Social Support Systems Research Articles

Examine the Predictive Relationship between Perceived Social Support and Perceived Stress among Pregnant Women

The woman's mental and physical health will unavoidably suffer throughout her pregnancy. Extreme mood swings and, in rare occasions, mental instability can occur. These factors make pregnancy a time when a woman has to undertake bio-psycho-social modifications, such as establishing strong social support systems, in order to alleviate the stress that comes with being pregnant. Objective: To investigate the predictive relationship between perceived social support and perceived stress among pregnant women in Pakistan. Methods: The study used a correlational cross-sectional research design. The sample consisted of (N=72) pregnant females in their third trimester with an age range between 18 to 37 years (Mean age= 26.3; SD=4.4) was selected from departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology of various hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan by using purposive sampling technique. The data were collected from December 2022 till January 2023. The demographic information form, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Perceived Stress Scale were used, and analysis of data were done by using Regression analysis and One-way ANOVA through SPSS version 25.0. Results: The findings revealed a significant negative predictive relationship between perceived social support from friends and perceived stress of pregnant women (b= -.482, p<.05). The analysis of variance reveals that significant mean differences in socioeconomic status and number of miscarriages on perceived stress are present among pregnant women. Conclusions: These results emphasize the need to develop comprehensive strategies for assisting pregnant women by taking into account the aspects of social support, and make interventions to tackle stress successfully, and enhance maternal well-being throughout the pregnancy.

은둔형 외톨이의 은둔생활 경험에 관한 연구

The purpose of this study is to understand the reclusive life of reclusive loners. To achieve this, in-depth interviews were conducted with three reclusive loners. The interviews were transcribed verbatim for each participant, and field notes taken during the interviews were analyzed. The analysis resulted in the identification of 55 concepts, 20 subcategories, and 6 main categories. The main categories were ‘Life before reclusive living,’ ‘Timing and triggers of reclusive living,’ ‘Lifestyle during reclusion,’ ‘Challenges of reclusive living,’ ‘Efforts to break free from reclusion and experiences of breaking free,’ and ‘Necessary factors to exit reclusive living.’ Based on the research findings, six specific support measures have been proposed to establish regulations for reclusiveness and social support systems for loners.

Is there a relationship between abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs seen in hair results?

Combined use of alcohol and illicit drugs is a serious health and social problem. In this study, it was examined, whether a relationship between alcohol and drug abuse can be ascertained by comparison of alcohol marker and drug concentrations in hair. In the frame of a social support system for families with parental abuse of illicit drugs, hair samples were analyzed between 2011 and 2022 for methadone, heroin (6-acetylmorphine), cocaine, amphetamine, ecstasy (MDMA), cannabinoids (THC), and the alcohol markers ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl palmitate (EtPa). For 1314 hair samples from adolescent and adult family members, the hair results show a prevalence of combined occasional or regular drug use and social or abusive alcohol use of 41%-60% except heroin (35%). The drug concentrations were statistically compared in the three categories of abstinence or moderate drinking, social drinking, and alcohol abuse. For the most frequently detected drug cocaine (n = 703), a significant increase of the concentrations with rising alcohol consumption was found. The frequent detection of cocaethylene proved the preferred simultaneous intake of both substances. For THC (n = 489), no significant difference between the alcohol consumer groups was seen. Concerning the less frequently detected methadone (n = 89), 6-acetylmorphine (n = 92), amphetamine (n = 123), and MDMA (n = 105), no clear trend between drug and alcohol marker results was determined. It is concluded that the evaluation of hair results is an appropriate way to study the extent of combined drug-alcohol consumption and complements other studies based on acquisition of consumption data by interview or questionnaire.

Legal Protection for Victims of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue globally, often leaving victims without a sense of justice or adequate protection. In many cases, resolutions fail to address the needs of domestic violence victims, perpetuating their suffering and leaving them vulnerable to further harm. Recognizing the severity of this issue, the implementation of legal protections outlined in Law Number 23 of 2004 concerning the Elimination of Domestic Violence is crucial. The research method employed by the author utilizes a normative legal approach, focusing on legal norms within statutory regulations. By gathering primary and secondary legal materials, the author examines the problem of domestic violence and seeks to align findings with established legal principles. This methodological approach, supplemented by literature reviews, enables the author to conclude the unequal dynamics within marital relationships that perpetuate domestic violence. Legal protection for victims of domestic violence is paramount as all forms of violence, particularly within the home, constitute human rights violations. Victims endure physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect, resulting in profound suffering and loss. Ensuring the protection of victims' rights is imperative to deliver justice and alleviate their trauma. However, many victims hesitate to report domestic violence due to feelings of embarrassment or fear of further harm. This reluctance underscores the critical need for comprehensive legal protections that prioritize the safety and well-being of victims. By fostering an environment of support and empowerment, victims can feel more confident in seeking justice and breaking the cycle of abuse. In conclusion, addressing domestic violence requires a multifaceted approach that combines legal enforcement with social support systems. By upholding the principles outlined in Law Number 23 of 2004 and providing comprehensive protections for victims, society can work towards eradicating domestic violence and ensuring justice for all.

Korean Hospital Nurses’ Experiences with COVID-19: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Findings

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital nurses in South Korea cared for patients amid their own anxiety and fear of infection, armed with a sense of professional duty and overcoming all odds to end the country’s infectious disease pandemic. This study aims to provide a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies examining the perceptions and experiences of nurses who cared for patients in dedicated COVID-19 hospitals in South Korea. Electronic databases, including RISS, KISS, KMbase, NDSL, KoreaMed, DBpia, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane, were searched for research published until 2023. The study included research using qualitative approaches. These were reviewed and analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach. The quality of the studies was ascertained using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist for qualitative research. Ultimately, 13 studies involving 219 nurses were included in the final review. Six major themes and thirteen subthemes emerged. The six topics are: “The crisis of a pandemic that suddenly appeared”, “Challenges in nursing patients with infectious diseases”, “A struggle in an unknown time due to a prolonged infectious disease”, “Ethical dilemmas in the face of infectious diseases”, “Duality of the social support system”, and “Professional growth for nurses regarding infectious diseases”. During the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic, nurses were able to overcome difficult situations through their interactions with patients, sense of professional mission, and commitment to nursing. Most importantly, they persevered through their collaboration and closeness with fellow nurses, despite confusion about their professional identity, the ethical dilemmas they faced in patient care, and dual attitudes regarding their social support system. To prepare for future infectious disease outbreaks, a multifaceted support system should be established to enable nurses to have positive interactions with their families, colleagues, and patients, which are central to their resilience.

Quality of life of people living with chronic hepatitis B: The role of social support system.

People living with chronic hepatitis B (PLCHB) are recommended to follow a lifelong monitoring regimen and face increased risk of liver cancer. Additionally, PLCHB frequently encounter stigma and discrimination, and relationship disruptions because of their chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Social support plays a key role in coping with chronic illnesses; however, this is inadequately assessed for PLCHB. This study aims to assess the physical, social, and mental impacts of living with CHB, the strategies PLCHB utilize to cope with their disease, and how social support-or lack of-impacts their journey with hepatitis B. The study was promoted through the Hepatitis B Foundation social media platforms, interested individuals filled-in a form expressing their interest to participate. The researcher conducted 24 telephone interviews in English, with PLCHB ≥18 years of age residing in the United States (U.S.) and Canada. Questions focused on the lived experiences of CHB and explored social support mechanisms that helped PLCHB. PLCHB experience a wide range of impacts (physical, social, and mental) that negatively affect their quality of life. Participants reported that receiving social support from their close network of individuals, hepatitis B community, or healthcare providers positively influenced their perspective on their future health and helped them adhere to treatment. The physical, social, and mental impacts of living with hepatitis B significantly affect the quality of life of PLCHB, calling for more research to document these impacts, and design integrated care models to address them. Social support appears to play an essential role in helping PLCHB cope with their disease and should be further studied.

Navigating the emotional terrain of prison reentry: State‐sanctioned gendered violence

AbstractThe emotional experiences of incarceration are directly tied to state‐sanctioned gendered violence. Most incarcerated women have a history of trauma, stemming directly from broader socio‐political and economic forces, which is further rendered throughout the incarceration and reentry process. The carceral system in the United States disrupts family and social support systems, fails to provide accessible and adequate mental health and substance use services, and denies stabilization resources such as housing, employment, and citizenry for women once released from prison, yet their emotional experiences are largely absent in analyses of this gendered violence. Drawing from a larger intimate ethnography project with a woman, LaTasha, recently released from a 25‐year to life prison sentence, this article examines how women negotiate and express emotions within the context of prison reentry contributing to feminist anthropological scholarship on state‐sanctioned gender violence. Through an in‐depth analysis of the challenges LaTasha faces in rebuilding relationships with family, navigating a system in which she has been outcasted, and asserting herself after being systematically disempowered, we gain insight into the ways in which carceral systems have prevented emotional complexity resulting in a form of incipient and largely invisible violence.

Social isolation and mental well-being among Korean older adults: a focus on living arrangements.

The aging population in South Korea, characterized by an increasing number of older adults living alone, has raised concerns about its implications on mental health, specifically social isolation and loneliness that accompanies solitary living arrangements. This study explores the impact of living arrangements on the mental well-being of Korean older adults by focusing on the prevalence of depression and the role of social isolation in the context of evolving family structures and the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional study analyzed the responses of older adults aged 65 years and above (mean: 73.1, SD: 5.1) by using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2018 and 2020. In total, responses from 3,365 older adults (1,653 in 2018 and 1,712 in 2020) were employed in this research. The participants' mental health status was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, with living arrangements categorized by household size. A zero-inflated Poisson regression analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between living arrangements and depression severity, controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors. The study found that older adults living with others exhibited a lower depression severity than those living alone. Notably, the severity of depression decreased as the number of household members increased up to a certain threshold. Socio-economic factors, such as income level, marital status, and psychological stress were also identified as significant predictors of depression severity. However, the COVID-19 pandemic did not have a statistically significant impact on depression rates among older adults during the study period. Living arrangements play a critical role in the mental health of Korean older adults, with solitary living being associated with higher levels of depression. These findings underscore the importance of social support systems and suggest the need for policies and interventions that promote social connectivity and address the challenges of loneliness faced by them. Future research should explore longitudinal and qualitative studies to further understand causal relationships and develop targeted interventions to improve the mental well-being of the aging population.

The relationship between marital status and cognitive impairment in Chinese older adults: the multiple mediating effects of social support and depression

BackgroundMarital status is a potentially essential factor for cognitive impairment. Relevant research examining the potential pathways through which the marital status of spouseless older people is associated with cognitive impairment needs to be more adequate. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the serial mediating effects of various forms of social support and depression between marital status and cognitive impairment in older Chinese people.MethodsThis study involved a secondary analysis of data from the 2014–2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), with a total of 2,647 Chinese older adults and 53.6% being males. Mediation analysis using the SPSS process macro was conducted.ResultsThe results indicated that marital status was significantly predictive of cognitive impairment among older people, and those with a spouse exhibited higher cognitive functioning. Informal social support and depression were found to play partial mediating roles in the association between marital status and cognitive impairment. The findings also revealed that marital status was unrelated to formal social support, and no association between formal social support and cognitive impairment was found.ConclusionsThe study findings highlight the need for social service providers to design programs for promoting connections associated with informal support to reduce their risk of depression and cognitive impairment and for policymakers to develop effective formal social support systems for older people without spouses. This study indicated that older people could regain the benefits of marriage to lower the risk of depression and improve their mental health.

IMPLEMENTASI DIORAMA 3D INTERAKTIF BERBASIS PILAR (Dio- 3D IBP) DALAM MENINGKATKAN SELF MANAGEMENT DAN BLOOD PRESSURE CONTROL PADA PENDERITA HIPERTENSI

Introduction & Aim: Hypertension is a chronic disease and is considered a global health problem that can cause complications, such as cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, dementia, and death from cardiovascular disease. Patients need a support system in managing their disease. One way to control blood pressure and prevent hypertension complications is to improve self-management. Community involvement is integrated in the program to have a social support system in carrying out self-management. The aim of this community service is to improve self-management and blood pressure control in hypertension sufferers. Method of Activity: Implementation of the Pillar-Based Interactive 3D Diorama (Dio-3D IBP) was carried out on 20 hypertensive respondents who had previously undergone examinations at the Surabaya regional health center. The community service lasted for four weeks in RW 07, Kapasan Village, Simokerto District, Surabaya. The activity stages are initial survey, implementation, education, mentoring and evaluation. Self management was measured using the Hypertension Self Management Behavior Questionnaire and blood pressure control was measured using a sphygmomanometer. Community service results are assessed by analyzing data using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test statistical test. Results: This community service can change people's behavior regarding self-management and blood pressure control. The results of the Wilcoxcon test are self-management p=0.001 and improvement in blood pressure with systole and diastole values p=0.00. Discussion: Implementation of a Pillar-Based Interactive 3D Diorama (Dio-3D IBP) can improve self-management and blood pressure control in hypertension sufferers. Health care workers should participate in health education programs to meet community needs and improve compliance with their treatment regimens.

Effect of Meta-Cognitive Strategy-Based Activities on Executive Functioning, Social Networking, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Among Women.

Background Aging has an impact on women's quality of life and is closely correlated with deteriorating social support systems and cognitive abilities. This project intends to improve women's performance, independence, and quality of life by using meta-cognitive strategy-based activities to improve executive functioning and their capacity to maintain social networks. The ultimate objective is to keep older women's cognitive abilities from declining and to give them more independence in carrying out essential everyday tasks. By enhancing their executive functioning skills, women will be better equipped to navigate daily challenges and maintain their autonomy. Additionally, the project aims to provide a supportive environment for older women to engage in social activities and strengthen their social connections, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and enriched quality of life. Aims and objectives The study aims to evaluate the impact of meta-cognitive strategy-based activities on executive functioning, social networking, and instrumental activities of daily living. This study is specifically for women. Materials and method This is aquasi-experimental designwith convenience sampling and selected samples(n=70), who were then splitinto two groups: an experimental group (n=35) and a control group (n=35) based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group received intervention based on meta-cognitive strategies through various activities, while the control group did not receive any specific intervention except health education. Pre- and post-tests were conducted to measure the changes. Executive functioning was assessed using the Brief Executive Function Assessment Tool (BEAT), social networking was assessed using the Lubben Social Networking Scale, and instrumental activities of daily living were assessed using the Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. The duration of the study was six months,three sessions per week, lasting 45 minutes to an hour each. The statistical analysis was done with significance at a 5% alpha level using IBM SPSS version 29.0 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). Results The pre-test and post-test data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann-Whitney test.Since the p-value of the experimental group was 0.00 for the Lubben Social Networking Scale, the BEAT, and the Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, the alternate hypothesis was accepted. Thus, the results showed significant improvement in executive functioning, social networking, and instrumental daily living activities in the experimental group compared to the control group. Conclusion The clinically significant finding of this study was that the participants were enthusiastic and motivated to engage in meta-cognitive strategy-based activities; furthermore, there was a significant improvement in the experimental group when compared with the control group in executive functioning and social networking abilities. This will enhance functions like instrumental activities of daily living and occupational performance. Meta-cognitive strategy-based activities appeared beneficial for improving the cognitive functions and quality of life of women. Although the findings from the studies arepositive for therapeutic and health benefits, more clinical trials are needed in order to prove the effect of meta-cognitive strategy-based activities as a therapeutic approach.

Mental Well-being and Self-efficacy Among Students in a Vocational & Technical College in Shaanxi Province, China

This study investigates the interconnected dynamics of mental well-being and self-efficacy among students enrolled at Shaanxi Vocational & Technical College in Shaanxi Province, China. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by students in vocational and technical education, the research adopts a qualitative approach, employing interviews with both students and teachers to gain comprehensive insights. The findings reveal that academic pressures significantly impact students' mental well-being, contributing to heightened stress and anxiety. Social support systems, particularly peer relationships, emerge as crucial in mitigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of fostering a supportive community. Moreover, self-efficacy is closely tied to practical experiences and skills development within the vocational education system. The study highlights the pivotal role of teachers in shaping students' self-confidence through encouragement and constructive feedback. Career aspirations are identified as influential in shaping self-efficacy, with students having clear goals expressing higher levels of confidence. Based on the findings, the study proposes recommendations to strengthen support systems, promote social support networks, provide teacher training, offer comprehensive career guidance, and enhance the curriculum to incorporate more practical experiences. The recommendations aim to create an environment conducive to the holistic development of students, preparing them for academic success and future careers. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and evaluation to ensure continuous improvement in support systems and educational practices. Implementing these recommendations can significantly contribute to the positive mental health and self-efficacy of students at Shaanxi Vocational & Technical College, ultimately enhancing their overall educational experience and future

The Impact of Social Support Systems on EFL Students Self-Directed Learning Skills

The Impact of Social Support Systems on EFL Students Self-Directed Learning Skills

Research on the Identification of Rural Revitalization Potential and Precise Financial Support in Poverty-Stricken Areas

Research on the Identification of Rural Revitalization Potential and Precise Financial Support in Poverty-Stricken Areas

CS=Me: Exploring Factors that Shape Black Women's CS Identity at the Intersections of Race and Gender

Improving equity and inclusion for underrepresented groups in the field of Computer Science (CS) has garnered much attention. In particular, there is a long-standing need for diversity efforts that center on the experiences of Black women, and specific actions to increase their representation—especially given the biases that they often encounter in the field. There is limited research concerning Black women in CS, specifically their conceptions of the field and their overarching CS identity development. More research in this area is especially important given the marginalization that Black women often experience at the intersections of their race and gender. Guided by a combination of critical theoretical lenses, this qualitative study examines Black women's conceptions of what it means to be a computer scientist and the degree to which those conceptions map onto how they see themselves in the field. Moreover, we explore experiences that help to bolster Black women's CS identity. The findings highlight key aspects of what it means to be a computer scientist for the Black women in this study—notably the ability to use computing to make societal contributions. Also, the results accentuate key nuances in the participants’ personal CS identification, particularly as it relates to the resilience required to overcome unique barriers that many Black women encounter when engaging within the field. Moreover, the findings highlight the importance of social support systems to facilitate Black women's CS identity development. Implications for policy and practice within education and industry are discussed.

The impact of a residential fire on occupational engagement and performance: A reflexive narrative approach

Residential fires are a devastating and stressful life event. The high number of residential fires per year and significant associated stressors impacts all aspects of daily life. This reflexive narrative approach highlights gaps in inpatient and outpatient burn care for those who have suffered a residential fire from an occupational therapy perspective. The findings show that healthcare professionals need to consider social support systems, use therapeutic listening, provide stress management techniques and be advocates throughout the recovery process.

Public Health Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Assisted Living Facilities in New York State: March 2020-December 2022.

Assisted living facility (ALF) residents are especially vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to the age and comorbidities of the resident population and the social nature of these facilities. To collate all New York State Department of Health guidance and regulations to control transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection within ALFs from March 2020 through December 2022 and to include US Food and Drug Administration COVID-19 testing and vaccine authorizations. A narrative chronological review of all New York State Department of Health guidance. Documents and associated guidance and regulations are divided into 4 sections: (1) lockdown until COVID-19 vaccine emergency use authorization; (2) COVID-19 vaccine authorization until phased reopening; (3) phased reopening, vaccination requirements, and booster vaccination; (4) the period of the bivalent booster. Controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 within ALFs required a multifactorial approach that included stringent infection control measures, testing, and vaccination and careful attention to the social structure and support systems within ALFs. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlighted the complexity of controlling spread of an easily transmissible respiratory pathogen in assisted living communities and the need to structure infection control programs within the diverse ALFs that provide care for our aging population.

Уязвимое детство в контексте детского благополучия

<p style="text-align: justify;">This study aims to clarify the concept of “vulnerable childhood” within the context of child well-being. In modern society, children are exposed to various risks that can negatively impact their physical, emotional, and social development. The article explores diverse aspects of children’s vulnerability, such as socio-economic inequalities, violations of children’s rights, adverse family conditions, and the impact of traumatic events. The authors employ an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses the analysis of sociological, psychological, economic, and legal aspects. The article provides an overview of existing research that emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors contributing towards children’s vulnerability, as well as the consequences it may have on their future well-being. Focusing on governmental and other programs aimed at enhancing child well-being, the authors offer recommendations to ensure the protection of vulnerable children. These include the implementation of inclusive educational programs, strengthening the family social support system, refining legislation concerning children’s rights, and creating effective mechanisms for responding to crisis situations. The article offers an analysis of the influence of the concept of a “vulnerable childhood” on children’s well-being, and presents specific steps for ensuring the protection and support of children at risk.</p>

"It made me feel like a shit parent": an intersectional analysis of pandemic mothering.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought to the fore the everyday and exceptional challenges for mothers. Rarely, however, did research or social commentary acknowledge the multiplicities of motherhood during this prolonged period of risk, disruption, and uncertainty. This paper draws upon interviews with 24 mothers living in Aotearoa New Zealand during the pandemic, including women who were pregnant and gave birth during lockdowns, teenage mothers, single and low-income mothers, and working mothers. The sample was intentionally diverse, including Māori, Pacific, Asian and migrant mothers. Engaging an intersectional lens on motherhood and women's health, this paper builds upon and extends feminist research on mothers' experiences during the pandemic, highlighting the many different challenges facing mothers of diverse social, cultural, and economic positionalities and during various stages of motherhood. Across the sample, we reveal the significant emotional toll on mothers, particularly with the absence of critical social, medical and health support systems during lockdown periods and sustained social restrictions. Many of the women described how the pandemic affected their feelings about motherhood, prompting new reflections on their relationships with the home, family, work, and broader society. Despite some similarities, the pandemic experiences of Māori, Pacific, migrant and single mothers were further intensified by various forms of isolation, judgement, and discrimination. In this way, the pandemic shed light on the gendering of everyday maternal life, but also the need for more intersectional culturally and gender-responsive policies that acknowledge the multi-layered complexities of mothers' lives.

Perceived social support and mental health outcomes among perinatally HIV positive children in Gondar healthcare centers, North-Western Ethiopia

ABSTRACT Children with chronic illness are found to be at greater risk for psychiatric problems, including depression, anxiety and feelings of isolation. Particularly, HIV positive children in underdeveloped nations are more likely experiencing psychological disorders and live with socially alienated social support systems. In present study, institution-based cross-sectional research design was employed to assess the prevalence of mental health distress among HIV positive children 115(F = 69) in Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select participants. Quantitative data were collected with standardized instruments. Nurse Counsellors and case managers from the children’s ART department participated in sample selection and data collection under the close supervision of a researcher. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyze the quantitative data. The key findings of this study revealed that 57.4% HIV positive children reported high level in measures of anxiety and 52.2% had high depression level, while 47.8% had low self-esteem. Children’s ages, parental conditions, and perceived social support shown significant association with participants’ mental health condition. Perceived social support was a powerful set of predictors of children level of anxiety F = 1, 113 24.526, p < .001 and self-esteem F = 1, 113 6.494, p < .0.05. Furthermore, children’s age was a strong predictor of mental health status. The present study finding asserted that HIV positive children require a lifetime of continuous treatment, care and support to ensure their physical and mental development. This study reminds families, caregivers and healthcare institutions of the development of appropriate prevention and intervention program to alleviate stressful life events and improve the psychological well-being of HIV positive children.