International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience

Journal Information
EISSN: 22921761
Total articles ≅ 46

Latest articles in this journal

Angela Wei, Marria Khalid, Erik Ge, Jiyeon Kang, Makaśa Looking Horse, Christine Wekerle
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.297

Abstract:
Objective: To explore literature regarding youth with Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), their potential reactivity to research, and research trauma mitigation protocols. Methods: A systematic scoping review was conducted in APA PsychInfo, CINAHL, Embase, and OVID Medline. 2 reviewers screened each article for 12 eligible studies. Quantitative and qualitative studies measuring maltreatment and trauma research responses were eligible. Youth were defined as individuals aged 10-19. Results: No study utilized the ACEs questionnaire with research-related stress measures. Among those that included research reactivity measures, various forms of childhood and youth victimization were considered. The majority of participants did not report feeling upset, with many reporting benefits to participation. Information on protocols for managing distress was available for 11 studies, the most common being the provision of a resource helpsheet and/or referral system. Implications: There is no indication of distress following ACEs-related research, with few studies measuring across the research experience. One study measured follow-up for distress and further action. Additional research may be indicated to assess the effectiveness of these protocols in this population with a follow-up assessment.
Rachel Langevin, Martine Hébert, Annie Bernier, Jean-Yves Frappier
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.311

Abstract:
Objectives: This prospective longitudinal study aimed to explore the role of family relationships (romantic satisfaction and mother-infant bonding) and psychological distress in the associations between four child maltreatment (CM) subtypes (sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, neglect) and early child abuse potential in young mothers.Methods: A sample of 85 pregnant mothers (18-29 years old) was recruited to complete an online survey at Time 1 (T1); 57 mothers participated at T2 (3 months postpartum). The survey documented experiences of CM, prenatal romantic satisfaction, postnatal psychological distress, mother-infant bonding, and child abuse potential using validated questionnaires.Results: Four sequential mediation models were tested, one for each CM subtype. Results show that a maternal history of CM (all subtypes) was indirectly associated with heightened child abuse potential three months postpartum. All CM subtypes were negatively related to prenatal romantic satisfaction, which was in turn negatively associated with postnatal psychological distress. Postnatal psychological distress was related to lower mother-infant bonding which, in turn, was related to increased child abuse potential. The complete sequential model was significant for physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, while a partial sequence was identified with neglect.Implications: Our results are consistent with theoretical models and empirical findings demonstrating the importance of relational factors and mental health in the intergenerational continuity of CM. While our findings await replication, they emphasize the need to intervene early - during the perinatal period - on mental health and family relationships to interrupt intergenerational cycles of CM in at-risk families.
Nicolas Berthelot, Christine Drouin-Maziade, Vanessa Bergeron, Julia Garon-Bissonnette, Thibaut Sériès
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.307

Abstract:
Contexte : La pandémie de COVID-19 a été associée à une augmentation de la détresse psychologique chez les femmes enceintes. Le présent article vise à évaluer l’acceptabilité du programme STEP-COVID (Soutenir la Transition et l’Engagement dans la Parentalité dans le contexte de la pandémie de COVID-19), une intervention prénatale de groupe en ligne, en mode synchrone, visant à soutenir le bien-être, la mentalisation et la résilience. Méthode : Vingt et une femmes enceintes québécoises ont participé au programme et ont complété des mesures des symptômes psychologiques et de la mentalisation avant et après l’intervention ainsi qu’une échelle évaluant leur perception de changements sur des domaines associés à la résilience. Après chaque rencontre, elles ont rempli un questionnaire évaluant leur appréciation du programme. Résultats : Les 18 participantes (86 %) ayant complété le programme ont rapporté de hauts taux de satisfaction après chacune des rencontres et au terme de l’intervention. Une diminution des symptômes anxio-dépressifs et des symptômes de stress post-traumatiques et une amélioration des fonctions réflexives sont observées entre le début et la fin du programme. Les participantes ont également rapporté des changements positifs sur des sphères de fonctionnement associées à la résilience. Conclusion : Les résultats soutiennent l’acceptabilité du programme STEP-COVID et suggèrent que l’offre d’une intervention de groupe brève en ligne est appréciée par les participantes, semble favoriser une diminution de la détresse psychologique et une amélioration de la mentalisation et pourrait contribuer à la résilience dans le contexte de la pandémie de COVID-19.
Karolina Huartson, Todd Hill, Teresa Killam, Martina Kelly, Nicole Racine
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.313

Abstract:
Objectives: To explore the barriers and facilitators from the perspective of family physicians on the implementation of a pilot trauma-informed care (TIC) initiative to promote resilience, with particular emphasis on asking about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), in a maternity care clinic.Methods: Using an exploratory qualitative design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with family physicians who were practicing in a maternity clinic in a large Canadian city. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were reviewed by three coders and themes were extracted using thematic analysis.Results: The analysis of 10 interviews yielded six thematic domains. Three domains pertained to perceived barriers to obtaining an ACEs history including: (1) concern about time management, (2) initial lack of physician comfort with TIC, and (3) cultural limitations of using the ACEs questionnaire. Three themes pertained to perceived facilitators of obtaining an ACEs history including: (1) the importance of a physician champion, (2) a supportive and flexible clinic environment, and (3) improved patient-physician relationships.Implications: In the context of a broader TIC initiative within a maternity care setting, asking patients about ACEs was generally perceived positively by physicians. Ensuring a supportive clinic environment and adequate staff training may be critical factors that contribute to successful implementation. Future research focused on diverse physician experiences in different settings are needed.
Tara Santavicca, Anabelle Vanier-Clément, Cécile Rousseau
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.309

Abstract:
Objectives: This article describes an intervention that took place in Québec, Canada, to mitigate COVID-19 vaccine tension in schools, exacerbated by the 12-17 years old vaccination campaign. Building on this initiative, it proposes guiding principles for prevention and intervention in conflict around COVID-19 vaccination in and around schools. Intervention: Three complementary tools were developed by a community program, CoVivre, in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team, to help practitioners and parents understand vaccine tensions and their impact on youth, and to suggest simple ways to prevent and intervene in vaccine related conflicts. Recommendations: A thorough research evaluation could not be performed due to the rapid crisis response; however, the tools received positive feedback by practitioners, institutions, and decision makers. Recommendations were structured around the following principles: (a) fostering transparent and nuanced health communications; (b) avoiding confrontation and refusing to escalate while strongly condemning criminal acts; (c) encouraging open dialogue; and (d) preserving relationships. Implications: Mental health consequences of public health interventions should be considered at inception to avoid collateral damages. Removing children from the heart of societal conflict and maintaining the family-school relationship is crucial to child development. It is imperative to engage interdisciplinary teams to protect youth from societal polarization, and provide an opportunity for growth and resilience. This initiative suggests that more research is needed on the impacts of encouraging an open dialogue around vaccination, and adopting an empathetic approach amongst youth towards others who may not share the same opinion.
Nikki Wong, Katherine Kim, Peri (Pei Rui) Ren, Wai Sun Liu, Sehyun Shannon Oh, Noelle Strickland, Sherry Stewart, Christine Wekerle
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.303

Abstract:
Objective: Focusing on youth (ages 15-24), our scoping review aims to address these questions: (1) What is the relationship between self-compassion (SC) and psychological distress in youths with child maltreatment (CM) histories? and (2) How does this relationship differ across child maltreatment types?Methods: Eight databases were screened: OVID MEDLINE, OVID PsychInfo, PsycARTICLES, ProQuest Sociological Abstracts, ProQuest ERIC, OVID Embase, CINAHL, and PUBMED. Our search strategy and inclusion/exclusion criteria yielded an initial 4143 studies. With 1365 duplicates removed, 2778 titles and abstracts were screened. 17 studies were included for full-text screening, and seven studies were selected for data extraction and final inclusion.Results: SC was found to moderate and mediate the relationships between CM and psychological distress. The role of fear of SC was also investigated and found to function as a mediator between CM and PTSD symptom severity. Regarding CM types, emotional abuse was found to significantly predict SC levels in a child welfare population.Implications: Given the significance of SC and fear of SC in the relationship between CM and psychological distress, implementation of SC into clinical practice should be considered. Recommendations are made to expand research into more diverse populations, such as child welfare and/or Indigenous youth.
Megan Mueller, Louis Schmidt, Stephanie Wright, Insia Ali Raza, Gabriella Patro, Mehwish Rana, Richard Volpe
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.301

Abstract:
Objectives: To gain a better understanding of the emotional and mental experiences of child and adolescent athletes following a sport-related concussion, in order to better support these athletes throughout recovery. Methods: Adolescents (n=21) ages 15-24 years who self-reported experiencing a sport-related concussion under the age of 18, participated in a retrospective, single group, qualitative analysis based on semi-structured interviews. Thematic Content Analysis was used to identify themes amongst participants’ responses. Results: The results indicated three overarching domains with underlying themes and subthemes within: (1) Acute Challenges Post-Concussion (i.e., difficulty accepting unknowns, self-image and mattering, school, missing out and isolation, feelings of hopelessness), (2) Coping with Acute Challenges Post-Concussion (i.e., support, previous concussions, prioritizing mental health), and (3) Take-Aways Post-Concussion (i.e., learning about injury, self-growth, long lasting impacts on overall health). Conclusion: Child and adolescent athletes face numerous emotional challenges post-concussion and following recovery; however, there are many ways in which children are resilient and cope with these challenges. Implications: It is critical that the knowledge of child and adolescent athletes’ challenges post-concussion, as well as the successful coping mechanisms and protective factors utilized throughout recovery are used to develop better preventative and interventive strategies, in order to support the athletes’ well-being post-concussion.
Elisa Romano, Lauren Stenason
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.293

Abstract:
Objectives: Resource parents are critical to young people’s well-being, resilient functioning, and placement stability. However, child welfare often experiences challenges in retaining resource parents, which may be partially due to the limited availability of in-service resources. We describe two in-service training initiatives for resource parents in Ontario (Canada) that can support their important caregiving work. We also present preliminary mixed-methods findings on training reactions and learning.Methods: The first study sampled 91 resource parents who completed the Resource Parent Curriculum (RPC) and collected module evaluations as well as post-program satisfaction data. The second study collected post-training evaluations from 26 resource parents who completed training using the Assessment and Action Record (AAR) to better understand youth in-care.Results: Resource parents responded positively to the RPC content and delivery; they appreciated the online format (due to COVID-19 restrictions). Parents noted it was helpful to learn how trauma shapes young people’s expectations and how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. For the second study, parents’ overall training rating was positive. They noted it was helpful to learn how different perspectives could be integrated through AAR findings and highlighted the importance of collaboration with child welfare workers. The training initiatives were well-received and attested to resource parents’ motivation to keep improving their parenting practices. Findings indicated gains in knowledge around trauma-informed parenting and indicated the value of data to support young people’s well-being.Implications: Retention will likely improve when resource parents feel supported and capable of handling young people’s complex needs. To improve outcomes for both youth in-care and resource parents, it seems important to make training and support available on a regular and ongoing basis and in a collaborative way with child welfare partners.
Carley Marshall, Rachel Langevin, Sarah Cabecinha-Alati
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 9; https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.283

Abstract:
Objectives: Child maltreatment is a serious problem worldwide associated with numerous developmental and psychological problems that can impede children’s short and long-term functioning. The negative effects of maltreatment may put children on a trajectory where they are likely to experience later abuse and even abuse their own children. While studies have focused primarily on the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment (victim-to-perpetrator cycles), there are studies, albeit fewer, documenting cycles of intergenerational continuity of maltreatment (victim-to-victim cycles; e.g., child sexual abuse). Clear theoretical frameworks are lacking from studies on intergenerational maltreatment. This review aimed to systematically identify theories, theoretical or conceptual frameworks that have been used to explain the victim-to-victim cycles of maltreatment.Methods: Searches were executed in PsychINFO, Medline, and Scopus. Fifteen papers were included in this review.Results: The most common theories used to explain the intergenerational continuity of maltreatment victimization were attachment theory and traumatic stress models. Other identified theories include those from social, developmental, and biological domains. Notably, there were only five papers on the intergenerational continuity of child sexual abuse, highlighting a lack of focus on the theoretical explanations of this issue. Based on the findings, a unified model of victim-to-victim cycles of maltreatment is proposed to guide future studies.Implications: Future research in this area could include testing and comparing theoretical explanations and advancing the current state of the literature by using qualitative and mixed methods.
International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, Volume 8, pp 1-14; https://doi.org/10.7202/1082070ar

Abstract:
Objectives: The study aims to further the understanding of child welfare involvement with Newcomer families in Ontario, Canada in 2018. This study examines a) the rate and characteristics of child maltreatment-related investigations involving Newcomer families and b) differences in child maltreatment-related investigations between Newcomer and non-Newcomer families. Methods: This study is a secondary data analysis of the Ontario Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect-2018 (OIS-2018). Using Statistics Canada Census Data, the Population-based Disparity Index (PDI) was calculated for Newcomer and non-Newcomer families. Descriptive and bivariate chi-square analyses were conducted to determine characteristics of investigations involving Newcomer and non-Newcomer households. Results: The PDI of the incidence of maltreatment-related investigations involving children under the age of 15 from Newcomer households versus non-Newcomer households in Ontario in 2018 is 2.48. Implications: The findings suggest that a child maltreatment-related investigation is more than twice as likely to occur if the investigation involves a child from a Newcomer household, when compared a non-Newcomer household in Ontario. This study demonstrates a need for further collaboration with Newcomer communities and their social service providers to better understand risk factors of child welfare involvement, and to increase protective factors for children from Newcomer families.
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