regression model showed that the adjusted odds of using an mHealth app are 3.13 (95% CI 1.69-5.80) and 2.99 (95% CI 1.67-5.37) times higher among those with an access eHealth literacy skill of using an electronic device to look for health or medical information for themselves and an application eHealth literacy skill of using electronic communications with a doctor or doctor's office, respectively. Several sociodemographic variables were found to be significant, such as education, where adjusted ORs comparing subgroups to the lowest educational attainment were substantial (ORs ≥7.77). The network visualization demonstrated that all eHealth literacy skills and the mHealth app use variable were positively associated to varying degrees. This work provides an initial understanding of mHealth app use and eHealth literacy skills among people with obesity, identifying people with obesity subpopulations who are at risk of a digital health divide. Future studies should identify equitable solutions for people with obesity (as well as other groups) and their use of mHealth apps.

Impact of Balanced Lifestyles on Childhood Development: A Study at Crèche

Introduction: In our fast-paced world, children’s dietary habits and behaviour are increasingly concerning, with a tendency toward indulging in sweets and snacks. Insights are derived from observations of 20 children at a crèche facility. Temptation of sweets: Children’s inherent attraction to sweet and salty snacks challenges maintaining a healthy diet. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues, recognizing the pivotal role parents and caregivers play in guiding children toward healthier choices. Significance of a balanced diet: A well-rounded and nutritious diet is crucial for a child’s physical and mental development. Providing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential. Role of activities: Diversifying a child’s routine with engaging activities is a powerful strategy to redirect their focus from unhealthy snacks. Sports, arts, outdoor play, and educational games promote physical fitness, creativity, and cognitive development, contributing to a well-balanced lifestyle. Strategies for encouraging healthy choices: • Lead by example: Modelling healthy habits inspires children to adopt similar behaviour. • Educate about nutrition: Imparting knowledge about the nutritional value of foods equips children to make informed choices. • Make healthy options accessible: Stocking the kitchen with nutritious snacks makes it convenient for children to opt for healthier alternatives. • Limit unhealthy choices: Setting clear limits on sugary snacks helps children develop moderation and self-control. • Create a fun and active environment: Fostering an enjoyable environment involves family outings, games, and making exercise a natural part of daily life. Results: Encouraging results were observed among the 20 children. Two children, aged around 12, demonstrated awareness of healthy habits. Excluding these two, others showed positive changes in behaviour towards sweets and snacks through activities and counselling. Conclusion: Maintaining a balance between a child’s consumption of sweets and snacks and engaging in diverse activities is crucial for overall development. A combination of nutritious choices and engaging activities guides children toward a path of health and happiness

Behaviour change intervention for toothbrushing (lesson and text messages) to prevent dental caries in secondary school pupils: The BRIGHT randomized control trial.

This multicentre, assessor-blinded, two-arm cluster randomized trial evaluated the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a behaviour change intervention promoting toothbrushing for preventing dental caries in UK secondary schools. Pupils aged 11-13 years with their own mobile telephone attending secondary schools with above average free school meals eligibility were randomized (at year-group level) to receive a lesson and twice-daily text messages or to usual care. Year-groups (n = 84) from 42 schools including 4680 pupils (intervention, n = 2262; control, n = 2418) were randomized. In 2383 participants with valid data at baseline and 2.5 years, the primary outcome of presence of at least one treated or untreated carious lesion (D4-6 MFT [Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth] in permanent teeth using International Caries Detection and Assessment System) was 44.6% in the intervention group and 43.0% in control (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 0.85-1.26, p = .72). There were no statistically significant differences in secondary outcomes of presence of at least one treated or untreated carious lesion (D1-6 MFT), number of D4-6 MFT and D1-6 MFT, plaque and bleeding scores or health-related- (Child Health Utility 9D) or oral health-related- quality of life (CARIES-QC). However, twice-daily toothbrushing, reported by 77.6% of pupils at baseline, increased at 6 months (intervention, 86.9%; control, 83.0%; OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03-1.63, p = .03), but returned to no difference at 2.5 years (intervention, 81.0%; control, 79.9%; OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.84-1.30, p = .69). Estimated incremental costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) of the intervention, relative to control, were £1.02 (95% CI -1.29 to 3.23) and -0.003 (95% CI -0.009 to 0.002), respectively, with a 7% chance of being cost-effective (£20 000/QALY gained threshold). There was no evidence of statistically significant difference for caries prevalence at 2.5-years. The intervention's positive 6-month toothbrushing behaviour change did not translate into caries reduction. (ISRCTN 12139369). COVID-19 pandemic adversly affected follow-up.

Evaluation of Teacher Empowerment Education Program 4th Batch in South Tanggerang Using the Krikpatrick Model

The Teacher Empowerment Program (PPGP) is a professional development initiative through education, training, and mentoring that focuses on instructional leadership to promote holistic growth and active, proactive participation of students. The program aims to actively develop educators to implement student-centered learning. This qualitative research employs a narrative approach. The research results show positive behavioral changes in teacher mover after completing PPGP, notably impacting the improvement of classroom learning quality and the cultivation of a learning culture among teachers within the school ecosystem. Although some schools have not fully optimized the growth of a learning culture among their teachers, they are moving in the right direction. Challenges and obstacles are inherent in transformation efforts, reinforcing the appropriateness of the Ministry of Education and Culture's decision to appoint Teacher Empowerment Program participants as school leaders. This move strengthens the force for change and minimizes resistance to or rejection of change.

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INSTAGRAM SOCIAL MEDIA AS AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE POETRY WRITING SKILLS IN GRADE X STUDENTS OF YAPIN KERTASEMAYA VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2022/2023

This research investigates the application of Instagram social media to enhance poetry writing skills among Class X students at SMK YAPIN Kertasemaya during the academic year 2022/2023. The study, focusing on 14 students in the ASKEP class, addresses the identified deficiency in poetry writing proficiency within the school. The research aims to answer two key questions: 1) How does the application of Instagram social media impact learning in poetry writing? 2) What is the effect of Instagram social media on the improvement of learning outcomes in poetry writing? The research employs a classroom action research methodology, with 14 Class X students as subjects. Data collection involves observations and tests conducted in two cycles. The findings reveal a notable enhancement in the process of learning poetry writing skills. In Cycle I, the average test score was 70, and it increased to 73 in Cycle II, indicating a positive progression. Consequently, the research concludes that the implementation of Instagram as a learning tool effectively improves poetry writing skills among Class X ASKEP students at SMK YAPIN Kertasemaya, influencing positive behavioral changes in the students' approach to writing poetry.

STUDY OF CHANGES IN SEXUAL BEHAVIOR IN COUPLES FACING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES

Digital technologies are popular means of exchanging, communicating, and accessing information, and their use has been increasing in recent years. Studies of changes in society's behavior are observed because of the new way of communicating and relating. To evaluate the sexual behavior of couples during the period of social isolation imposed by the pandemic and the frequent use of Digital Technologies (DTs), an online cross-sectional survey was carried out to obtain information on sexual behavior and the use of TDs. A total of 1,357 individuals were interviewed using the Google Forms tool, of which 616 were eligible to participate in the survey. According to the data obtained, DTs were used by 24.02% of the study participants, in which a change in sexual behavior was observed in this group that has the habit of using DTs. The logistic regression analysis verified an association between the variables that predicted significant and positive changes in the sexual behavior of individuals, which points to a tendency towards change in sexual behavior given the greater use of DTs.

FAMILY CONFLICT MANAGEMENT: QUR’ANIC PERSPECTIVE

This study discusses the concept of family conflicts and their management according to the perspective of the Qur'an. The literature review and thematic approach found five conflict areas in the family: leadership and husband-wife relations; the fulfilment of rights and obligations; the achievement of family vision, mission and goals; attitude and physical intimacy issues; and husband-wife incompatibility. Meanwhile, the Qur'anic family conflict management includes minimising and avoiding violence and encouraging positive behavioural changes among family members.

Gamification preferences in nutrition apps: Toward healthier diets and food choices.

Unhealthy eating habits are costly and can lead to serious diseases such as obesity. Nutrition apps offer a promising approach to improving dietary behavior. Gamification elements (GEs) can motivate users to continue using nutrition apps by making them more enjoyable, which can lead to more positive behavioral changes regarding dietary choices. However, the effects of users' preferences and individual characteristics on gamified systems are not yet understood. Current calls for research suggest that personalized gamified systems might lead to user satisfaction, continuous app use, and-ultimately-long-term improvements in diet. The aim was to determine the most preferred GEs in nutrition apps and to define clusters of GEs preferences in terms of personality and socio-demographic characteristics. We surveyed 308 people to measure their preferences regarding GEs in nutrition apps and applied best-worst scaling to determine the most preferred GEs. Furthermore, we used cluster analysis to identify different user clusters and described them in terms of personality and socio-demographic characteristics. We determine that GEs most favored are goals, progress bars, and coupons. We revealed three distinct user clusters in terms of personality and socio-demographic characteristics. Based on the individual factors of openness and self-perception, we find that significant differences exist between the preferences for leaderboards and coupons. We contribute by shedding light on differences and similarities in GE preferences relating to specific contexts and individual factors, revealing the potential for individualized nutrition apps. Our findings will benefit individuals, app designers, and public health institutions.

Teachers' Perceptions of the Efficacy of Positive Behavior Support Systems

Purpose: This study aims to explore teachers' perceptions of the efficacy of Positive Behavior Support (PBS) systems in educational settings. Methods and Materials: Employing a qualitative research design, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with 24 teachers who have experience implementing PBS in their classrooms. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a diverse range of experiences. The interviews were designed to elicit in-depth insights into teachers' perceptions of PBS, focusing on the impact on student behavior, implementation strategies, challenges, and the role of leadership. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and concepts related to the efficacy of PBS. Findings: The analysis revealed six main themes: Impact of PBS on Student Behavior, Implementation Strategies, Perceived Benefits of PBS, Challenges and Barriers, Role of School Leadership, and Teacher Experiences and Perceptions. Teachers reported positive changes in student behavior, including increased engagement and reduced disruptions, as a result of implementing PBS. However, challenges such as resource limitations, the need for ongoing professional development, and the importance of school leadership support were also identified. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of PBS implementation and its varied impacts on the educational environment. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential of PBS systems to foster positive behavioral changes and improve the educational environment. However, it also highlights the complexities involved in implementing such systems, including the need for adequate resources, continuous teacher training, and strong leadership support. Understanding teachers' perceptions provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to the success and challenges of PBS, offering guidance for its effective implementation in schools.

Exploring the Role of Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) in Promoting Gender Sensitivity in Classroom Practices among Educators

This study explored the implementation of the Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG) in educational settings and its impact on student behavior, participation, and learning outcomes. Through a qualitative approach, 12 participants, including students, teachers, a Gender and Development (GAD) coordinator, and a campus executive director, were interviewed to understand their experiences with gender-sensitive practices. The study identified several key challenges in implementing HGDG, including gaps in professional development, insufficient resources, cultural resistance, and a need for clear institutional policies and administrative support. Despite these challenges, participants noted positive behavioral changes, improved student participation, and a greater sense of inclusivity, particularly among female and marginalized students. Gender-sensitive practices such as promoting respect, balanced participation in group activities, and reducing the rigidity of traditional gender roles have contributed to fostering a more inclusive classroom environment. The study further emphasized the need for continuous hands-on training and collaboration with gender sensitivity experts, as well as the improvement of access to gender-sensitive materials and digital resources. Additionally, participants called for stronger leadership involvement and clearer guidelines from school administrators to ensure the consistent application of gender equity principles. Regular monitoring and evaluation of gender-sensitive practices were also identified as essential for sustaining progress and identifying areas for improvement. The study concludes that while significant progress has been made, more efforts are needed to address existing challenges and further integrate gender-sensitive practices into educational institutions. By enhancing professional development, institutional support, and resource availability, schools can create a more equitable and gender-responsive learning environment that benefits all students.

Impact of COVID-19 on the degree of compliance with hand hygiene: a repeated cross-sectional study.

Hand hygiene (HH) is the paramount measure used to prevent healthcare-associated infections. A repeated cross-sectional study was undertaken with direct observation of the degree of compliance on HH of healthcare personnel during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Between, 2018-2019, 9,083 HH opportunities were considered, and 5,821 in 2020-2022. Chi squared tests were used to identify associations. The crude and adjusted odds ratios were used along with a logistic regression model for statistical analyses. Compliance on HH increased significantly (p<0.001) from 54.5% (95% CI: 53.5, 55.5) to 70.1% (95% CI: 68.9, 71.2) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase was observed in four of the five key moments of HH established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (p<0.05), except at moment 4. The factors that were significantly and independently associated with compliance were the time period considered, type of healthcare-personnel, attendance at training sessions, knowledge of HH and WHO guidelines, and availability of hand disinfectant alcoholic solution in pocket format. Highest HH compliance occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting a positive change in healthcare-personnel's behaviour regarding HH recommendations.

The influence of "momentum" on the game outcome while controlling for game types in basketball.

In competitive sports, momentum encompasses positive or negative changes in cognition, physiology, emotions, and behavior caused by sudden or a series of continuous events. Momentum occurring during basketball games leads to significant performance variation regarding positive net points differences for a specific team within a certain period. This study designed a quantitative framework based on two performative dimensions (time constraints and point differentials) to accurately identify momentum in basketball games, and explored the role of momentum in games. We identified 2,083 momentum occurrences in 372 professional elite basketball games. The number of momentum occurrences for winning teams is significantly higher than for losing teams (1.78 ± 0.47 Difference Value, p < 0.001); the correlation between momentum and game outcomes decreased as each quarter progressed. To distinguish the influence of contextual variables on momentum, we divided games into five types based on the team quality differences between the team and the opponent team. The decision tree model shows that first-quarter momentum is critical in games where weaker teams defeat stronger teams. This study provides insights for basketball coaches to formulate game strategies. More importantly, the momentum conceptual framework can help researchers identify and capture momentum, offering inspiration and reference for subsequent research.

“Media’s Influence on Enhancing Water Use Efficiency and Climate Control: Community Capacity Building in Kenya”

In recent years, the global community has witnessed the increasing impacts of climate change, resulting in various environmental challenges, including water scarcity (Stringer et al., 2021). Developing countries like Kenya are particularly vulnerable to these changes due to their heavy reliance on agriculture and limited access to water resources (Maingey et al., 2022). Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving not only scientific and technological solutions but also community engagement and capacity building. One vital aspect of this approach is the role of media in disseminating information and fostering awareness among communities. Media platforms, including television, radio, print, and digital media, possess the unique ability to reach a broad audience and convey messages that can drive positive behavior change (Bara et al., 2021). In Kenya, where access to information is growing but remains uneven, the media can be a powerful tool to educate and empower communities regarding water use efficiency and climate control (Wutich et al., 2023). This study seeks to explore the significant role that media plays in facilitating community capacity building for enhancing water use efficiency and promoting climate control in Kenya. By examining how media channels communicate information, influence public perception, and stimulate local engagement, this research aims to uncover the various strategies employed by media to drive positive changes in water management practices and climate-conscious behaviors. Through an in-depth analysis of media campaigns, coverage, and communication strategies, this study will contribute to a better understanding of how media can effectively shape perceptions, attitudes, and actions related to water conservation and climate resilience (Ali et al., 2023). The insights gained from this research could inform policy recommendations and practical interventions that leverage the power of media for sustainable community development in Kenya and potentially serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.

Promoting responsive care and early learning practices in Northern Ghana: results from a counselling intervention within nutrition and health services.

This study assesses change in caregiver practices after integrating responsive care and early learning (RCEL) in nutrition and health services and community platforms in northern Ghana. We trained health facility workers and community health volunteers to deliver RCEL counselling to caregivers of children under 2 years of age through existing health facilities and community groups. We assessed changes in caregivers' RCEL practices before and after the intervention with a household questionnaire and caregiver-child observations. The study took place in Sagnarigu, Gushegu, Wa East and Mamprugu-Moagduri districts from April 2022 to March 2023. Study sites included seventy-nine child welfare clinics (CWC) at Ghana Health Service facilities and eighty village savings and loan association (VSLA) groups. We enrolled 211 adult caregivers in the study sites who had children 0-23 months at baseline and were enrolled in a CWC or a VSLA. We observed improvements in RCEL and infant and young child feeding practices, opportunities for early learning (e.g. access to books and playthings) in the home environment and reductions in parental stress. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating RCEL content into existing nutrition and health services. The findings can be used to develop, enhance and advocate for policies integrating RCEL into existing services and platforms in Ghana. Future research may explore the relationship between positive changes in caregiver behaviour and improvements in child development outcomes as well as strategies for enhancing paternal engagement in care practices, improving child supervision and ensuring an enabling environment.