Family Structure Research Articles

Why should i be judged? Exploring third party perceptions of workplace incivility against single working mothers

A serious problem in the workplace is incivility, which impacts especially vulnerable groups like single mothers who hold jobs and experience subtle unfair or damaging treatment. As the number of single working mothers continues to rise in today’s workforce, this study aims to clarify third-party perceptions about incivility against them at work and subsequent influences on individuals as well as the organization. Because the analysis is embedded in theories of social role expectations and organizational justice, it explores third-party observers’ perceptions (such as coworkers or supervisors) of whether incivility directed at single working mothers differs from that experienced by their comparison group—professionally equivalent peers who do not share equal caregiver responsibilities. The researchers employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative surveys and in-depth qualitative interviews to collect rich data from participants who represented several fields. They report their results that third-party observers are less likely to experience vicarious justification of incivility against single working mothers but may be equally unlikely or even more reluctant than in the case of other employees and furthermore find this data account for these differences. The results illustrate the intricate interplay of gender, family structure and work dynamics on workplace outcomes—all leading to lower job satisfaction rates, a high level of stress or even stagnation in career progression for single working mothers. Our findings also extend the workplace incivility literature by demonstrating ways in which single working mothers are particularly vulnerable to this form of mistreatment and a broader need for organizational policies that cultivate an inclusive, supportive environment. Implications for human resource management, organizational culture and policy based on these findings are discussed as it may provide some recommendations for handling incivility in the workplace environment.

Emotional management and clinical communication among nursing students: a single institution experience

BackgroundThe development of emotional and clinical communication is crucial for being a nurse. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influencing factors of emotional management and clinical communication competencies among nursing students, to inform strategies for enhancing the management and nursing care practices.MethodsThis study was a cross-sectional survey. The study period was from December 1 to December 31, 2022, during which nursing students were the population of the survey. The assessments of the emotional management and clinical communication competencies of the nursing students were conducted using the validated Emotion Management Ability Questionnaire and the Clinical Communication Ability Scale, respectively.ResultsA total of 356 nursing students were investigated in this study. The nursing students had moderate ability of emotional management and clinical communication. The emotional management ability was correlated with the clinical communication ability of nursing students (all p<0.05). The results of multivariate regression analysis indicated that gender, educational level and home place were the independent influencing factors on the emotional management ability in the nursing students (all p<0.05). Family structure, internship time and personality were the independent influencing factors for the clinical communication ability among the nursing students (all p<0.05).ConclusionsThe competencies in emotional management and clinical communication among clinical nursing students warrant enhancement. It is imperative to implement tailored educational and training programs to optimize the development and performance of nursing students in their clinical training.

Identification of Laccase Family of Auricularia auricula-judae and Structural Prediction Using Alphafold

Laccase is an enzyme that plays an important role in fungi, including lignin degradation, stress defense, and formation of fruiting bodies. Auricularia auricula-judae is a white-rot fungus in the Basidiomycota phylum, capable of delignifying wood. In this study, seven genes belonging to the laccase family were identified through de novo sequencing, containing Cu-Oxidase, Cu-Oxidase_2, and Cu-Oxidase_3 domains. Subsequently, the physical characteristics, phylogenetic relationships, protein secondary structure, and tertiary structure of the laccase family (AaLac1–AaLac7) were analyzed. Prediction of N-glycosylation sites identified 2 to 10 sites in the laccase family, with AaLac7 having the highest number of sites at 10. Sequence alignment and analysis of the laccase family showed high consistency in signature sequences. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the relationship among laccases within the family, with AaLac3–AaLac4 and AaLac5–AaLac6 being closely positioned on the tree, exhibiting high similarity in tertiary structure predictions. This study identified and analyzed laccase family genes in Auricularia auricula-judae using de novo sequencing, offering a simple method for identifying and analyzing the laccase family in organisms with unknown genetic information.

Epigenetic signatures of asthma: a comprehensive study of DNA methylation and clinical markers

BackgroundAsthma, a complex respiratory disease, presents with inflammatory symptoms in the lungs, blood, and other tissues. We investigated the relationship between DNA methylation and 35 clinical markers of asthma.MethodsThe Illumina Infinium EPIC v1 methylation array was used to evaluate 742,442 CpGs in whole blood from 319 participants from 94 families. They were part of the Netherlands Twin Register from families with at least one member suffering from severe asthma. Repeat blood samples were taken after 10 years from 182 individuals. Principal component analysis on the clinical asthma markers yielded ten principal components (PCs) that explained 92.8% of the total variance. We performed epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) for each of the ten PCs correcting for familial structure and other covariates.Results221 unique CpGs reached genome-wide significance at timepoint 1 after Bonferroni correction. PC7, which correlated with loadings of eosinophil counts and immunoglobulin levels, accounted for the majority of associations (204). Enrichment analysis via the EWAS Atlas identified 190 of these CpGs to be previously identified in EWASs of asthma and asthma-related traits. Proximity assessment to previously identified SNPs associated with asthma identified 17 unique SNPs within 1 MB of two of the 221 CpGs. EWAS in 182 individuals with epigenetic data at a second timepoint identified 49 significant CpGs. EWAS Atlas enrichment analysis indicated that 4 of the 49 were previously associated with asthma or asthma-related traits. Comparing the estimates of all the significant associations identified across the two time points yielded a correlation of 0.81.ConclusionWe identified 270 unique CpGs that were associated with PC scores generated from 35 clinical markers of asthma, either cross-sectionally or 10 years later. A strong correlation was present between effect sizes at the 2 timepoints. Most associations were identified for PC7, which captured blood eosinophil counts and immunoglobulin levels and many of these CpGs have previous associations in earlier studies of asthma and asthma-related traits. The results point to a robust DNA methylation profile as a new, stable biomarker for asthma.

Barriers and Facilitators in Lactation Support for the Preterm Mother-Infant Dyad: An Integrated Approach.

Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for both mothers and infants, particularly preterm infants, where it serves as a therapeutic strategy to reduce mortality and morbidities. However, breastfeeding practices are threatened globally by societal norms and systemic barriers at both micro and macro levels. This paper explores the complex interplay of these barriers and facilitators, focusing on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) setting. Preterm infants face specific feeding challenges due to immature physiological functions, yet evidence supports that strategies like cue-based feeding and individualized care can enhance feeding success and health outcomes. For mothers, initiating and maintaining lactation after preterm birth is critical but challenging, with early lactation support and achieving sufficient milk volume being key predictors of success. Partner support significantly influences lactation outcomes, although more inclusive research is needed for diverse family structures. In the NICU, a multidisciplinary approach to lactation care is vital, emphasizing the need for experienced staff and family-centered practices. NICU design, policies promoting parental presence, and adherence to Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative guidelines further support breastfeeding. This paper aims to provide directives for local breastfeeding policies through an integrated approach, considering societal attitudes and healthcare practices. The findings advocate for improved lactation support in NICUs, inclusive language and policies, and further research into diverse familial and gender roles in breastfeeding.

Communication dynamics and media interactions of young adults who have attempted suicide: a qualitative thematic analysis

ObjectiveThe study examines the potential effects of communication processes and media consumption habits on suicide ideation among male and female young adults aged 18–29 who have attempted suicide at least once.MethodsIn-depth interviews were analyzed using MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2024, and thematic analysis was applied according to Braun and Clarke’s model.ResultsFour themes emerged: (1) Family-related factors, (2) sociopsychological factors, (3) sociocultural factors, and (4) media-related factors. Regarding family-related factors, most participants come from broken family structures and commonly report issues with family communication and experiences of violence. Regarding sociopsychological factors, anger issues, despair, and addictions among participants were observed to increase suicide tendencies. Regarding sociocultural factors, most participants expressed difficulties in conforming to society and feeling pressures from cultural or religious expectations. Regarding media-related factors, it was noted that a vast majority of participants spend long hours consuming media daily and frequently interact with content that leads them into adverse emotional states, primarily for time passing on social media platforms.DiscussionThis research not only reinforces information in the literature but also presents unique findings compared to similar studies, particularly in cultural and geographical contexts. The results uniquely highlight the diversity in perceptions of the relationship between religion and suicide. While literature generally notes religion as a deterrent to suicide, this study reveals that intense religious pressure could increase suicidal tendencies through effects like rejection and hatred of religious values. Media also plays a reinforcing role in this context.ConclusionIn conclusion, this study elucidates the complex interactions underlying suicide attempts among young adults and provides a solid foundation for policies and interventions aimed at better managing media interactions, which play a critical role in suicide prevention efforts.

Correlation between Geography of Residence, Socio-Culture and Family Structure with Early Marriage In South Bangka

Background: One of four women in the world who had married before 18 years old. Bangka Belitung Islands Province was in the third highest rate of early marriage in Indonesia. This province was mostly a coastal area that had a variety of social cultures. The purpose of the study was to analyze the correlation between the geography of residence, socio-culture, and family structure with early marriage and explore these three factors. Methods: This study used a qualitative study method with 13 informants for qualitative research (5 young women and their parents, village head, Head of Religious Affairs Office, Head of Islamic Community Development Division, Ministry of Religion). Qualitative research was conducted by conducting in-depth interviews with purposive sampling and explained through transcription, coding and categorization processes. Results: Qualitative research found that the geographical factors of residence, socio-culture and family structure influence early marriage. Conclusion: The geography of residence, socio-culture and family structure influenced early marriage. Suggestion: A synergistic effort by providing reproductive health education and sexuality education to children and adolescents. Keywords: Early marriage, geography of residence, socio-cultural, family structure, South Bangka

Social-Economic Factors and Secondary School Dropout among Girls in Mariani Ward, Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya

This study investigated the high dropout rates among girls in secondary schools in Mariani Ward, a critical issue observed in many developing regions. The specific objectives of the study were to assess how household income, parental education, and family structure influence girls’ dropout rates. The study was grounded in the Relative Deprivation theory and utilized a descriptive survey design, involving a sample of 385 respondents selected from a larger population of 10,202 through cluster sampling method to ensure representation of various groups within the population. Within the target population, five clusters or sub-locations were identified based on their diverse characteristics. The sample included female dropouts as well as key informants such as head teachers, household heads, and local leaders. Data collection was achieved through questionnaires and interviews, and quantitative analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The study employed inferential statistical methods, including correlation analysis, chi-square tests, and binomial logistic regression, to assess the impact of socio-economic factors on dropout rates. The results revealed significant positive correlations between dropout rates and household income (0.684), parental education status (0.547), and family structure (0.761). Binomial logistic regression analysis further confirmed the substantial influence of these factors on dropout rates. In addition to these factors, the study also indicated the presence of other unidentified variables affecting dropout rates. This highlights the necessity for further research to explore these additional influences. Based on these findings, the study recommends implementing targeted interventions to address the identified socio-economic challenges. These recommendations include developing financial support programs for low-income families, enhancing parental education and involvement, and fostering supportive family environments. Such measures are essential for reducing dropout rates and promoting sustained educational participation among girls in Mariani Ward. The study provides actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to effectively improve girls' access to education and support their academic persistence.

Educating lifestyle modification to diabetic patients

The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is steadily increasing, making them a major health concern. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the major non-communicable diseases that affects the public health and the community. DM is a chronic, complex disease that requires multi-factor risk reduction strategies apart from its maintaining blood glucose level. One of the community-based strategy is to educate diabetic patients about life style modifications. Keeping that as a guideline, a nurse-led intervention was carried out to ring about a change in life style in these patients. About 60 diabetic patients with equal number of control subjects were taken for the pilot study. Data were collected through interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire before (pre-test) and after nurse-led intervention (post-test) The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics; the calculated data were tabulated and graphed. The results of the study show that diabetic patients included in the study have improved their knowledge of life style modification. The community nurse intervention improved their perspective and understood the importance of life style medication (from 16.19 to 24.98%). This was tested using the student paired t test. Outcome of the test before the intervention showed significant change. Pre-test value was (53.97%) and the post-test intervention was 83.27%. The effect of such intervention was influenced the age, gender, education, and family structure. The intervention was found to be more effective in male patients of the age group 30-40 years with educational background and stable family structure having a joint family. The awareness created by nurse led intervention is effective and is significant taking age, sex, education level and the family structure. The pilot study indicates that further studies may be carried out in the community with general population and then specifically in patients with diabetes.

Shared Households in the U.S.: A New Perspective on Family Structure and Adolescent Substance Use

Research on the family structure–adolescent substance use association has largely neglected shared households—those in which non-parent adult figures live in the home—even though the number of these households has increased substantially in the U.S. Using data from the state of Florida, we assessed the association between several shared household structures and adolescent substance use, along with whether their associations were mediated by parent-child relationship quality or parental monitoring/discipline. Adolescents in shared family households, especially when a parent did not reside in the home, manifested a higher odds of marijuana use and vaping than those in two-parent households. Monitoring/discipline partly mediated the household structure effects, suggesting that engaging in high levels of monitoring can lower the risk of substance use even in families without two parents.

Biology, function and structure of the calcium homeostasis modulator family.

Calcium homeostasis modulators (CALHMs) are the most recently discovered members of the large-pore channel family. They mediate the conductance of ions and larger molecules, such as ATP, and play critical roles in pathways related to Alzheimer's disease, neuroinflammation, neuromodulation, taste perception and innate immune responses. Since the inaugural report on CALHM1 in 2008, significant breakthroughs have revealed their biological roles, ion and ATP channel functions, and structures, positioning the field for further advancements. In this review, we discuss the overall progress and recent developments in understanding the biological roles, functions and molecular structures of CALHM proteins.

An Appraisal of the Conduct and Character of Men in the Society: Perspectives of Yorùbá Female Novelists

In Yorùbá literature, the focus has often been on the roles, struggles and societal expectations of women. However, a notable silence exists in the exploration of men’s character. This apparent oversight exposes the prevailing patriarchal system, which has historically cast men into roles defined by fatherhood and as the head of the family. This narrative portrays men as guardians of traditions, providers and the pillars of family structures. Yet, beneath the surface lies the curiosity concerning the authenticity of these portrayals. Two questions become pertinent: one, do these depictions truly reflect the male identity, or are they just shadows cast by a societal construct designed to reinforce established norms? Two, are men truly capable of meeting the standards set for them, or are they merely being shielded from scrutiny by a narrative that perpetuates their idealized roles? Using the Feminist theory and a Sociological Approach, with narratives from fifteen selected novels authored by Yorùbá women, this study scrutinizes the narratives surrounding the portrayal of male conduct and characters in society by questioning the authenticity of the pedestal upon which men are placed and the realities that shape their lives arising from their conducts, and the character displayed. Findings from the Yorùbá female novelists’ perspectives reveal that lots of men act contrary to the assumed pattern of portrayal. Their shortcomings are unknown to society because the women in the men’s lives cover up the inadequacies of such men. These revelations confirm that the portrayal of men as superhuman beings does not truly represent their conduct and character in society.

Exploring the Socio-economic Conditions of Potato Farmers in Farrukhabad District of Uttar Pradesh, India

This study investigates the socio-economic profile of potato growers in Farrukhabad district, Uttar Pradesh, aiming to understand their demographic composition, educational background, caste distribution, marital status, family structure, landholding size, occupation, income levels, social participation, and possession of farming resources. A sample of 100 respondents cultivating potatoes as the main crop was selected from Kamalganj block, Farrukhabad district. Data were collected through personal interviews using a pre-structured schedule and analyzed using percentages. The results reveal that the majority of respondents are middle-aged, literate, and belong to scheduled castes. Most respondents are married and come from joint families with medium-sized households. Marginal and small landholdings dominate, and agriculture is the primary occupation, supplemented by subsidiary activities such as dairying and business. Income levels vary, with a significant proportion falling within the medium-income bracket. Social participation is moderate, with most respondents engaging in multiple organizations. Farm resources such as farm power and implements are moderately possessed. Extension services and information sources play a crucial role, with most respondents exhibiting moderate contact. This study provides valuable insights into the socio-economic landscape influencing agricultural practices among potato growers, which can inform policy formulation and extension activities aimed at fostering agricultural development and rural prosperity.

Supply of Alcohol in Early Childhood Leads to Higher Rates of Drinking in Adolescence

Abstract Background Adolescents often experience their first encounter with alcohol at home, provided by parents who perceive it as a means of safeguarding their children against later alcohol-related issues. However, research shows that parental supply of alcohol is a risk factor for adolescent drinking. Notably, existing studies solely focused on parental supply during adolescence, neglecting the prospective evaluation of parental alcohol provision during early childhood on later alcohol use. Methods The data came from the Czech part of the European Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ELSPAC), a longitudinal birth cohort study (N = 5,777). Mothers reported on the frequency of offering alcohol to children when children were 3, 5, 7, and 11 years old. The outcome was adolescent alcohol use at ages 15 and 18, reported by adolescents, mothers, and pediatricians. Control variables included sex, maternal education, family structure, and parental alcohol consumption. Results Three classes of children were identified based on parental alcohol supply: abstainers (75.5% of sample), infrequent sippers (16.2%), and frequent sippers (8.3%). Parental drinking increased the risk of both infrequent and frequent sipping. These classes were entered into two structural models (age 15 and age 18 alcohol use modeled as latent factors), alongside covariates. Compared to abstainer class, infrequent and frequent childhood sippers exhibited significantly higher alcohol consumption at age 15 (β = .21, p < .001; β = .25, p < .001, respectively) and age 18 (β = .11, p < .05; β = .24, p < .001, respectively). Conclusions This study represents the first prospective investigation quantifying early childhood alcohol exposure and its subsequent association with adolescent alcohol consumption. Findings emphasize the influence of family dynamics on alcohol behaviors, underscoring the necessity for targeted preventive measures, particularly within families with higher parental alcohol consumption. Key messages • Offering alcohol to children at ages 3-11, even infrequently, significantly increases the risk of more frequent drinking at ages 15 and 18, compared to those with no early exposure. • Parents who drink are more likely to have children who sip alcohol early, leading to higher alcohol consumption in adolescence. Prevention efforts should focus on family habits and early education.

SFT for ASD: A systemic intervention for neurodiverse families

AbstractTo increase the number of family‐based interventions and deal directly with the family dynamic that creates maladaptive manners of coping and connection, structural family therapy (SFT) for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was developed. The model slowly supports families in being more flexible in their relationships and dynamics while imparting interpersonal skills which enhance communication particularly between the children with ASD and their parents by reforming and supporting an appropriate family structure and family dynamic.

Impact of loneliness and social support on leisure physical activity in adolescents in Luxembourg

Abstract Background Healthy lifestyle includes a regular practice of vigorous physical activity in adolescents’ leisure time. Engaging in physical activity (PA) depends on individual, social and environmental factors. Previous literature has showed that social support and loneliness can influence the practice of PA. The study aims to analyse the relation between PA during leisure time and social support and loneliness among adolescents in Luxembourg. Methods The study includes 7049 adolescents from the Health Behaviours in School-aged Children (HBSC) Luxembourg 2022 survey. PA in leisure time was categorised according to WHO recommendations for vigorous physical activity. Perceived social support (friends, family, teacher, and classmate) was dichotomised in high support and in low/medium and loneliness in feel often lonely and not feel often lonely. It was executed a binomial logistic regression to analyse the PA levels in leisure time by loneliness and social support, controlling by age, migration background, perceived wealth, and family structure, split by gender. Results In Luxembourg, boys who perceived high support from most of the sources and didn’t feel often lonely had higher chances to reach WHO recommendations for PA during leisure time (e.g. loneliness: OR = 1.38, CI95%[1.11-1.74]; family support: OR = 1.31, CI 95%[1.10-1.56]), except for teacher support (OR = 0.79, CI95%[0.67-0.93]). In contrast, girls who only perceived high support from classmates (OR = 1.21, CI95%[1.05-1.4]) and teachers (OR = 1.19, CI95%[1.01-1.38]) had higher chances to be physically active. Conclusions This is the first study to investigate the impact of social support and loneliness among adolescents in Luxembourg. Future research should investigate social-related barriers and facilitators of PA during leisure time. Key messages • Understanding adolescents social support can guide towards effective strategies that promote physical activity during leisure time. • Boys benefit from several social support sources, while girls thrive with encouragement from classmates and teachers to stay physically active in leisure time.

BEST-COST project: a scoping review on the use of multiple deprivation indices in Europe

Abstract Background A Multiple Deprivation Index (MDI) is a composite measure designed to comprehensively evaluate the socio-economic status of individuals within a population. While various countries have employed their own versions of MDI to assess deprivation, none have been developed at the European level thus far. The BEST-COST project (www.best-cost.eu) aims to integrate the dimension of social inequalities in the assessment of the burden of environmental stressors, using a new MDI. Therefore, the objective of this study is to conduct a scoping review to identify and assess current MDIs while extracting details on the methodologies employed in their development. Methods We conducted a scoping review on deprivation indices in European countries, encompassing three databases (Medline, Embase and Web of Science). Following screening of all the articles based on inclusion criteria, we specifically examined the methodological choices made across the development of the MDIs, such as the choice of the underlying indicators, geographical scales, data source used, and if and/or how indicator weighting was applied in creating a composite score. Results In total, 22 MDIs were identified from 195 articles. 42% of these indices were developed from census data at the municipality level or finer. About half of them (55%) employed weighting of indicators, thereby reflecting their relative importance within the index’s score. From these 22 MDIs, a total of 156 individual indicators were extracted. These indicators encompass several domains such as basic amenities, crime, education, employment, family structure or income. The extensive variety of indicators can be attributed to cultural differences within the EU, data availability and the specific time period during which each index was developed. Conclusions Several European countries have separately developed their own MDI, showcasing significant variability in both the included individual indicators and the methodologies applied. Key messages • This review highlights the variability of existing indices and which methodologies could be used for the development of a Europe-wide multiple deprivation index. • It further emphasizes the importance of considering cultural differences and data availability across countries in this process.

Association of healthy lifestyle on overweight and obesity among adolescents in Luxembourg

Abstract Background Adolescent overweight and obesity are significant public health challenges. Understanding the impact of healthy lifestyle behaviours is crucial for effective intervention strategies. The aim of this study is to analyse the association between healthy lifestyle behaviours with overweight and obesity among adolescents in Luxembourg. Methods The study was based on the HBSC Luxembourg 2022 survey and includes 8415 adolescents aged 11 to 18 years. Adolescents self-reported the frequency of fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, height, and body mass. Eating and physical activity behaviours were categorized based on WHO recommendations. Body Mass Index categorization followed International Obesity Task Force criteria. Binomial logistic regression of obesity and overweight with the interaction between healthy diet and physical activity was performed, controlling for age, gender, family affluence, migration background, and family structure. Results The results indicated a significant protective effect of healthy lifestyle behaviours against overweight and obesity. For overweight, adolescents engaging in either fruit and vegetable consumption (OR = 0.829, 95% CI [0.697-0.986]) or physical activity (OR = 0.719, 95% CI [0.566-0.913]) showed reduced odds compared to those with unhealthy behaviours. For obesity, similar associations were observed. Adolescents engaging in physical activity (OR = 0.407, 95% CI [0.235-0.705]) showed reduced odds compared to those with unhealthy behaviours. Combining both behaviours resulted in the lowest risk of obesity (OR = 0.366, 95% CI [0.177-0.760]) and overweight (OR = 0.473, 95% CI [0.340-0.658]). Conclusions Promoting health eating and physical activity behaviours are important strategies for preventing overweight and obesity in youth in Luxembourg. Implementing targeted interventions aimed to promote these behaviours could mitigate the burden of overweight and obesity in this population. Key messages • Healthy lifestyle matters: Fruit and vegetables consumption or regular physical activity significantly reduce the risk of overweight and obesity among adolescents. • Combining behaviours counts: Concurrent engagement in both fruit and vegetables consumption and physical activity offers the greatest protection against overweight and obesity.

Parent and adolescent perceptions of parent–child developmental relationships: The role of family routines

AbstractObjectiveThis study examined family routines in relation to the strength of parent–child developmental relationships and discordant perceptions among parents and their adolescent children.BackgroundPositive parent–child relationships and regular engagement in family routines are known to create a positive environment in which adolescents can thrive. Yet both parents and their children hold unique perspectives on family structure and functioning. Agreement between parent and child reports tend to be low and often become increasingly discrepant during adolescence. Engaging in consistent and predictable family routines may not only strengthen parent–child relationships but also result in more concordant perceptions of the quality of their shared relationship.MethodUsing data from 633 matched parents and their children, we examined the association between engagement in family routines and the strength of parent–adolescent relationships including discrepant reports using a latent congruence model.ResultsFamily routines were positively associated with stronger parent–adolescent relationships and less discrepant reports of this critical relationship.ConclusionEngagement in family routines plays an important role in parent–adolescent developmental relationships.ImplicationsFindings have important implications for practices and research focused on improving adolescent outcomes through family structures and parent–child relationships.

Young carers in Ghana: caring activities, ways into care and the impacts of caregiving

ABSTRACT In Ghana, children often provide care and support to family members with disabilities, mental illnesses and other health conditions. Understanding the nature of their caring activities is essential for identifying stressors and promoting better health and wellbeing outcomes for this group of children, described in the wider literature as young carers. This qualitative study investigated the nature and impact of caring activities on young carers aged 11–17 years. The findings revealed that young carers provide domestic, financial, medical and personal care. Caring activities while beneficial, result in a double burden, as young carers often support both the care recipients and their dependents. Despite the challenges associated with caring activities, the study also reveals the myriad reasons young carers enter care work, suggesting that the work of young carers is not simply an obligation or a choice but a process and an integral part of Ghanian family structures. The study highlights the urgent need for formal mechanisms to identify and support young carers and their care recipients in Ghana.