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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Public Health and Health Services | Community Child Health | Sociology | Social Change | Family And Household Studies | Social Policy And Planning | Family Law | Developmental Psychology And Ageing | Social And Community Psychology | Industrial and organisational psychology (incl. human factors) | Early Childhood Education (excl. Māori) | Education Studies Not Elsewhere Classified | Developmental Psychology and Ageing | Law | Health Promotion | Social Policy | Specialist Studies in Education | Social Work | Gender relations | Health Promotion | Family and household studies | Special Education | Counselling, Welfare And Community Services | Demography | Social Program Evaluation
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Families | Changing work patterns | Youth/child development and welfare | Social structure and health | Social Structure and Health | Special education | Health education and promotion | Primary education | Early childhood education | Justice and the law not elsewhere classified | Families and Family Services | Social Class and Inequalities | Health Inequalities |
Related Links
Publications
“It’s not black and white”
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 04-02-2019
DOI: 10.1108/INTR-07-2017-0278
Abstract: The internet offers an opportunity for researchers to engage participants in research in a cost-effective and timely manner. Yet the use of the internet as a research tool (internet research) comes with a range of ethical concerns, and the rapidly changing online environment poses challenges for both researchers and ethics committees. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the key ethical issues of using the internet to recruit, retain and trace participants in public health research, from the perspectives of researchers and human research ethics committee (HREC) members. This study employed a qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with eight public health researchers and seven HREC members in Australia to explore the key ethical issues of using the internet to engage research participants. The study identified commonalities between researchers and HREC members regarding the utility and ethical complexity of using the internet to recruit, retain and trace research participants. The need for guidance and support regarding internet research, for both groups, was highlighted, as well as the need for flexibility and responsiveness in formal ethical processes. This research contributes to the understanding of how the internet is used to engage participants in public health research and the ethical context in which that occurs. Supporting the ethical conduct of internet research will benefit those involved in research, including researchers, HRECs, organisations and research participants.
Obesogenic eating behaviors mediate the relationships between psychological problems and BMI in children
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-03-2017
DOI: 10.1002/OBY.21823
Victorian maternal and child health nurses’ family violence practices and training needs: a cross-sectional analysis of routine data
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1071/PY20043
Abstract: This study investigated maternal and child health (MCH) nurse family violence clinical practices, practice gaps and future family violence training needs. Descriptive analysis was conducted of routine data collected as part of a larger MCH nurse family violence training project conducted in 2018. A purposive s le of routine data (2017–18) was analysed from six Victorian metropolitan and four regional and rural areas that were experiencing high rates of violence, as indicated by police reports. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to identify rates of nurse family violence screening, safety planning and referral, with practice differences analysed across locations. MCH nurses ask only one in two clients about family violence at the mandated 4-week postnatal clinic visit. Overall, metropolitan nurses screen for family violence at higher rates than rural nurses. Safety planning rates were low (1.3%), suggesting that screening is not translating to disclosure rates equivalent to state-wide prevalence (~14–17%) or police data. Nurse referrals are even lower (& %), with practice differences noted across reporting systems. Despite data collection limitations, analysis of routine data shows significant gaps in nurse family violence screening and response practices. This evidence reinforces the need for systems changes to address family violence and other maternal health and social issues.
Impact of music therapy to promote positive parenting and child development
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2008
Abstract: The effectiveness of a 10-week group music therapy program for marginalized parents and their children aged 0—5 years was examined. Musical activities were used to promote positive parent—child relationships and children's behavioral, communicative and social development. Participants were 358 parents and children from families facing social disadvantage, young parents or parents of a child with a disability. Significant improvements were found for therapist-observed parent and child behaviors, and parent-reported irritable parenting, educational activities in the home, parent mental health and child communication and social play skills. This study provides evidence of the potential effectiveness of music therapy for early intervention.
Health-care costs of underweight, overweight and obesity: Australian population-based study
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2015
DOI: 10.1111/JPC.12932
Feasibility and acceptability of an online acceptance and commitment therapy group for parents caring for a child with cerebral palsy
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-10-2020
The cost of healthcare for children with mental health difficulties
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-05-2013
Abstract: Childhood mental health difficulties affect one in every seven children in Australia, posing a potential financial burden to society. This paper reports on the early lifetime in idual and population non-hospital healthcare costs to the Australian Federal Government for children experiencing mental health difficulties. It also reports on the use and cost of particular categories of service use, including the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) mental health items introduced in 2006. Data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) were used to calculate total Medicare costs (government subsidised healthcare attendances and prescription medications) from birth to the 8th birthday associated with childhood mental health difficulties measured to 8–9 years of age. Costs were higher among children with mental health difficulties than those without difficulties. While in idual costs increased with the persistence of difficulties, population-level costs were highest for those with transient mental health difficulties. Although attenuated, these patterns persisted after child, parent and family characteristics were taken into account. Use of the MBS-reimbursed mental health services among children with a mental health difficulty was very low (around 2%). Australian healthcare costs for young children with mental health difficulties are substantial and provide further justification for early intervention and prevention. The current provision of Medicare-rebated mental health services does not appear to be reaching young children with mental health difficulties.
Using Paid and Free Facebook Methods to Recruit Australian Parents to an Online Survey: An Evaluation
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-03-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11206
Establishing Agreement between Parent-reported and Directly-measured Behaviours
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2017
Abstract: THE QUALITY AND ACCURACY OF research findings relies on the use of appropriate and sensitive research methods. To date, few studies have directly compared quantitative measurement methods in the early childhood field and the extent to which parent-reported and directly-measured behaviours agree is unclear. Existing studies are h ered by small s le sizes and the use of statistical techniques which quantify the magnitude of association between measures (e.g. correlations), but not agreement. Here we review the limitations of existing method comparisons and suggest how alternative statistical approaches such as the Bland-Altman Method and ordinary least products regression can be readily applied in the early childhood context. Understanding agreement (and disagreement) between measurement methods has potential to reduce research costs and improve data quality, with important implications for researchers, clinicians and policy-makers.
Psychosocial, Demographic, and Illness‐Related Factors Associated With Acute Traumatic Stress Responses in Parents of Children With a Serious Illness or Injury
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1002/JTS.22193
Abstract: This study investigated factors associated with acute stress symptoms in parents of seriously ill children across a range of illnesses and treatment settings within a pediatric hospital setting. It was hypothesized that psychosocial variables would be more strongly associated with acute stress responses than demographic and child illness variables. Participants were 115 mothers and 56 fathers of children treated within the oncology, cardiology, and intensive care departments of a pediatric hospital. Acute stress, psychosocial, demographic, and medical data were collected within the first 4 weeks of the child's hospital admission. A robust hierarchical regression model revealed that psychosocial factors significantly explained 36.8% of the variance in parent acute stress responses (p < .001) demographic variables significantly added a further 4.5% (p = .022), but illness-related factors did not contribute to the model. Findings support the implementation of a general psychosocial screening approach for parents across the wider hospital system, and that psychosocial risk factors may be targeted in interventions across different illnesses and treatment settings to improve parent outcomes.
Sexual Abuse Prevention Education in Australian Primary Schools: A National Survey of Programs
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-09-2019
Abstract: In the 2017 final report of the Australia’s Royal Commission Into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, recommendations noted the importance of school-based prevention efforts to create child-safe communities. In this study, we report on a national evaluation of the nature and availability of child sexual abuse prevention programs delivered in Australian primary schools. A survey instrument, anchored in empirical evidence, was distributed to all providers of child sexual abuse prevention programs in Australian primary schools serving children aged 4 to 13 years. Respondents were program coordinators or facilitators who provided data on 35 school-based child sexual abuse prevention programs that reached 631,720 children (approximately 26% of the Australian primary school student population) in 1 year. On average, each program reached 18,049 children in a calendar year (ranging from 200 to 80,000 children). Median child age for program exposure was 8 years. However, program duration was poorly reported so it was difficult to establish what program dosage was received. Most programs (80%-94%) covered specific item content, “always or often,” for 13 important areas of content, including five of seven items that had the strongest evidence of effectiveness, derived from a recent Cochrane Review (e.g., distinguishing appropriate and inappropriate touching). Programs less frequently addressed such content as safety in using technology and perpetrator strategies (e.g., grooming). The findings provide important information about the scope and nature of child sexual abuse prevention programs, and baseline data against which future program advancements can be tracked.
Trajectories of fathers’ psychological distress across the early parenting period: Implications for parenting.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 10-2015
DOI: 10.1037/FAM0000109
Abstract: Fathers' parenting behavior is a likely key mechanism underlying the consistent associations between paternal mental health difficulties and poor emotional-behavioral outcomes for children. This study investigates the association between fathers' mental health trajectories and key parenting behaviors (warmth, hostility, consistency) spanning the first 8-9 years postpartum. Secondary analyses of 5 waves of data from 2,662 fathers participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were conducted. Latent growth class analysis was used to identify distinct trajectories of fathers' distress (Kessler-6 Kessler et al., 2003), and latent growth models estimated parenting warmth, hostility, and consistency. Multiple group analyses were conducted to describe and compare the course of parenting behaviors for fathers assigned to the distress trajectories identified. Two distinct classes of fathers were identified based on the trajectories of distress: minimal distress (92%) and persistent and increasing distress (8%). The latter group reported significantly lower parenting warmth when their children were 8-9 years and lower consistency and higher hostility across all study intervals. The postnatal and early parenting period is a critical time for the development of parenting behaviors that are important for children's development. Engagement and support for fathers around well-being and parenting is vital for promoting optimal family and child developmental outcomes.
Selective attrition in longitudinal studies: effective processes for Facebook tracing
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-05-2020
Teachers' knowledge of children's exposure to family risk factors: accuracy and usefulness
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2005
Fathers’ Postnatal Mental Health and Child Well-Being at Age Five
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 25-02-2013
Abstract: Fathers’ postnatal mental health is associated with emotional and behavioral outcomes for children in early childhood. The aim of this study was to examine whether parenting behavior mediated the relationship between fathers’ postnatal psychological distress and emotional–behavioral outcomes for children at age 5. The s le consisted of 2,025 fathers participating in Growing Up In Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Data collected when the children were aged 0 to 12 months and 4 to 5 years were used. Results revealed that the relationship between fathers’ postnatal distress and children’s outcomes was mediated by parenting hostility (angry and frustrated reactions toward the child such as yelling), and this remained significant after controlling for fathers’ concurrent mental health and mothers’ postnatal mental health. These findings underscore the important contribution of fathers’ postnatal mental health to later parenting behavior and child outcomes. Implications for policy and practice focused on improving mental health and parenting support to fathers in the early childhood period is discussed.
The maternal health study: Study design update for a prospective cohort of first‐time mothers and their firstborn children from birth to age ten
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/PPE.12757
Abstract: Maternal health is critical to the health and well‐being of children and families, but is rarely the primary focus of pregnancy and birth cohort studies. Globally, poor maternal health and the exposure of women and children to family violence contribute to the perpetuation and persistence of intergenerational health inequalities. The Maternal Health Study was designed to investigate the contribution of social and obstetric risk factors to common maternal physical and psychological morbidities. Over time, our focus has expanded to include mother‐child pairs and investigation of intergenerational trauma and family violence. A total of 1507 first‐time mothers were recruited in early pregnancy from six public hospitals in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003‐2005. Women completed questionnaires or telephone interviews in early pregnancy (≤24 weeks) at 32 weeks’ gestation at three, six, nine, 12 and 18 months postpartum and at four and ten years. At ten years, women and children were invited to participate in face‐to‐face interviews, which included direct assessment of children's cognitive and language development. A wide range of obstetric, social and contextual factors have been measured, including exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) (1‐year, 4‐year and 10‐year follow‐up). 1507 eligible women were recruited at a mean gestation of 15 weeks. At one year, four years and ten years postpartum, 90.0%, 73.1% and 63.2% of the original cohort took part in follow‐up. One in three women in the study (34.5%) reported exposure to IPV in the first ten years of motherhood: 19% in the first 12 months postpartum, 20% in the year prior to four‐year follow‐up and 18.3% in the year prior to ten‐year follow‐up. The study affords a unique opportunity to examine patterns of maternal and child health and health service use associated with exposure to IPV.
Development of mental health problems and overweight between ages 4 and 11 years: a population-based longitudinal study of Australian children.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACAP.2012.12.001
Abstract: To investigate timing and strength of associations between mental health and overweight in childhood to investigate how the cumulative burden of each of these problems affects the other. Participants were 3197 children in the population-based Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. At 4 biennial waves spanning ages 4-5 to 10-11 years, parents and teachers reported child mental health on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and researchers measured body mass index (BMI). Outcomes were analyzed both continuously and dichotomized (clinical vs no mental health problems overweight vs not overweight). Approximately 30% of participants had overweight and/or mental health problems at some point between ages 4-5 and 10-11 years. Small positive cross-sectional mental health-BMI associations emerged at 8-9 years and strengthened by 10-11 years. In longitudinal analyses, more episodes of overweight predicted higher Total Difficulties scores by 10-11 years, mainly reflecting greater Peer Problems and, to a lesser degree, Emotional Symptoms than never-overweight children though modest, these associations were robust to a range of sensitivity analyses. In post hoc analyses, overweight in late childhood was more strongly associated with poorer mental health at 10-11 years than early and fluctuating childhood overweight. Associations were smaller and less robust for mental health problems prospectively predicting higher BMI. Relationships between poorer mental health and higher BMI emerged then strengthened in middle to late childhood. In childhood, it appears that overweight precedes mental health problems, particularly peer problems and-on a lower level-emotional problems, rather than the reverse.
Place-based approaches to improve health and development outcomes in young children: A scoping review
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 23-12-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0261643
Abstract: This scoping review examines the strength of evidence for the effectiveness of public policy-led place-based initiatives designed to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children, their families and the communities in which they live. Study designs and methods for evaluating such place-based initiatives were assessed, along with the contexts in which initiatives were implemented and evaluated. Thirty-two reports relating to 12 initiatives were included. Eleven initiatives used a quasi-experimental evaluation to assess impact, although there were considerable design variations within this. The remaining initiative used a pre- and post- evaluation design. Place-based initiatives by definition aim to improve multiple and interrelated outcomes. We examined initiatives to determine what outcomes were measured and coded them within the five domains of pregnancy and birth, child, parent, family and community. Across the 83 outcomes reported in the 11 studies with a comparison group, 30 (36.4%) demonstrated a positive outcome, and all but one initiative demonstrated a positive outcome in at least one outcome measure. Of the six studies that examined outcomes more than once post baseline, 10 from 38 outcomes (26.3%) demonstrated positive sustained results. Many initiatives were affected by external factors such as policy and funding changes, with unknown impact on their effectiveness. Despite the growth of place-based initiatives to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children, the evidence for their effectiveness remains inconclusive.
The Role of Practitioner Self-Efficacy, Training, Program and Workplace Factors on the Implementation of an Evidence-Based Parenting Intervention in Primary Care
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-03-2011
DOI: 10.1007/S10935-011-0240-1
Abstract: This study examines factors affecting the implementation by primary care practitioners (nursing, education, allied health, and medical) of a brief parenting and family support intervention (the Primary Care Triple P-Positive Parenting Program) following professional training. It assesses the impact of prior experience, self-efficacy, program supports, program barriers, satisfaction with training, and workplace characteristics on reported extent of program use. The majority of practitioners (97%) reported using Triple P following training. Implementation was assessed as the proportion of cases seen who received the full program. Program supports (quality of format and materials) and barriers (management difficulties and lack of fit) impacted on practitioner self-efficacy, and higher self-efficacy was positively associated with implementation. Prior professional experience, satisfaction with training, and workplace factors were not significant predictors. These results highlight the importance of promoting practitioners' sense of competence or mastery of a program for facilitating the implementation of evidence-based programs in primary care settings.
The Development and Validation of Australian Indices of Child Development—Part I: Conceptualisation and Development
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-01-2010
Teachers' reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect: behaviour and determinants
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 22-10-2007
DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYN030
Abstract: By reporting suspected child abuse and neglect, teachers can make an important contribution to the early detection and prevention of abuse. However, teachers are sometimes reluctant to report their suspicions. This study investigated the determinants of teachers' reporting behaviour using concepts from the Integrated Change Model. Self-report data were collected from 296 teachers employed in 15 Australian schools. Compared to their colleagues, teachers who had never suspected child abuse or neglect (non-detectors, N=57, 19%) were more likely to have a lower confidence in their skills for recognising the signs of abuse, a higher degree of perceived social support regarding reporting, less years teaching experience and lower academic qualifications. Among those who had suspected cases of child abuse or neglect (N=239, 81%), teachers who always reported their suspicions (consistent reporters, 82%) were more likely to have firm action plans about reporting and detecting signs of CAN than teachers who did not always report their suspicions (inconsistent reporters, 18%). While only a small proportion of the variance in detection and reporting status was explained, the results illustrate the utility of health promotion theory and methods for improving our understanding of these behaviours.
Functional Status in Children With ADHD at Age 6–8: A Controlled Community Study
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 10-2014
Abstract: To examine the functional status (mental health, academic performance, peer problems) of a community-based s le of children who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and non-ADHD controls, and to investigate gender and subtype differences. Children aged 6 to 8 years were recruited through 43 Melbourne schools, using a 2-stage screening (parent and teacher Conners 3 ADHD index) and case confirmation (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Version IV [DISC-IV]) procedure. Outcome measures were mental health disorders (DISC-IV), academic performance (Wide Range Achievement Test 4), and peer problems (Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire). Unadjusted and adjusted linear and logistic regression were used to compare ADHD and non-ADHD controls. A total of 179 children who have ADHD and 212 non-ADHD controls were recruited. Compared with controls, children who had ADHD had higher odds of externalizing (odds ratio [OR], 11.0 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.6–21.6 P & .001) and internalizing (OR, 2.9 95% CI, 1.2–7.2 P = .02) disorders poorer reading (effect size, −0.66) and mathematics (effect size, −0.69) performance and more peer problems (P & .001). Boys and girls who had ADHD were equally impaired. Only 17% of children in our ADHD group had been previously diagnosed. Previous diagnosis was higher in the Combined group and for boys. In their second year of school, children who had ADHD performed worse than controls across all functional domains, yet only a minority had been formally diagnosed with ADHD. Findings highlight the need for earlier diagnosis and intervention.
Working with families: A systematic scoping review of family-centred care in universal, community-based maternal, child, and family health services
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 30-06-2020
Abstract: Children’s long- and short-term health and developmental outcomes can be improved when families are engaged and supported, and inform care planning. Family-centred care (FCC) underpins policy directions for universal, community-based, child and family health services in the early years, although its implementation in this context is poorly understood. This systematic scoping review of the current literature aimed to improve understanding of FCC implementation in maternal, child, and family health universal services. Key databases and grey literature were searched using descriptors of maternal, child, and family health population and context, and FCC concept. Reference checking identified further literature for analysis. Thirteen included papers reported on nine studies from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Limited participant representation of fathers and erse community members was evident. Deductive thematic analysis identified four areas of FCC demonstrated in this literature: respectful relationships, effective communication to foster shared understanding, flexible and contextualized care, and support for autonomy and agency. The literature demonstrated the interplay between organizational, professional, and recipient factors and their impact on the implementation of FCC. For successful FCC implementation, all these elements should be considered.
Enhancing the early home learning environment through a brief group parenting intervention: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-06-2016
Primary healthcare costs associated with sleep problems up to age 7 years: Australian population-based study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2013
Maternal postnatal mental health and later emotional–behavioural development of children: the mediating role of parenting behaviour
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-01-2013
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12028
Abstract: Maternal postnatal mental health difficulties have been associated with poor outcomes for children. One mechanism by which parent mental health can impact on children's outcomes is via its effects on parenting behaviour. The longitudinal relationships between maternal postnatal distress, parenting warmth, hostility and child well-being at age seven were examined for 2200 families participating in a population-based longitudinal study of Australian children. The relationship between postnatal distress and children's later emotional-behavioural development was mediated by parenting hostility, but not parenting warmth, even after accounting for concurrent maternal mental health. Postnatal distress was more strongly associated with lower parenting warmth for mothers without a past history of depression compared with mothers with a past history of depression. These findings underscore the contribution of early maternal well-being to later parenting and child outcomes, highlighting the importance of mental health and parenting support in the early parenting years. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Mental health in the workplace: Using the ICF to model the prospective associations between symptoms, activities, participation and environmental factors
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1080/09638280701654690
Abstract: This prospective study used the framework of ICF components to investigate the magnitude and direction of association between body functions (depression/anxiety symptoms), activity (limitations in work activities), participation (sickness absence), and environment (psychosocial aspects) in the workplace setting. A cohort of employees completed a self-report survey at baseline and 6 months follow-up, with analysis restricted to those with at least one health condition (n = 204). Self-report measures of depression/anxiety symptoms, limitations in work activities, sickness absences, and psychosocial work environment were mapped to the corresponding ICF component. The prospective association between these components was modelled using relative risks (RR) estimated from log-binomial regression. Depression/anxiety symptoms were more likely to be an outcome of other ICF components, rather than a risk factor. Sickness absence, limitations in work activities, and work environment all conferred a greater than two-fold risk of depression/anxiety symptoms 6 months later. The ICF offers a valuable approach to understanding the contextual influences on employee mental health and work disability. Further application of the ICF framework to mental health should improve the environmental components and encourage a wider adoption of the ICF by mental health researchers and practitioners.
Psychological trajectories of mothers and fathers following their child's diagnosis of a life‐threatening illness or injury: A longitudinal investigation
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-06-2019
DOI: 10.1002/JCLP.22829
Abstract: Explore the mental health trajectories of parents following their child's life-threatening illness/injury. Participants were 217 parents (mean age: 34.9-40.0 66 fathers) of 165 children who presented to a tertiary hospital with a life-threatening illness/injury. Parents completed questionnaires about their mental health and psychosocial stressors within 4 weeks of the child's illness/injury (T1), and 4 months (T2), 7 months (T3), and 19 months (T4) postdiagnosis. For both mothers and fathers, mental health symptoms were elevated at diagnosis declining to normal levels by T3, with a pattern of increase at T4. Fathers demonstrated a faster decline in symptoms between T1 and T2, and fathers, but not mothers, experienced a relapse in depressive symptoms at T4. Fathers reported higher rates of work changes. These findings have important implications for the design and timing of parental interventions to support families of children with life-threatening disease/injury.
Working out dads (WOD): a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial of a group-based peer support intervention for men experiencing mental health difficulties in early fatherhood
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-02-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12888-022-03698-5
Abstract: Approximately one in ten men experience mental health difficulties during the early years of fatherhood, and these can have negative impacts on children and families. However, few evidence-based interventions targeting fathers’ mental health are available. The aim of the trial is to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Working Out Dads (WOD) – a facilitated peer support group intervention for fathers of young children, in reducing psychological distress and other mental health symptoms. This trial will employ a parallel-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of WOD peer support group intervention compared to usual care (a 30-min mental health and service focused phone consultation with a health professional). A total of 280 fathers of young children (aged 0-4 years) who are experiencing mental health difficulties and/or are at risk of poor mental health will be recruited. Randomisation and analyses will be at the level of the in idual participant. The primary outcome is psychological distress symptoms, measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) from baseline to 24 weeks post randomisation. A range of secondary outcomes will be assessed including suicidal ideation mental health disorders, specific symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress social support, quality of life, health service use, and health care costs. Data will be collected at baseline, 10- and 24 weeks post-randomisation. This trial will examine the effectiveness of a novel group-based peer support intervention in reducing the psychological distress and other mental health symptoms of fathers compared to usual care. The economic and process evaluation will guide policy decision making along with informing the future implementation of WOD on a larger scale if effectiveness is demonstrated. The current trial has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration ID - NCT04813042 ). Date of Registration: March 22nd, 2021.
Repeated early-life exposure to inter-parental conflict increases risk of preadolescent mental health problems
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-12-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00431-017-3071-0
Abstract: This study investigated the association between inter-parental conflict at a single occasion, or repeated over early childhood, and children's internalizing and externalizing problems at 10-11 years and examined potential mechanisms via social risk, maternal mental health, and parenting. Data were five time points from the Baby cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (N = 3696, recruited in 2004). Verbal or physical inter-parental conflict was measured at 0-1, 2-3, 4-5, and 6-7 years. Internalizing and externalizing problems (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) were measured via mother-, father-, teacher-, and child-report at 10-11 years. A series of regression models accounted for social risk at 0-1 years, parenting, and maternal psychological distress at 8-9 years. Physical and verbal inter-parental conflict (reported by 16 and 33% of mothers, respectively) consistently predicted mother-, father-, and child-reported externalizing and internalizing problems, and teacher-reported externalizing (but not internalizing) problems (adjusted regression coefficients [β] = 0.4-1.1). Repeated compared to single report of verbal conflict was associated with more behavior problems (adjusted mean = 0.8-1.1 compared to 0.4-0.6). Children are sensitive to inter-parental conflict, with long-term negative effects for child mental health even when reported at one time point within the first 6 years of life. What is Known: • Studies of children born prior to 1990 show that children exposed to verbal conflict or severe forms of family violence are at greater risk of mental health problems. What is New: • Physical and verbal inter-parental conflict reported once or at multiple time points over the first 6 years of life was associated with externalizing and internalizing problems reported by mothers, fathers, children, and teachers. • Associations between inter-parental conflict and child problems were not explained by family social risk, maternal mental health, or parenting.
Parent distress reactions following a serious illness or injury in their child: a protocol paper for the take a breath cohort study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-07-2015
Child sexual abuse prevention education: A review of school policy and curriculum provision in Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2013
Participation of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in a parent support programme: longitudinal associations between playgroup attendance and child, parent and community outcomes
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-10-2017
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12417
Abstract: Playgroups are a relatively unique form of family support programme that is common in Australia which has high community acceptance and significant government investment. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of playgroups to achieve better outcomes for children and their parents. This study describes patterns of playgroup participation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families with young children and examines the extent to which participation from birth to three years is associated with subsequent child, parent and community outcomes. This study uses three years of longitudinal data for 622 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were participants in the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC). Longitudinal associations between playgroup attendance when children were age 2 and 3 years and outcome measures for child vocabulary, motor skills, behaviour problems, prosocial development, parent home learning engagement, resilience, advice-seeking and health service use, and community trustworthiness were examined using path analysis. Rates of playgroup participation in this s le group were generally lower than for Australian children overall. Playgroup attendance when children were age 2 to 3 years was associated with higher parental engagement in home learning activities when children were aged 4 years which, in turn, was associated with stronger expressive vocabulary scores for children. The findings from this study suggest that playgroup participation can enhance the home learning environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Playgroups as a parent support programme hold strong potential to reach and engage families, particularly in areas of high geographic isolation, which can realize improved outcomes for children, parents and communities.
Do working mothers raise couch potato kids? Maternal employment and children's lifestyle behaviours and weight in early childhood
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.01.040
Abstract: Alarm about the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity has focussed attention on in idual lifestyle behaviours that may contribute to unhealthy weight. More distal predictors such as maternal employment may also be implicated since working mothers have less time to supervise children's daily activities. The research reported here used two waves of data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children to investigate whether mothers' hours in paid work shape young children's television viewing, snacking and physical activity, and through those lifestyle behaviours, children's weight at ages 4-5 years and 6-7 years. At both ages, children's lifestyle behaviours were interrelated and associated with weight status. Cross-sectional analysis confirmed small, direct associations between longer hours of maternal employment and child weight at age 4-5 years, but not with child's weight measured two years later. In both the cross-sectional and prospective analyses, the children of mothers who worked part-time watched less television and were less likely to be overweight than children of mothers who were not employed or who worked full-time. While associations were small, they remained significant after adjustment for maternal weight, household income and other factors. The combination of direct and indirect relationships between mothers' work hours and the weight status of their young children provides additional support to calls for family-friendly work policies as an important means for promoting healthy family lifestyles and early childhood wellbeing.
Using participatory action research to co-design perinatal support strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents experiencing complex trauma
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.WOMBI.2021.12.005
Abstract: Support is important for all parents but critical for those experiencing complex trauma. The The Healing the Past by Nurturing the Future project uses participatory action research to co-design effective perinatal support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents. This research aims to identify and refine culturally appropriate support strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents experiencing complex trauma. We presented our synthesised eight parent support goals and 60 strategies, collated from Elder and parent focus groups, previous participatory workshops, and evidence reviews, for discussion at a stakeholder workshop. Stakeholder perspectives were captured using a three-point agreement activity and, self- and scribe-recorded comments. Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal researchers analysised the qualitative data, to identify core factors which might facilitate or help enact the parenting related goals. Overall, stakeholders (n = 37) strongly endorsed all eight goals. Workshop attendees (57% Aboriginal) represented multiple stakeholder roles including Elder, parent and service provider. Four core factors were identified as crucial for supporting parents to heal from complex trauma: Culture (cultural traditions, practices and strengths), Relationality (family, in idual, community and services), Safety (frameworks, choice and control) and Timing (the right time socio-emotionally and stage of parenting). Context-specific support tailored to the Culture, Relationality, Safety, and Timing needs of parents is essential. These four factors are important elements to help enact or facilitate parenting support strategies. Further work is now required to develop practical resources for parents, and to implement and evaluate these strategies in perinatal care to address cumulative and compounding cycles of intergenerational trauma.
Worries, ‘weirdos’, neighborhoods and knowing people: a qualitative study with children and parents regarding children's independent mobility
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2017.03.005
Abstract: This qualitative study involved focus groups with 132 children and 12 parents in primary and secondary schools in metropolitan and regional areas of Victoria, Australia, to explore experiences and perceptions of children's independent mobility. The study highlights the impact of family routines, neighborhood characteristics, social norms and reference points for decision making. Children reported a wider range of safety concerns than parents, including harm from strangers or traffic, bullying, or getting lost. Children expressed great delight in being independent, often seeking to actively influence parents' decision making. Children's independent mobility is a developmental process, requiring graduated steps and skill building.
Exposure to Inter-Parental Conflict Across 10 Years of Childhood: Data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-02-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S10995-015-1704-3
Abstract: Rates of child exposure to inter-parental conflict are high and appear to be increasing, with at least one million Australian children affected annually. To-date, there is no established prevalence for inter-parental conflict that includes the more common but less severe forms for young families in the wider Australian community. The current study aims were to examine the prevalence, persistence, and the in idual, family and socio-economic context of inter-parental conflict. Data were from four waves of the Baby (n = 4,898) and Kindergarten (n = 4,182) cohorts of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Verbal and physical inter-parental conflict was measured using the Argumentative Relationship Scale. More than 1 in 3 mothers (35-36%) reported any verbal and/or physical conflict. Prevalence of verbal conflict at each wave (10-13%) was higher than physical conflict (4-10%), with low co-occurrence (1-3%). Report of inter-parental conflict at one wave only was most common (19%) although 13% of mothers reported conflict at two waves and 5-6% reported persistent conflict across three or more waves. Social disadvantage was consistently associated with report at one-wave only and persistent inter-parental conflict. Extrapolated to the Australian population, an estimated 1.9 million children are likely to be affected by inter-parental conflict within any 6 years of the early-to-middle childhood period. Establishing accurate prevalence and understanding the social context of the less severe but most common forms of inter-parental conflict will allow family and child support services to allocate finite resources more effectively and develop targeted interventions to promote children's positive development.
Posttraumatic stress symptom severity and health service utilization in trauma-exposed parents.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1037/HEA0000476
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSSs) are common for parents of children with life-threatening illnesses or injuries. The impact of these psychological sequelae on parents' personal use of health services is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate whether PTSS severity prospectively predicts increased health service utilization (HSU), and to examine the relative importance of other predisposing and enabling factors in predicting HSU. The s le comprised 106 parents of children with various life threatening illnesses, who completed a resource use questionnaire at 19 months following their child's diagnosis or admission. HSU was assessed as reported general practitioner and psychologist visits. Parent PTSS severity at 7 months following their child's diagnosis or hospital admission predicted being in higher service utilization categories in the following 12 months as PTSS score increased, the odds of being in higher categories increased. Hierarchical ordinal logistic regression procedures indicated predisposing and enabling factors failed to further explain HSU. These findings highlight the importance of PTSSs to HSU and are consistent with studies of s les experiencing other forms of trauma, such as war or natural disaster. Our results also suggest that an in iduals' need, in terms of the severity of their PTSSs, appears most important in predicting their health service engagement. Although this is positive, the effectiveness of this service use, in terms of cost and outcomes, remains unclear. Further, despite the levels of PTSSs observed in the present s le, a minority of in iduals sought psychosocial care. (PsycINFO Database Record
Designing effective behavioral family interventions for stepfamilies
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1994
Risk factors for childhood mental health symptoms: National longitudinal study of Australian children
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 10-2011
Abstract: To determine predictors of child externalizing (behavioral) and internalizing (emotional) symptoms in a national population s le. Data were collected in 3 biennial waves (2004, 2006, and 2008) from 2 cohorts in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, initially including 5107 children 0 to 1 year of age and 4983 children 4 to 5 years of age. The primary outcomes were child externalizing and internalizing symptoms. Relationships between potential risk factors and child mental health outcomes were described by using linear regression. In unadjusted analyses, children's mental health symptoms were predicted by a large number of risk factors. In multivariate models, early childhood factors (birth through 5 years) explained 30% and 18% of variations in externalizing and internalizing symptoms, respectively, at 4 to 5 years of age. Middle childhood (5–9 years of age) factors explained 20% and 23% of variations in externalizing and internalizing symptoms, respectively, at 8 to 9 years of age. Harsh discipline was a strong consistent predictor of externalizing symptoms in both age groups, whereas poorer child physical health, maternal emotional distress, harsh discipline, and overinvolved rotective parenting (younger cohort only) predicted internalizing symptoms consistently. National data on predictors of child mental health symptoms highlighted a small number of significant risk factors, situated in the family context and present from a very young age. This knowledge is informing population-level, randomized, prevention trials of family support programs.
A longitudinal analysis of puberty-related cortical development
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 06-11-2020
DOI: 10.1101/2020.11.05.370460
Abstract: The brain undergoes extensive structural changes during adolescence, concurrent to puberty-related physical and hormonal changes. While animal research suggests these biological processes are related to one another, our knowledge of brain development in humans is largely based on age-related processes. Thus, the current study characterized puberty-related changes in human brain structure, by combining data from two longitudinal neuroimaging cohorts. Beyond normative changes in cortical thickness, we examined whether in idual differences in the rate of pubertal maturation (or “pubertal tempo”) was associated with variations in cortical trajectories. Participants (N = 192 scans = 366) completed up to three waves of MRI assessments between 8.5 and 14.5 years of age, as well as questionnaire assessments of pubertal stage at each wave. Generalized additive mixture models were used to characterize trajectories of cortical development. Results revealed widespread linear puberty-related changes across much of the cortex. Many of these changes, particularly within the frontal and parietal cortices, were independent of age-related development. Males exhibiting faster pubertal tempo demonstrated greater thinning in the precuneus and frontal cortices than same-aged and -sex peers. Findings suggest that the unique influence of puberty on cortical development may be more extensive than previously identified, and also emphasize important in idual differences in the coupling of these developmental processes.
Psychosocial risk factors associated with fathers’ mental health in the postnatal period: results from a population-based study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-08-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S00127-012-0568-8
Abstract: Fathers' psychological distress in the postnatal period can have adverse effects on their children's wellbeing and development, yet little is known about the factors associated with fathers' distress. This paper examines a broad range of socio-demographic, in idual, infant and contextual factors to identify those associated with fathers' psychological distress in the first year postpartum. Secondary analysis of data from 3,219 fathers participating in the infant cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children at wave 1 when children were 0-12 months of age. Approximately 10 % of fathers reported elevated symptoms of psychological distress. Logistic regression analyses revealed that the risk factors were poor job quality, poor relationship quality, maternal psychological distress, having a partner in a more prestigious occupation and low parental self-efficacy. These findings provide new information to guide the assessment of fathers' risk for psychological distress in postnatal period. There are also important social policy implications related to workplace entitlements and the provision of services for fathers.
Parents' transitions into and out of work-family conflict and children's mental health: Longitudinal influence via family functioning
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2017.10.017
Abstract: The demands arising from the combination of work and family roles can generate conflicts (work-family conflicts), which have become recognized as major social determinants of mothers' and fathers' mental health. This raises the question of the potential effects on children. The current study of 2496 Australian families (7652 observations from children aged 4-5 up to 12-13 years) asks whether changes in children's mental health corresponds with changes in mothers' and fathers' work-family conflicts. Using longitudinal random-effect structural equation models, adjusting for prior child mental health, changes in work-family conflict were examined across four adjacent pairs of biennial data waves. Children's mental health deteriorated when their mother or father experienced an increase in work-family conflict, but improved when parents' work-family conflict reduced. Results held for mothers, fathers and couples, and the key pathways appear to be changes in children's relational environments. These results contribute new evidence that conflicts between the work-family interface are powerful social determinants of mental health which have an intergenerational reach.
Trauma exposure in children with and without ADHD: prevalence and functional impairment in a community-based study of 6–8-year-old Australian children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-10-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00787-017-1067-Y
Abstract: Both ADHD and trauma exposure are common childhood problems, but there are few empirical data regarding the association between the two conditions. The aims of this study were to compare lifetime prevalence of trauma exposure in children with and without ADHD, and to explore the association between trauma exposure and outcomes in children with ADHD. Children aged 6-8 years with ADHD (n = 179) and controls (n = 212) recruited from 43 schools were assessed for ADHD, trauma exposure and comorbid mental health disorders using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV. Outcome data were collected by direct child assessment, parent report and teacher-report, and included ADHD symptom severity, internalizing and externalizing problems, quality of life, and academic functioning. Logistic and linear regression models were used to examine differences adjusted for child and family socio-demographics. Children with ADHD were more likely than controls to have ever experienced a traumatic event (27 vs 16% OR: 1.99 95% CI 1.21, 3.27). This difference remained significant in the adjusted model (OR: 1.76, 95% CI 1.03, 3.01) accounting for child factors (age and gender) and family socio-demographic factors (parent age, parent high school completion and single parent status). Among those with ADHD, trauma-exposed children had higher parent-reported ADHD severity and more externalizing problems than non-exposed children, however, this effect attenuated in adjusted model. Children with ADHD were more likely to have experienced a traumatic event than controls. The high prevalence of trauma exposure in our s le suggests that clinicians should evaluate for trauma histories in children presenting with ADHD.
Featured Article: Trajectories of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Parents of Children With a Serious Childhood Illness or Injury
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 24-05-2018
Abstract: Serious childhood illness is associated with significant parent psychological distress. This study aimed to (a) document acute and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in parents of children with various life-threatening illnesses (b) identify trajectory patterns of parental PTSS and recovery over 18 months (c) determine psychosocial, demographic, and illness factors associated with trajectory group membership. In total, 159 parents (115 mothers, 44 fathers) from 122 families participated in a prospective, longitudinal study that assessed parent psychological responses across four time points-at diagnosis, and 3, 6, and 18 months later. Children were admitted to the Cardiology, Oncology, and Pediatric Intensive Care Departments in a tertiary pediatric hospital. The primary outcome was parent PTSS. Three distinct parent recovery profiles were identified-"Resilient," "Recovery," and "Chronic." The "Resilient" class (33%) showed low distress responses across the trajectory period, whereas the "Recovery" class (52%) showed significantly higher levels of distress at the time of diagnosis that gradually declined over the first months following their child's illness. Both of these classes nevertheless remained within the normative range throughout. In contrast, the "Chronic" class (13%) was consistently high in severity, remaining within the clinical range across the entire period. Psychosocial factors such as mood, anxiety, and emotional responses predicted group membership, whereas demographic and illness factors did not. Parents show considerable resilience in the face of children's life-threatening illnesses. Early assessment of parent psychosocial factors may aid identification of those who would benefit from early intervention.
Mothers' work-family conflict and enrichment: Associations with parenting quality and couple relationship
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-03-2015
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12137
Surgical and Psychosocial Predictors of Mental Health in Parents of Children With Cardiac Admissions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Relationship Between the Parenting Styles of Biological Parents and Stepparents and the Adjustment of Young Adult Stepchildren
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2002
Impact of missing data strategies in studies of parental employment and health: Missing items, missing waves, and missing mothers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2018.03.009
Abstract: Understanding the long-term health effects of employment - a major social determinant - on population health is best understood via longitudinal cohort studies, yet missing data (attrition, item non-response) remain a ubiquitous challenge. Additionally, and unique to the work-family context, is the intermittent participation of parents, particularly mothers, in employment, yielding 'incomplete' data. Missing data are patterned by gender and social circumstances, and the extent and nature of resulting biases are unknown. This study investigates how estimates of the association between work-family conflict and mental health depend on the use of four different approaches to missing data treatment, each of which allows for progressive inclusion of more cases in the analyses. We used 5 waves of data from 4983 mothers participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Only 23% had completely observed work-family conflict data across all waves. Participants with and without missing data differed such that complete cases were the most advantaged group. Comparison of the missing data treatments indicate the expected narrowing of confidence intervals when more s le were included. However, impact on the estimated strength of association varied by level of exposure: At the lower levels of work-family conflict, estimates strengthened (were larger) at higher levels they weakened (were smaller). Our results suggest that inadequate handling of missing data in extant longitudinal studies of work-family conflict and mental health may have misestimated the adverse effects of work-family conflict, particularly for mothers. Considerable caution should be exercised in interpreting analyses that fail to explore and account for biases arising from missing data.
Bidirectional associations between mothers’ feeding practices and child eating behaviours
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-01-2018
Mental Health in Low-to-Moderate Risk Preterm, Low Birth Weight, and Small for Gestational Age Children at 4 to 5 Years: The Role of Early Maternal Parenting
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAAC.2011.12.004
Abstract: The majority of children born preterm, with low birth weight, or small for gestational age are born with low-to-moderate risk (LTM), yet most research focuses on the high-risk group. Little is known about whether children with LTM perinatal risk are at greater risk for mental health problems, or what the role of early maternal parenting is in determining these outcomes. Longitudinal data were from a large nationally representative Australian cohort of 5,000 children, aged 0 to 1, 2 to 3, and 4 to 5 years of age. Participants were 354 children with LTM perinatal risk born at 33 to 36 weeks, with birth weight 1,501 to 2,499 grams, or born between the first and 10th percentiles for gestational age and 2,461 children in the normal birth weight, term comparison group. Child mental health was measured by mother-report on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Parenting irritability, warmth, self-efficacy, maternal separation anxiety, and overprotective parenting were measured when children were 0 to 1 and 2 to 3 years of age. Parents in the LTM perinatal risk group were more likely to experience parenting difficulties on one of eight parenting measures (irritable parenting at age 0-1 year) when adjusting for socio-demographic differences (odds ratio = 1.43 95% confidence interval = 1.05, 1.95, p < .02). This group difference was no longer apparent by age 2 to 3 years. Compared with healthy-term peers, there were small increases in Emotional Symptoms and Total Difficulties on the SDQ for the LTM perinatal risk group at age 4 to 5 years. When accounting for maternal-specific and socio-demographic factors, LTM perinatal risk group continued to predict Emotional Symptoms but not Total Difficulties at age 4 to 5 years. Children with LTM perinatal risk were at a small increased risk for emotional difficulties but did not differ significantly from other children of similar social backgrounds in their risk for generalized mental health problems. These findings support a biological and socio-economic, rather than parenting, pathway to psychological risk in children born with LTM perinatal risk.
Parenting after a history of childhood maltreatment: A scoping review and map of evidence in the perinatal period
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 13-03-2019
National Study of an Early Parenting Intervention: Implementation Differences on Parent and Child Outcomes: Parenting Program Implementation
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-05-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S11121-010-0181-6
Abstract: Sing & Grow is a 10-week group music therapy intervention to promote positive parenting and child development for marginalized parents of birth to 3-year-old children. This paper examined whether changes from pre to post intervention varied according to implementation site, when the intervention was taken to scale nationally. Outcomes for 850 participants were compared for the site where the program was first established against three new locations one site where implementation processes were more favorable relative to the other two sites. Overall, the findings provided only limited support for differential outcomes by site of implementation. Participants showed significant improvements in parent-reported parenting and child outcomes from pre to post that were similar across all sites. For clinician-reported outcomes, improvements over time were generally greater in the original site and the well-supported site compared to the sites where there were more implementation difficulties. These differences were partly accounted for by differences in the characteristics of participants receiving programs in different sites and differences in the clinicians' ratings of program quality and the levels of support and training provided. However, confounding by the source of measurement requires cautious interpretation of clinician data. This study further highlights the potential for music therapy as an early parenting intervention, and the need for more rigorous evaluations in this field.
Health outcomes for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children born preterm, low birthweight or small for gestational age: A nationwide cohort study
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-02-2019
Correction: Family and neighbourhood socioeconomic inequalities in childhood trajectories of BMI and overweight: Longitudinal study of Australian children (PLoS ONE)
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 31-07-2013
DOI: 10.1371/ANNOTATION/F7E5E1F3-77F6-4C56-B0BA-53B54A86DF14
Speech and Language Difficulties Along with Other Child and Family Factors Associated with Health Related Quality of Life of Australian Children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-12-2015
Prevalence and Predictors of Medication Use in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Evidence from a Community-Based Longitudinal Study
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 02-2019
Abstract: To determine, in a community-based s le of primary school-aged children meeting diagnostic criteria for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), (1) the proportion of children with ADHD treated with medication (2) predictors of medication use and (3) the association between medication use and psychological service utilization. Grade 1 children with ADHD were recruited through 43 schools in Melbourne, Australia, using a two-stage screening and case confirmation procedure. Parent report of medication treatment, clinician diagnosis, and psychological service use were collected at ages 7 and 10 years. Medication use was analyzed by ADHD subtype. Predictors of medication treatment examined included ADHD symptom severity and persistence, externalizing comorbidities, poor academic performance, and social disadvantage. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression were used to identify the predictors of medication status. One hundred seventy-nine children with ADHD were recruited. At baseline, 17.3% had been clinically diagnosed with ADHD, increasing to 37.7% at age 10 years. At baseline, 13.6% were taking ADHD medications, increasing to 25.6% at age 10. Children with the combined and hyperactive-impulsive subtypes were more likely to be taking medication than those with inattentive subtype (age 7: p = 0.002 age 10: p = 0.03). ADHD symptom severity (Conners 3 ADHD Index) at baseline was concurrently and prospectively associated with medication use at both ages (both p = 0.01), and ADHD symptom severity at age 10 was also associated with medication use at age 10 (p = 0.01). Baseline area-level disadvantage was associated with medication use at age 7 (p = 0.04). At 10 years, children receiving medication were more likely, compared with those who were not, to be receiving psychological services (p = 0.001). In this study, only a minority of children meeting diagnostic criteria for ADHD were diagnosed clinically or treated with ADHD medication by age 10. The strongest predictors of medication treatment were ADHD symptom severity and area disadvantage.
Stressful life events and the onset of chronic diseases among Australian adults: findings from a longitudinal survey
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-02-2013
Abstract: This article examines the link between stressful life events and illness by considering both onset and reoccurrence of chronic illnesses. Using longitudinal data, we estimate the extent to which life events increase the likelihood of depression or anxiety, type 2 diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, circulatory disease, asthma and emphysema among Australian adults aged ≥21 years. Longitudinal data were obtained from the nationally representative Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia panel survey collected at waves 3 (2003), 7 (2007) and 9 (2009). Participants (N = 9222) answered life events questions relating to the preceding 12 months and chronic illnesses lasting (or expected to last for) 6 months. Weighted pooled and random effects logistic regressions were performed, controlling for confounders and previous illness, and also performed on subs les delineated by reported illnesses in wave 3. Work-related stress [odds ratio (OR) = 1.54, P < 0.001] was positively associated with the onset of depression or anxiety. Personal stress increased the likelihood of the onset of depression or anxiety (OR = 1.70, P < 0.001), type 2 diabetes (OR = 1.47, P < 0.05) and circulatory diseases (OR = 1.72, P < 0.05), while family-related stress increased the likelihood of the onset of heart (OR = 1.32, P < 0.01) and circulatory diseases (OR = 1.32, P < 0.05). Independent of personal characteristics and key health measures (body mass index, hypertension and disability), these findings suggest that work-related, personal and family-related stressful life events contribute to the development and/or course of chronic diseases.
Impact of a Brief Group Intervention to Enhance Parenting and the Home Learning Environment for Children Aged 6–36 Months: a Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-01-2017
The Prevention and Treatment of Children's Adjustment Problems in Stepfamilies
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-07-2008
Maternal postnatal mental health and offspring symptoms of ADHD at 8–9 years: pathways via parenting behavior
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-11-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S00787-018-1254-5
Abstract: Exposure to maternal mental health problems during pregnancy and the first year of life has been associated with the development of ADHD. One pathway through which maternal mental health may influence children's outcomes is via its effects on parenting. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of parenting behavior in the pathway between maternal postnatal distress and later symptoms of ADHD in the child. Biological mothers living with their children participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children with data available from waves 1 (child age 3-12 months) and 5 (child age 8-9 years) were included in the current study (n = 3456). Postnatal distress was assessed by parent report at wave 1. Parenting warmth, hostility and consistency were assessed by parent report at wave 5. ADHD status at wave 5 was ascertained by parent report of the child having a diagnosis of ADHD/ADD or by elevated ADHD symptoms by both parent and teacher report. There was evidence of an indirect pathway from maternal postnatal distress to child ADHD at age 8-9 years via parenting hostility, but not through parenting warmth or consistency, even after accounting for concurrent maternal mental health. Our findings highlight the importance of early identification and intervention for maternal postnatal distress, as treatment may prevent mothers from developing hostile parenting practices and also disrupt the pathway to ADHD in their offspring.
Maternal Work-Family Conflict and Psychological Distress: Reciprocal Relationships Over 8 Years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-11-2016
DOI: 10.1111/JOMF.12262
Interventions during pregnancy or up to two years after birth for parents who are experiencing complex trauma or have experienced maltreatment in their childhood (or both) to improve parenting capacit
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-07-2021
Breastfeeding Duration and Authoritative Feeding Practices in First-Time Mothers
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-12-2016
Abstract: Longer breastfeeding duration appears to have a protective effect against childhood obesity. This effect may be partially mediated by maternal feeding practices during the first years of life. However, the few studies that have examined links between breastfeeding duration and subsequent feeding practices have yielded conflicting results. Using a large s le of first-time mothers and a newly validated, comprehensive measure of maternal feeding (the Feeding Practices and Structure Questionnaire), this study examined associations between breastfeeding duration and maternal feeding practices at child age 24 months. Mothers (n = 458) enrolled in the NOURISH trial provided data on breastfeeding at child age 4, 14, and 24 months, and on feeding practices at 24 months. Structural equation modeling was used to examine associations between breastfeeding duration and 5 nonresponsive and 4 structure-related “authoritative” feeding practices, adjusting for a range of maternal and child characteristics. The model showed acceptable fit (χ 2 /df = 1.68 root mean square error of approximation = .04, comparative fit index = .91, and Tucker-Lewis index = .89) and longer breastfeeding duration was negatively associated with 4 out of 5 nonresponsive feeding practices and positively associated with 3 out of 4 structure-related feeding practices. Overall, these results suggest that mothers who breastfeed longer reported using more appropriate feeding practices. These data demonstrate an association between longer breastfeeding duration and authoritative feeding practices characterized by responsiveness and structure, which may partly account for the apparent protective effect of breastfeeding on childhood obesity.
Teachers’ Experiences of Inclusion of Children with Developmental Disabilities across the Early Years of School
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 26-07-2016
DOI: 10.1017/JGC.2016.19
Abstract: This study reports data from teachers in regular classrooms about their experiences of inclusion for 143 young children with disabilities. Children were recruited from early intervention programs and their experiences were tracked across 3 years, from a Preparatory year to Year 2 of school. Children's teachers rated the appropriateness of the child's placement in their classroom as high to very high. However, most teachers rated the resources and supports available to support inclusion as only adequate. Teachers perceived a range of benefits for the child, peers, and themselves from inclusion but also identified significant challenges, including time pressures and increased responsibilities, as well as various behavioural and developmental concerns that had an impact on all children's learning. Challenges identified deserve continued attention for successful inclusive practice.
Family and Neighbourhood Socioeconomic Inequalities in Childhood Trajectories of BMI and Overweight: Longitudinal Study of Australian Children
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 23-07-2013
Correlates of Anxiety in 6- to 8-Year-Old Children With ADHD: A Community-Based Study
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-03-2016
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the child and parent/family correlates of anxiety in a community-based s le of children with ADHD. Method: Children (6-8 years) with ADHD ( n = 179) and controls ( n = 212) were assessed for ADHD and anxiety using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV. Potential child and parent/family correlates were measured through direct assessments, and parent- and teacher-reported questionnaires. Associations were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: One in four children with ADHD ( n = 44) met criteria for an anxiety disorder, compared with one in 20 controls ( n = 10). Anxiety was common in both boys and girls with ADHD. The strongest correlates of anxiety in multivariate analyses were ADHD subtype, primary caregiver psychosocial distress, and neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage. Conclusion: Anxiety is common in children with ADHD. This study provides insight into the potential parent/family stressors that may increase risk for anxiety in children with ADHD.
Improving Survey Response Rates from Parents in School-Based Research Using a Multi-Level Approach
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 11-05-2015
Employment conditions and maternal postpartum mental health: results from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-11-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S00737-010-0196-9
Abstract: Maternal postpartum mental health is influenced by a broad range of risk and protective factors including social circumstances. Forty percent of Australian women resume employment in the first year postpartum, yet poor quality employment (without security, control, flexibility or leave) has not been investigated as a potential social determinant of maternal psychological distress. This paper examines whether poor quality jobs are associated with an increased risk of maternal postpartum psychological distress. Data were collected from employed mothers of infants ≤12 months (n = 1,300) participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Logistic regression analyses estimated the association between job quality and maternal psychological distress, adjusting for prior depression, social support, quality of partner relationship, adverse life events and sociodemographic characteristics. Only 21% of women reported access to all four optimal job conditions. After adjustment for known risk factors for poor maternal mood, mothers were significantly more likely to report psychological distress (adjusted OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.09, 1.77) with each reduction in the number of optimal employment conditions. Interventions for maternal postpartum affective disorders are unlikely to be successful if major risk factors are not addressed. These results provide strong evidence that employment conditions are associated with maternal postpartum mood, and warrant consideration in psychosocial risk assessments and interventions.
Preschooler obesity and parenting styles of mothers and fathers: Australian national population study.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 12-2007
Abstract: OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this work was to determine relationships between BMI status at ages 4 to 5 years and mothers' and fathers' parenting dimensions and parenting styles. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS. Participants were composed of all 4983 of the 4- to 5-year-old children in wave 1 of the nationally representative Longitudinal Study of Australian Children with complete BMI and maternal parenting data. Mothers and fathers self-reported their parenting behaviors on 3 multi-item continuous scales (warmth, control, and irritability) and were each categorized as having 1 of 4 parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and disengaged) using internal warmth and control tertile cut points. Using a proportional odds model, odds ratios for children being in a higher BMI category were computed for mothers and fathers separately and together, after adjustment for factors associated with child BMI, including mothers' and fathers' BMI status. RESULTS. The s le was composed of 2537 boys and 2446 girls with a mean age 56.9 months 15% were overweight and 5% were obese (International Obesity Task Force criteria). Mothers' parenting behaviors and styles were not associated in any model with higher odds of children being in a heavier BMI category, with or without multiple imputation to account for missing maternal BMI data. Higher father control scores were associated with lower odds of the child being in a higher BMI category. Compared with the reference authoritative style, children of fathers with permissive and disengaged parenting styles had higher odds of being in a higher BMI category. CONCLUSIONS. This article is the first, to our knowledge, to examine the parenting of both parents in relation to preschoolers' BMI status while also adjusting for parental BMI status. Fathers' but not mothers' parenting behaviors and styles were associated with increased risks of preschooler overweight and obesity. Longitudinal impacts of parenting on BMI gain remain to be determined.
The Feeding Practices and Structure Questionnaire (FPSQ-28): A parsimonious version validated for longitudinal use from 2 to 5 years
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.02.031
Abstract: Prospective studies and intervention evaluations that examine change over time assume that measurement tools measure the same construct at each occasion. In the area of parent-child feeding practices, longitudinal measurement properties of the questionnaires used are rarely verified. To ascertain that measured change in feeding practices reflects true change rather than change in the assessment, structure, or conceptualisation of the constructs over time, this study examined longitudinal measurement invariance of the Feeding Practices and Structure Questionnaire (FPSQ) subscales (9 constructs 40 items) across 3 time points. Mothers participating in the NOURISH trial reported their feeding practices when children were aged 2, 3.7, and 5 years (N = 404). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) within a structural equation modelling framework was used. Comparisons of initial cross-sectional models followed by longitudinal modelling of subscales, resulted in the removal of 12 items, including two redundant or poorly performing subscales. The resulting 28-item FPSQ-28 comprised 7 multi-item subscales: Reward for Behaviour, Reward for Eating, Persuasive Feeding, Overt Restriction, Covert Restriction, Structured Meal Setting and Structured Meal Timing. All subscales showed good fit over 3 time points and each displayed at least partial scalar (thresholds equal) longitudinal measurement invariance. We recommend the use of a separate single item indicator to assess the family meal setting. This is the first study to examine longitudinal measurement invariance in a feeding practices questionnaire. Invariance was established, indicating that the subscales of the shortened FPSQ-28 can be used with mothers to validly assess change in 7 feeding constructs in s les of children aged 2-5 years of age.
Participating From the Comfort of Your Living Room: Feasibility of a Group Videoconferencing Intervention to Reduce Distress in Parents of Children With a Serious Illness or Injury
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-07-2016
ADHD at Age 7 and Functional Impairments at Age 10
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 11-2020
Abstract: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cohort studies have typically involved clinical s les and have usually recruited children across wide age ranges, limiting generalizability across complexity and developmental stage. We compared academic, emotional-behavioral and social functioning at age 10, and predictors of outcomes, in a nonreferred cohort of children recruited at age 7, between those with full-syndrome (FS) ADHD and controls with no ADHD. This was a prospective cohort study with a 3-year follow-up period. Children were recruited from 43 socioeconomically erse schools in Melbourne, Australia. Multi-informant outcomes at age 10 were academic functioning (Wide Range Achievement Test 4 Social Skills Improvement System), emotional-behavioral functioning (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire total), and social functioning (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire peer problems). Outcomes were compared across the groups by using adjusted random-effects linear regression analyses. In total, 477 children (62% male) were recruited at a mean (SD) age of 7.3 years (0.4). There were 179 participants with FS ADHD, 86 with ST ADHD, and 212 controls. S le retention was 78.2% at 3-year follow-up. Both the FS and ST groups were functioning worse than controls on almost all outcome measures. The best predictors of outcome for children with ADHD were working memory (academic outcome, P & .001), ADHD symptom severity (emotional-behavioral outcome, parent: P & .001 teacher: P & .01), and autism spectrum disorder symptoms (emotional-behavioral outcome, parent P = .003 social outcome, parent P = .001). Children with FS and ST ADHD at age 7 experience persisting functional impairments across domains at age 10. The predictors identified at age 7 present potential targets for intervention to ameliorate impairments.
Emotional–behavioral resilience among children of first-time mothers with and without depression across the early childhood period
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-01-2017
Abstract: The deleterious effects of maternal depression on child emotional and behavioral development are well documented, yet many children exposed to maternal depression experience positive outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify psychosocial factors associated with the emotional–behavioral resilience of four-year-old children of first-time mothers experiencing depressive symptoms across the early childhood period. Data were from 1085 mother–child dyads in the Maternal Health Study collected prospectively at five time-points from pregnancy to child age four. Longitudinal trajectories of maternal depressive symptoms were identified, and children were regarded as resilient or competent if they scored in the normal range on the Total Difficulties subscale of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. We found that 22% of women had a pattern of moderate to high depressive symptoms, and within this group 78% of their children were identified as resilient. Maternal tertiary education and maternal involvement in home learning activities were unique predictors of children’s resilience. Higher maternal age at the time of pregnancy and financial security were factors associated with positive outcomes for all children. The findings highlight the importance of policy and intervention efforts to strengthen the quality of maternal–child interactions and the home learning environment to promote the emotional and behavioral functioning of children whose mothers are experiencing mental health difficulties in the early years of parenting.
Trajectories of parental involvement in home learning activities across the early years: associations with socio-demographic characteristics and children’s learning outcomes
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-11-2016
Health‐related impairments in young children with ADHD: a community‐based study
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-06-2016
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12363
Abstract: We aimed to examine health-related impairments in young children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and non-ADHD controls and explore differences in children with ADHD by gender, ADHD subtype and mental health co-morbidity status. Children with ADHD (n = 177) and controls (n = 212) aged 6-8 years were recruited across 43 schools in Melbourne, Australia following a screening (Conners 3 ADHD Index) and case confirmation procedure (Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV). Direct and blinded assessments of height and weight were used to calculate body mass index z-score and to identify overweight/obesity. Parents reported on child global health, sleep problems and physical injuries. Unadjusted and adjusted (socio-demographic factors and co-morbidities) logistic and linear regression were conducted to compare health-related impairments between (1) children with and without ADHD (2) boys and girls with ADHD (3) children with ADHD-inattentive and ADHD-combined types and (4) children with ADHD by internalizing and externalizing disorder status. Children with ADHD had poorer global health than controls when adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics (OR: 2.0 95% CI 1.1, 3.9) however, this attenuated after adjusting for co-morbidities. In adjusted analyses, children with ADHD had increased odds of moderate/large sleep problems (OR: 3.1 95% CI 1.4, 6.8), compared with controls. There were no differences between children with and without ADHD in terms of physical injuries or overweight/obesity. Findings were similar when excluding children taking ADHD medication, and health-related impairments did not differ between boys and girls with ADHD. Children with ADHD-combined type had higher BMI z-scores than controls in adjusted analyses (P = 0.04). Children with ADHD and co-occurring internalizing and externalizing co-morbidities were particularly vulnerable to health-related impairments. Young children with ADHD experience a number of health-related impairments, which are exacerbated by the presence of internalizing and externalizing co-morbidities. Clinicians should consider the broader health of children with ADHD in clinical consultations.
A network analysis approach to ADHD symptoms: More than the sum of its parts
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 18-01-2019
Protocol for the Adaptation of a Direct Observational Measure of Parent-Child Interaction for Use With 7–8-Year-Old Children
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 14-01-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYG.2020.619336
Abstract: Parenting sensitivity and mutual parent-child attunement are key features of environments that support children’s learning and development. To-date, observational measures of these constructs have focused on children aged 2–6 years and are less relevant to the more sophisticated developmental skills of children aged 7–8 years, despite parenting being equally important at these ages. We undertook a rigorous process to adapt an existing observational measure for 7–8-year-old children and their parents. This paper aimed to: (i) describe a protocol for adapting an existing framework for rating parent-child interactions, (ii) determine variations in parents’ sensitive responding and parent-child mutual attunement (‘positive mutuality’) by family demographics, and (iii) evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly developed measure (i.e., inter-rater reliability, construct validity). Parent-child dyads completed one home visit, including a free-play observation and parent questionnaire. Dyads were provided with three toy sets: LEGO ® Classic Box, Classic Jenga ® , and animal cards. The Coding of Attachment-Related Parenting (CARP) was adapted for use with 7–8-year-old children, and rating procedures were streamlined for reliable use by non-clinician/student raters, producing the SCARP:7–8 Years. Trained staff rated video-recorded observations on 11 behaviors across two domains (five for parents’ sensitive responding, six for parent-child positive mutuality). Data were available for 596 dyads. Consistently strong inter-rater agreement on the 11 observed behaviors was achieved across the 10-week rating period (average: 87.6%, range: 71.7% to 96.7%). Average ICCs were 0.77 for sensitive responding and 0.84 for positive mutuality. These domains were found to be related but distinct constructs ( r = 0.49, p & 0.001). For both domains, average ratings were strongly associated with the main toy used during the observation ( p & 0.001, highest: cards, lowest: LEGO ® ). Adjusted multivariate linear regression models (accounting for toy choice) revealed that less sensitive responding was associated with younger parent ( p = 0.04), male parent ( p = 0.03), non-English speaking background ( p = 0.04), and greater neighborhood disadvantage ( p = 0.02). Construct validity was demonstrated using six parent-reported psychosocial and parenting measures. The SCARP: 7–8 Years shows promise as a reliable and valid measure of parent-child interaction in the early school years. Toy selection for direct observation should be considered carefully in research and practice settings.
A shared reading intervention with parents to enhance young children's early literacy skills
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-12-2013
Vocabulary Development and Trajectories of Behavioral and Emotional Difficulties Via Academic Ability and Peer Problems
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-01-2019
DOI: 10.1111/CDEV.13219
Abstract: This study investigates associations between trajectories of children's vocabulary development and subsequent behavioral and emotional difficulties via two potential mediating mechanisms literacy and peer problems. Nationally representative data from 4,983 Australian children were used to examine trajectories of receptive vocabulary (4-5, 6-7, and 8-9 years) and hyperactivity-inattention, conduct problems and emotional symptoms (8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15 years), and literacy and peer problems (8-9 years). Lower growth in vocabulary was related to trajectories of hyperactivity-inattention, conduct problems, and emotional symptoms. Literacy was a key mediator explaining these associations. Results were consistent for children below the 50th percentile for vocabulary at 4-5 years compared to the full s le. These findings suggest that early literacy-based interventions may alleviate declining academic, emotional and behavioral functioning in adolescence.
Fathers at Work: Work–Family Conflict, Work–Family Enrichment and Parenting in an Australian Cohort
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-10-2016
Abstract: Contemporary fathering is characterized by the combined responsibilities of employment and parenting. Relationships between work–family conflict, work–family enrichment, and fathering behaviors have not been widely investigated. Secondary data from fathers of 4- to 5-year-old children participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were analyzed ( N = 2,679). Results revealed that higher work–family conflict was associated with irritable (β = .06, p .001), less warm (β = −0.04, p .01), inconsistent parenting (β = −.07, p .001), when sociodemographic and child characteristics were controlled for. Protective associations were found between work–family enrichment and optimal parenting behaviors (β = .10 warmth β = −.05 irritability, p .01). These results were largely unchanged when mental health was included in analyses. Sole-earner fathers and those employed for long hours were most likely to report high work–family conflict. Findings provide impetus for workplace and public policy to extend optimal, family-friendly employment conditions to all parents, including fathers.
Multimodal Structural Neuroimaging Markers of Brain Development and ADHD Symptoms
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1176/APPI.AJP.2018.18010034
Abstract: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a multifactorial disorder with erse associated risk factors and comorbidities. In this study, the authors sought to understand ADHD from a dimensional perspective and to identify neuroanatomical correlates of traits and behaviors that span diagnostic criteria. Multimodal neuroimaging data and multi-informant cognitive and clinical data were collected in a densely phenotyped pediatric cohort (N=160 70 with ADHD age range, 9-12 years). Multivariate analysis identified associations between clinical and cognitive factors and multimodal neuroimaging markers (across tissue volume, cortical thickness, cortical area, and white matter microstructure). The resulting imaging markers were validated in an independent cohort (N=231 132 with ADHD age range, 7-18 years). Four novel patterns of neuroanatomical variation that related to phenotypic variation were identified. The first imaging pattern captured association of head size with sex, socioeconomic status, and mathematics and reading performance. The second pattern captured variation associated with development and showed that in iduals with delayed development were more likely to be receiving ADHD medication. The third pattern was associated with hyperactivity, greater comorbidities, poorer cognition, lower parental education, and lower quality of life. The fourth pattern was associated with a particular profile of poorer cognition and irritability independent of ADHD. The authors further demonstrated that these imaging patterns could predict variation in age and ADHD symptoms in an independent cohort. The findings suggest that ADHD presentation may arise from a summation of several clinical, developmental, or cognitive factors, each with a distinct neuroanatomical foundation. This informs the neurobiological foundations of ADHD and highlights the value of detailed phenotypic data in understanding the neurobiology underlying neurodevelopmental disorders.
Change and stability in work-family conflict and mothers' and fathers' mental health: Longitudinal evidence from an Australian cohort
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2016.02.036
Abstract: Work-family conflict (WFC) occurs when work or family demands are 'mutually incompatible', with detrimental effects on mental health. This study contributes to the sparse longitudinal research, addressing the following questions: Is WFC a stable or transient feature of family life for mothers and fathers? What happens to mental health if WFC increases, reduces or persists? What work and family characteristics predict WFC transitions and to what extent are they gendered? Secondary analyses of 5 waves of data (child ages 4-5 to 12-13 years) from employed mothers (n = 2693) and fathers (n = 3460) participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were conducted. WFC transitions, across four two-year intervals (Waves 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, and 4-5) were classified as never, conscript, exit or chronic. Significant proportions of parents experienced change in WFC, between 12 and 16% of mothers and fathers for each transition 'type'. Parents who remained in chronic WFC reported the poorest mental health (adjusted multiple regression analyses), followed by those who conscripted into WFC. When WFC was relieved (exit), both mothers' and fathers' mental health improved significantly. Predictors of conscript and chronic WFC were somewhat distinct for mothers and fathers (adjusted logit regressions). Poor job quality, a skilled occupation and having more children differentiated chronic fathers' from those who exited WFC. For mothers, work factors only (skilled occupation work hours job insecurity) predicted chronic WFC. Findings reflect the persistent, gendered nature of work and care shaped by workplaces, but also offer tailored opportunities to redress WFC for mothers and fathers. We contribute novel evidence that mental health is directly influenced by the WFC interface, both positively and negatively, highlighting WFC as a key social determinant of health.
What Influences Parental Engagement in Early Intervention? Parent, Program and Community Predictors of Enrolment, Retention and Involvement
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-04-2018
The Association Between Autism Symptoms and Child Functioning in a Sample With ADHD Recruited From the Community
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 11-11-2021
Abstract: Objective: Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms are associated with poorer functioning in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it is unclear which ASD symptom domains are most impairing. This study investigated whether specific ASD symptom domains were associated with child functioning in children with ADHD. Method: Parents of 164 children with ADHD completed a diagnostic interview to assess ADHD and comorbidities. Parents reported on ASD symptoms (Social Communication Questionnaire) and child quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0). Parents and teachers completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (emotional, conduct, and peer problems). Results: Repetitive and stereotyped behaviors were independently associated with emotional ( p = .02) and conduct ( p = .03) problems, and poorer quality of life ( p = .004). Reciprocal social interaction deficits were independently associated with peer problems ( p = .03). Conclusion: Reciprocal social interaction deficits and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors are important areas that should be focused on in ADHD assessment and treatment.
Health Care Costs Associated With Parent-Reported ADHD: A Longitudinal Australian Population–Based Study
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2013
Abstract: Objective: To examine the health care costs associated with ADHD within a nationally representative s le of children. Method: Data were from Waves 1 to 3 (4-9 years) of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children ( N = 4,983). ADHD was defined by previous diagnosis and a measure of ADHD symptoms (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire [SDQ]). Participant data were linked to administrative data on health care costs. Analyses controlled for demographic factors and internalizing and externalizing comorbidities. Results: Costs associated with health care attendances and medications were higher for children with parent-reported ADHD at each age. Cost differences were highest at 8 to 9 years for both health care attendances and medications. Persistent symptoms were associated with higher costs ( p .001). Excess population health care costs amounted to Aus$25 to Aus$30 million over 6 years, from 4 to 9 years of age. Conclusion: ADHD is associated with significant health care costs from early in life. Understanding the costs associated with ADHD is an important first step in helping to plan for service-system changes.
A Cross Sectional Comparison of Predisposing, Reinforcing and Enabling Factors for Lifestyle Health Behaviours and Weight Gain in Healthy and Overweight Pregnant Women
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S10995-016-2148-0
Abstract: Objectives Little is known about the antecedents to dietary and physical activity behaviours that can support healthy gestational weight gain (GWG) across different weight status groups in pregnancy. The aim of this study was to use constructs common to dominant health behaviour theories to determine if predisposing, reinforcing and enabling factors for healthy eating, physical activity and weight gain differed between healthy and overweight pregnant women. Methods Pregnant women (n = 664) aged 29 ± 5 (mean ± SD) years were recruited at 16 ± 2 weeks gestation. Measures were self-reported pre-pregnancy weight, psychosocial constructs for healthy eating, physical activity and GWG and demographic data. Height was measured at 16 weeks. Psychosocial constructs were compared between women with pre-pregnancy weight status of healthy (BMI < 25 kg/m
Australian parents’ work–family conflict: accumulated effects on children’s family environment and mental health
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-08-2020
Sms4dads: Providing information and support to new fathers through mobile phones - A pilot study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 26-10-2017
Bidirectional associations between overweight and health-related quality of life from 4-11 years: Longitudinal Study of Australian Children
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-05-2013
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2013.71
Effect of a Videoconference-Based Online Group Intervention for Traumatic Stress in Parents of Children With Life-threatening Illness
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 31-07-2020
Comparison of Early Feeding Practices in Mother–Father Dyads and Possible Generalization of an Efficacious Maternal Intervention to Fathers’ Feeding Practices: A Secondary Analysis
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-08-2020
Abstract: To compare feeding practices within mother–father dyads and explore whether outcomes of an efficacious intervention for mothers generalised to fathers’ feeding practices. The NOURISH RCT evaluated an early feeding intervention that promoted positive feeding practices to support development of healthy eating habits and growth. The intervention was delivered to first-time mothers via 2 × 12 week modules commencing when children were 4 and 14 months. Mothers self-reported feeding practice outcomes at child age 2 years using validated scales (1 = low to 5 = high) from the Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ). Nine months later, an independent cross-sectional descriptive study to investigate fathers’ feeding practices was initiated. Fathers were recruited by contacting (via letter) mothers participating in two pre-existing studies, including the NOURISH trial. Fathers completed a feeding practices questionnaire, similar to that used for NOURISH outcome assessments. Seventy-five fathers recruited via the NOURISH cohort (21% response) returned questionnaires. Response data from this subset of fathers were then linked to the corresponding NOURISH maternal data. Complete data were available from 70 dyads. Compared with mothers, fathers self-reported higher concern about child overweight (2.2 vs. 1.3), restriction (3.6 vs. 2.9) and pressure (2.6 vs. 2.1), all p 0.001. Fathers whose partners were allocated to the intervention group used less pressure (mean difference 0.46, p = 0.045) and were more willing to let the child decide how much to eat (−0.51, p = 0.032). Fathers’ higher concern about child weight and more frequent use of non-responsive feeding practices, when compared with mothers, identify them as potentially potent contributors to child feeding. This preliminary evidence for modest generalisation of an efficacious maternal intervention to apparent effects on some paternal feeding practices speaks to the importance and promise of including fathers in early feeding interventions.
Weight-related risk perception among healthy and overweight pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-06-2015
DOI: 10.1038/JP.2015.57
Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate weight-related risk perception in early pregnancy and to compare this perception between women commencing pregnancy healthy weight and overweight. Pregnant women (n=664) aged 29±5 (mean±s.d.) years were recruited from a metropolitan teaching hospital in Australia. A self-administered questionnaire was completed at around 16 weeks of gestation. Height measured at baseline and self-reported pre-pregnancy weight were used to calculate body mass index. Cross-sectional analysis was conducted.Differences between groups were assessed using chi-squared tests for categorical variables and t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests for continuous variables depending on distribution. Excess gestational weight gain (GWG) during pregnancy was more important in leading to health problems for women or their child compared with pre-pregnancy weight. Personal risk perception for complications was low for all women, although overweight women had slightly higher scores than healthy-weight women (2.4±1.0 vs 2.9±1.0 P<0.001). All women perceived their risk for complications to be below that of an average pregnant woman. Women should be informed of the risk associated with their pre-pregnancy weight (in the case of maternal overweight) and excess GWG. If efforts to raise risk awareness are to result in preventative action, this information needs to be accompanied by advice and appropriate support on how to reduce risk.
Intimate partner violence and child outcomes at age 10: a pregnancy cohort
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 21-04-2021
DOI: 10.1136/ARCHDISCHILD-2020-320321
Abstract: Assess the mental health, physical health, cognitive and language development of 10-year old children in families where mothers have reported intimate partner violence (IPV) compared with children with no reported IPV exposure. Prospective pregnancy cohort. Maternal report of IPV (Composite Abuse Scale) at 1, 4 and 10 years. Maternal and direct assessment of child mental health (probable psychiatric diagnosis, anxiety and emotional/behavioural difficulties), cognition (IQ and executive function), language (general, pragmatic and receptive) and physical health at 10 years. A subs le of 615 mother–child dyads drawn from a pregnancy cohort of 1507 nulliparous women recruited from six public hospitals in Melbourne, Australia. Any IPV exposure from infancy to age 10 was associated with poorer child outcomes at age 10. Specifically, twice the odds of a probable psychiatric diagnosis, emotional/behavioural difficulties, impaired language skills (general and pragmatic), and having consulted a health professional about asthma or sleep problems. IPV exposure at age 10 associated with two to three times higher odds of all mental health outcomes, elevated blood pressure and sleep problems. Early life exposure alone (at 1 and/or 4 years) associated with three times higher odds of a general language problem and asthma at age 10. The high prevalence of IPV and increased risk of poorer health and development among children exposed highlights the burden of ill health carried by children in families experiencing IPV. Fewer difficulties where exposure was limited to the early years builds the case for better identification, understanding and resourcing of effective early intervention.
Television Viewing by School-Age Children: Associations with Physical Activity, Snack Food Consumption and Unhealthy Weight
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-08-2010
Discussing Assessment Findings with Families
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-1993
Protocol for the Let’s Grow randomised controlled trial: examining efficacy, cost-effectiveness and scalability of a m-Health intervention for movement behaviours in toddlers
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-057521
Abstract: Despite being an important period for the development of movement behaviours (physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep), few interventions commencing prior to preschool have been trialled. The primary aim of this trial is to assess the 12-month efficacy of the Let’s Grow mHealth intervention, designed to improve the composition of movement behaviours in children from 2 years of age. Let’s Grow is novel in considering composition of movement behaviours as the primary outcome, using non-linear dynamical approaches for intervention delivery, and incorporating planning for real-world implementation and scale-up from its inception. A randomised controlled trial will test the effects of the 12-month parental support mHealth intervention, Let’s Grow , compared with a control group that will receive usual care plus electronic newsletters on unrelated topics for cohort retention. Let’s Grow will be delivered via a purpose-designed mobile web application with linked SMS notifications. Intervention content includes general and movement-behaviour specific parenting advice and incorporates established behaviour change techniques. Intervention adherence will be monitored by app usage data. Data will be collected from participants using 24-hour monitoring of movement behaviours and parent report at baseline (T 0 ), mid-intervention (T 1 6 months post baseline), at intervention conclusion (T 2 12 months post baseline) and 1-year post intervention (T 3 2 years post baseline). The trial aims to recruit 1100 families from across Australia during 2021. In addition to assessment of efficacy, an economic evaluation and prospective scalability evaluation will be conducted. The study was approved by the Deakin University Human Ethics Committee (2020-077). Study findings will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentation at scientific and professional conferences, and via social and traditional media. ACTRN12620001280998 U1111-1252-0599.
Using Paid and Free Facebook Methods to Recruit Australian Parents to an Online Survey: An Evaluation (Preprint)
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-2018
Abstract: he prevalence of social media makes it a potential alternative to traditional offline methods of recruiting and engaging participants in health research. Despite burgeoning use and interest, few studies have rigorously evaluated its effectiveness and feasibility in terms of recruitment rates and costs, s le representativeness, and retention. his study aimed to determine the feasibility of using Facebook to recruit employed Australian parents to an online survey about managing work and family demands, specifically to examine (1) recruitment rates and costs (2) s le representativeness, compared with a population-based cohort of parents and (3) retention, including demographic and health characteristics of parents who returned to complete a follow-up survey 6 weeks later. ecruitment was conducted using 20 paid Facebook advertising c aigns, supplemented with free advertising approaches such as posts on relevant Facebook pages and requests for professional networks to circulate the survey link via Facebook. Recruitment rates and costs were evaluated using the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys, including view rate, participation rate, completion rate, cost per consent, and cost per completer. S le representativeness was evaluated by comparing demographic and outcome variables with a comparable s le from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children including educational attainment, marital status, country of birth, neighborhood disadvantage, work-family conflict, and psychological distress. Retention was evaluated by comparing the number and demographic characteristics of participants at recruitment and at 6-week follow-up. ecruitment strategies together resulted in 6653 clicks on the survey link, from which 5378 parents consented to participate and 4665 (86.74%) completed the survey. Of those who completed the survey, 85.94% (4009/4665) agreed to be recontacted, with 57.79% (2317/4009) completing the follow-up survey (ie, 43.08% [2317/5378] of parents who consented to the initial survey). Paid Facebook advertising recruited nearly 75% of the s le at Aus $2.32 per completed survey (Aus $7969 spent, 3440 surveys completed). Compared with a population-based s le, participants at baseline were more likely to be university educated (P .001), experience greater work-family conflict (P .001) and psychological distress (P .001), and were less likely to be born outside Australia (P .001) or live in a disadvantaged neighborhood (P .001). acebook provided a feasible, rapid method to recruit a large national s le of parents for health research. However, some s le biases were observed and should be considered when recruiting participants via Facebook. Retention of participants at 6- to 8-week follow-up was less than half the initial s le this may reflect limited ongoing participant engagement for those recruited through social media, compared with face-to-face.
Leave Duration After Childbirth
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-11-2012
Abstract: In this article, we use longitudinal data on Australian two-parent families to assess the impact of mothers’ leave duration after childbirth on their subsequent mental health, quality of parenting, and couple relationships. We found that 2 to 3 years after the birth, psychological distress was significantly less likely among mothers who took weeks paid leave or to 52 weeks leave in total. However, those who took weeks in total were more likely to register as “distant” in their parenting relationship. The analysis also highlighted the importance of leave supports at the workplace: Mothers who experienced workplace problems during their pregnancy were more likely to report feeling rushed and to rate their couple relationship as unhappy or argumentative 2 to 3 years later. Overall, our study underlined the complexity of leave impact but affirmed the importance of leave duration for maternal mental health and leave takers’ workplace supports for maternal and family outcomes.
Heightened Maternal Separation Anxiety in the Postpartum: The Role of Socioeconomic Disadvantage
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 31-03-2014
Abstract: Maternal separation anxiety (MSA) refers to feelings of anxiety elicited in a mother during separation from her infant. The role of social and structural disadvantage in the etiology of high MSA has been overlooked. Secondary analysis of data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children ( N = 3,897) revealed that compared to socioeconomically advantaged women, women of low socioeconomic position had a fourfold increased odds of reporting high ( th percentile) MSA (odds ratio = 4.37, 95% confidence interval = 3.24-5.89), even when maternal and infant characteristics were controlled for. Inadequate social support and residing in a poor quality neighborhood were also significantly associated with high MSA in adjusted analyses. These findings indicate that high MSA is more common in socioeconomically disadvantaged women and might be a response to adverse circumstances. Mothers’ experience of, and reasons for, MSA needs to be considered in policy formulation about parental leave and postpartum employment, particularly for disadvantaged mothers.
Evaluating parent-child group music therapy programmes: Challenges and successes for Sing & Grow
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 07-07-2011
Does the treatment of anxiety in children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) using cognitive behavioral therapy improve child and family outcomes? Protocol for a randomized controlle
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-11-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12888-019-2276-3
Abstract: Up to 60% of children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) meet diagnostic criteria for at least one anxiety disorder, including Social, Generalized and/or Separation Disorder. Anxiety in children with ADHD has been shown to be associated with poorer child and family functioning. Small pilot studies suggest that treating anxiety in children with ADHD using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has promising benefits. In a fully powered randomized controlled trial (RCT), we aim to investigate the efficacy of an existing CBT intervention adapted for children with ADHD and comorbid anxiety compared with usual care. This RCT is recruiting children aged 8–12 years ( N = 228) from pediatrician practices in Victoria, Australia. Eligibility criteria include meeting full diagnostic criteria for ADHD and at least one anxiety disorder (Generalized, Separation or Social). Eligible children are randomized to receive a 10 session CBT intervention (Cool Kids) versus usual clinical care from their pediatrician. The intervention focuses on building child and parent skills and strategies to manage anxiety and associated impairments including cognitive restructuring and graded exposure. Minor adaptations have been made to the delivery of the intervention to meet the needs of children with ADHD including increased use of visual materials and breaks between activities. The primary outcome is change in the proportion of children meeting diagnostic criteria for an anxiety disorder at 5 months randomization. This will be assessed via diagnostic interview with the child’s parent (Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for Children V) conducted by a researcher blinded to intervention condition. Secondary outcomes include a range of child (e.g., anxiety symptoms, ADHD severity, behavior, quality of life, sleep, cognitive functioning, school attendance) and parent (e.g., mental health, parenting behaviors, work attendance) domains of functioning assessed at 5 and 12 months post-randomization. Outcomes will be analyzed using logistic and mixed effects regression. The results from this study will provide evidence on whether treating comorbid anxiety in children with ADHD using a CBT approach leads to improvements in anxiety and/or broader functional outcomes. This trial was prospectively registered: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN59518816 ( 10.1186/ISRCTN59518816 ). The trial was first registered 29/9/15 and last updated 15/1/19.
Community Perspectives of Complex Trauma Assessment for Aboriginal Parents: ‘Its Important, but How These Discussions Are Held Is Critical’
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 15-09-2020
Evaluation of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strengths based coaching program: a study protocol
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-07-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-021-11503-3
Abstract: Increasingly, strength-based approaches to health and wellbeing interventions with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are being explored. This is a welcome counter to deficit-based initiatives which can represent a non-Indigenous view of outcomes of interest. However, the evidence base is not well developed. This paper presents the protocol for evaluating a strengths-based initiative which provides life coaching services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community housing tenants. The study aims to evaluate the effect of life coaching on social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) of tenants in three Victorian regions. The More Than a Landlord (MTAL) study is a prospective cohort study of Aboriginal Housing Victoria tenants aged 16 years and over that embeds the evaluation of a life coaching program. All tenant holders in one metropolitan and two regional areas of Victoria are invited to participate in a survey of SEWB, containing items consistent with key categories of SEWB as understood and defined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and key demographics, administered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peer researchers at baseline, 6 and 18 months. Survey participants are then invited to participate in strengths based life coaching, using the GROW model, for a duration of up to 18 months. Indigenous life coaches provide tenants with structured support in identifying and making progress towards their goals and aspirations, rather than needs. The study aims to recruit a minimum of 200 survey participants of which it is anticipated that approximately 73% will agree to life coaching. The MTAL study is a response to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and organisational requests to build the evidence base for an initiative originally developed and piloted within an Aboriginal controlled organisation. The study design aligns with key principles for research in Indigenous communities in promoting control, decision making and capacity building. The MTAL study will provide essential evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of strengths-based initiatives in promoting SEWB in these communities and provide new evidence about the relationship between strengths, resilience, self-determination and wellbeing outcomes. This trial was retrospectively registered with the ISRCTN Register on the 12/7/21 with the study ID: ISRCTN33665735 .
Facilitated Parent-child Groups as Family Support: A Systematic Literature Review of Supported Playgroup Studies
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-04-2018
What matters for working fathers? Job characteristics, work-family conflict and enrichment, and fathers' postpartum mental health in an Australian cohort
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2015.09.028
Abstract: One in ten fathers experience mental health difficulties in the first year postpartum. Unsupportive job conditions that exacerbate work-family conflict are a potential risk to fathers' mental health given that most new fathers (95%) combine parenting with paid work. However, few studies have examined work-family conflict and mental health for postpartum fathers specifically. The aim of the present study was to identify the particular work characteristics (e.g., work hours per week, job quality) associated with work-family conflict and enrichment, and fathers' mental health in the postpartum period. Survey data from 3243 fathers of infants (aged 6-12 months) participating in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were analysed via path analysis, considering key confounders (age, education, income, maternal employment, maternal mental health and relationship quality). Long and inflexible work hours, night shift, job insecurity, a lack of autonomy and more children in the household were associated with increased work-family conflict, and this was in turn associated with increased distress. Job security, autonomy, and being in a more prestigious occupation were positively associated with work-family enrichment and better mental health. These findings from a nationally representative s le of Australian fathers contribute novel evidence that employment characteristics, via work-family conflict and work-family enrichment, are key determinants of fathers' postnatal mental health, independent from established risk factors. Findings will inform the provision of specific 'family-friendly' conditions protective for fathers during this critical stage in the family life-cycle, with implications for their wellbeing and that of their families.
Data resource profile: The Child LAnguage REpository (CLARE)
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 19-03-2018
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYY034
Father mental health during the early parenting period: results of an Australian population based longitudinal study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-04-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S00127-012-0510-0
Abstract: The primary objective of this study was to report on the occurrence of mental health difficulties for a large national s le of Australian fathers of children aged 0-5 years (n = 3,471). Secondary objectives were to compare fathers' mental health against normative data for the general male adult population, and to examine the course of mental health problems for fathers across the early childhood period. Secondary analysis of data from the infant cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children at three waves when children were 0-12 months, 2-3 and 4-5 years. Comparative data on the prevalence of psychological distress in the Australian adult male population sourced from the National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Approximately nine per cent of fathers reported symptomatic or clinical psychological distress at each wave, as measured by the Kessler-6. Approximately 30 % reporting distress at wave 1 continued to report distress at a similar or worse level across waves 2 and 3. Fathers not living with their children also had high rates of distress (14 % at wave 1 and 10 % at wave 2). Finally, fathers in the present study had 1.38 increased odds (95 % CI 1.12-1.69) for psychological distress compared with the Australian adult male population. Fathers are at risk of experiencing postnatal mental health difficulties, which may persist across the early childhood period for some fathers. The results suggest routine assessment of fathers' wellbeing should be undertaken in the postnatal period with mental health interventions and support provided across the early childhood period.
Maternal and Child Health Nursing education before and during COVID-19: An exploratory descriptive study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2022
Language Problems in Children With ADHD: A Community-Based Study
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 05-2014
Abstract: To examine the prevalence of language problems in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) versus non-ADHD controls, and the impact of language problems on the social and academic functioning of children with ADHD. Children (6 to 8 years) with ADHD (n = 179) and controls (n = 212) were recruited through 43 Melbourne schools. ADHD was assessed by using the Conners 3 ADHD Index and the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV. Oral language was assessed by using the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, fourth edition, screener. Academic functioning was measured via direct assessment (Wide Range Achievement Test 4) and teacher report (Social Skills Improvement System). Social functioning was measured via parent and teacher report (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Social Skills Improvement System). Logistic and linear regression models were adjusted for sociodemographic factors and child comorbidities. Children with ADHD had a higher prevalence of language problems than controls after adjustment for sociodemographic factors and comorbidities (odds ratio, 2.8 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5 to 5.1). Compared with children with ADHD alone, those with language problems had poorer word reading (mean difference [MD], −11.6 95% CI, −16.4 to −6.9 effect size, −0.7), math computation (MD, −11.4 95% CI, −15.0 to −7.7 effect size, −0.8), and academic competence (MD, −10.1 95% CI, −14.0 to −6.1 effect size, −0.7). Language problems were not associated with poorer social functioning. Children with ADHD had a higher prevalence of language problems than controls, and language problems in children with ADHD contributed to markedly poorer academic functioning.
Ethical Considerations in Using Social Media to Engage Research Participants: Perspectives of Australian Researchers and Ethics Committee Members
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 14-06-2019
Abstract: Researchers increasingly use social media (SM) to recruit, retain, and trace participants, yet empirical literature investigating the ethics of engaging participants via SM is lacking. We conducted a survey of 401 Australian researchers and human research ethics committee (HREC) members to examine their experience, attitudes, and ethical concerns toward engaging participants via SM. Data revealed that researchers and HREC members share similar concerns and attitudes about using SM in general and in research. We identified a strong demand for additional support, training, and guidance on SM research ethics. This need reflects researchers’ and HREC members’ limited confidence and knowledge of ethical issues in this context and a lack of awareness of available SM-specific ethical guidelines.
EHLS at School: school-age follow-up of the Early Home Learning Study cluster randomized controlled trial
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-05-2018
Autism spectrum disorder symptoms in children with ADHD: A community-based study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.RIDD.2015.09.016
Abstract: This study examined the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms in a community-based s le of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and non-ADHD controls. We also examined the relationship between ASD symptoms and ADHD subtype, ADHD symptom severity and child gender. Participants were 6-10-year-old children (164 ADHD 198 non-ADHD control) attending 43 schools in Melbourne, Australia, who were participating in the Children's Attention Project. ADHD was assessed in two stages using the parent and teacher Conners' 3 ADHD index and the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children IV (DISC-IV). ASD symptoms were identified using the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Unadjusted and adjusted linear and logistic regression examined continuous and categorical outcomes, respectively. Children with ADHD had more ASD symptoms than non-ADHD controls (adjusted mean difference=4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8 5.3, p<0.001, effect size=0.7). Boys with ADHD had greater ASD symptom severity than girls with ADHD (adjusted mean difference=2.9, 95% CI 0.8 5.2, p=0.01, effect size=0.4). Greater ADHD symptom severity was associated with greater ASD symptom severity (regression co-efficient=1.6, 95% CI 1.2 2.0, p<0.001). No differences were observed by ADHD subtype. Greater hyperactive/impulsive symptoms were associated with greater ASD symptoms (regression coefficient=1.0 95% CI 0.0 2.0, p=0.04) however, this finding attenuated in adjusted analyses (p=0.45). ASD symptoms are common in children with ADHD. It is important for clinicians to assess for ASD symptoms to ensure appropriate intervention.
Companionship and Worries in Uncertain Times: Australian Parents’ Experiences of Children and Pets During COVID-19
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-03-2022
A longitudinal analysis of puberty‐related cortical development
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Socioeconomic inequality profiles in physical and developmental health from 0-7 years: Australian national study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 19-10-2012
Abstract: Early and persistent exposure to socioeconomic disadvantage impairs children's health and wellbeing. However, it is unclear at what age health inequalities emerge or whether these relationships vary across ages and outcomes. We address these issues using cross-sectional Australian population data on the physical and developmental health of children at ages 0-1, 2-3, 4-5 and 6-7 years. 10 physical and developmental health outcomes were assessed in 2004 and 2006 for two cohorts each comprising around 5000 children. Socioeconomic position was measured as a composite of parental education, occupation and household income. Lower socioeconomic position was associated with increased odds for poor outcomes. For physical health outcomes and socio-emotional competence, associations were similar across age groups and were consistent with either threshold effects (for poor general health, special healthcare needs and socio-emotional competence) or gradient effects (for illness with wheeze, sleep problems and injury). For socio-emotional difficulties, communication, vocabulary and emergent literacy, stronger socioeconomic associations were observed. The patterns were linear or accelerated and varied across ages. From very early childhood, social disadvantage was associated with poorer outcomes across most measures of physical and developmental health and showed no evidence of either strengthening or attenuating at older compared to younger ages. Findings confirm the importance of early childhood as a key focus for health promotion and prevention efforts.
Specific language impairment: a convenient label for whom?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2014
Developmental brain trajectories in children with ADHD and controls: A longitudinal neuroimaging study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-03-2016
Managing Anxiety in Children With ADHD Using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-05-2015
Abstract: Objective: This pilot randomized controlled trial examined the acceptability and feasibility of a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention for children with ADHD and anxiety, and provided preliminary information on child and family outcomes. Method: Children with ADHD and anxiety (8-12 years) were randomized to receive an adapted version of the Cool Kids CBT program or usual clinical care. Key outcomes included feasibility and acceptability of the intervention (participant enrollment, drop-out, intervention session attendance), remission of anxiety assessed via diagnostic interview, ADHD symptom severity, quality of life (QoL), and parent mental health. Results: Twelve children participated (67% uptake). Most families attended all 10 intervention sessions, with no drop-outs. Intervention participants had marked improvements in both child and family well-being by parent and teacher report, including anxiety, ADHD symptom severity, QoL, and parent mental health. Conclusion: Non-pharmacological interventions may improve important domains of functioning for children with ADHD and anxiety, including ADHD symptom severity.
Healing the Past by Nurturing the Future—co-designing perinatal strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents experiencing complex trauma: framework and protocol for a community-based p
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-028397
Abstract: Child maltreatment and other traumatic events can have serious long-term physical, social and emotional effects, including a cluster of distress symptoms recognised as ‘complex trauma’. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Aboriginal) people are also affected by legacies of historical trauma and loss. Trauma responses may be triggered during the transition to parenting in the perinatal period. Conversely, becoming a parent offers a unique life-course opportunity for healing and prevention of intergenerational transmission of trauma. This paper outlines a conceptual framework and protocol for an Aboriginal-led, community-based participatory action research (action research) project which aims to co-design safe, acceptable and feasible perinatal awareness, recognition, assessment and support strategies for Aboriginal parents experiencing complex trauma. This formative research project is being conducted in three Australian jurisdictions (Northern Territory, South Australia and Victoria) with key stakeholders from all national jurisdictions. Four action research cycles incorporate mixed methods research activities including evidence reviews, parent and service provider discussion groups, development and psychometric evaluation of a recognition and assessment process and drafting proposals for pilot, implementation and evaluation. Reflection and planning stages of four action research cycles will be undertaken in four key stakeholder workshops aligned with the first four Intervention Mapping steps to prepare programme plans. Ethics and dissemination protocols are consistent with the National Health and Medical Research Council Indigenous Research Excellence criteria of engagement, benefit, transferability and capacity-building. A conceptual framework has been developed to promote the application of core values of safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, collaboration, culture, holism, compassion and reciprocity. These include related principles and accompanying reflective questions to guide research decisions.
Bidirectional Associations Between Mothers’ and Fathers’ Parenting Consistency and Child BMI
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 12-2013
Abstract: Research suggests that general parenting dimensions and styles are associated with children’s BMI, but directionality in this relationship remains unknown. Moreover, there has been little attention to the influences of both mothers’ and fathers’ parenting. We aimed to examine reciprocal relationships between maternal and paternal parenting consistency and child BMI. Participants were 4002 children and their parents in the population-based Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Mothers and fathers self-reported parenting consistency, and children’s BMI was measured at 4 biennial waves starting at age 4 to 5 years in 2004. Bidirectionality between parenting and child BMI was examined by using regression analyses in cross-lagged models. The best-fitting models indicated a modest influence from parenting to child BMI, whereas no support was found for bidirectional influences. For mothers, higher levels of parenting consistency predicted lower BMI in children from Waves 1 to 2 and 3 to 4 for ex le, for every SD increase in mothers’ parenting consistency at Wave 1, child BMIz fell by 0.025 in Wave 2 (95% confidence interval: −0.05 to −0.003). For fathers, higher levels of parenting consistency were associated with lower child BMI from Waves 1 to 2 and 2 to 3. Parenting inconsistency of mothers and fathers prospectively predicted small increases in offspring BMI over 2-year periods across middle childhood. However, child BMI did not appear to influence parenting behavior. These findings support recent calls for expanding childhood overweight interventions to address the broad parenting context while involving both mothers and fathers.
Association between autism symptoms and family functioning in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a community-based study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-05-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S00787-016-0861-2
Abstract: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms are elevated in populations of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study examined cross-sectional associations between ASD symptoms and family functioning in children with and without ADHD. Participants were recruited to a longitudinal cohort study, aged 6-10 years (164 ADHD 198 controls). ADHD cases were ascertained using community-based screening and diagnostic confirmation from a diagnostic interview. ASD symptoms were measured using the Social Communication Questionnaire. Outcome variables were parent mental health, family quality of life (FQoL), couple conflict and support, and parenting behaviours. After adjustment for a range of child and family factors (including other mental health comorbidities), higher ASD symptoms were associated with poorer FQoL across all three domains emotional impact (p = 0.008), family impact (p = 0.001) and time impact (p = 0.003). In adjusted analyses by subgroup, parents of children with ADHD+ASD had poorer parent self-efficacy (p = 0.01), poorer FQoL (p ≤ 0.05), with weak evidence of an association for less couple support (p = 0.06), compared to parents of children with ADHD only. Inspection of covariates in the adjusted analyses indicated that the association between ASD symptoms and most family functioning measures was accounted forby child internalising and externalising disorders, ADHD severity, and socioeconomic status however, ASD symptoms appear to be independently associated with poorer FQoL in children with ADHD. The presence of ASD symptoms in children with ADHD may signal the need for enhanced family support.
Ethical issues in using the internet to engage participants in family and child research: A scoping review
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 27-09-2018
A Developmental Cascade Model of Behavioral Sleep Problems and Emotional and Attentional Self-Regulation Across Early Childhood
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-11-2017
DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2015.1065410
Abstract: This article documents the longitudinal and reciprocal relations among behavioral sleep problems and emotional and attentional self-regulation in a population s le of 4,109 children participating in Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC)-Infant Cohort. Maternal reports of children's sleep problems and self-regulation were collected at five time-points from infancy to 8-9 years of age. Longitudinal structural equation modeling supported a developmental cascade model in which sleep problems have a persistent negative effect on emotional regulation, which in turn contributes to ongoing sleep problems and poorer attentional regulation in children over time. Findings suggest that sleep behaviors are a key target for interventions that aim to improve children's self-regulatory capacities.
Student–teacher relationship quality in children with and without ADHD: A cross-sectional community based study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
Factors associated with trajectories of psychological distress for Australian fathers across the early parenting period
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-02-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00127-014-0834-Z
Abstract: Little is known about the course of fathers' psychological distress and associated risk factors beyond the postnatal period. Therefore, the current study aimed to: (a) assess the course of distress over 7 years postnatally (b) identify classes of fathers defined by their symptom trajectories and (c) identify early postnatal factors associated with persistent symptoms. Data from 2,470 fathers in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were analysed using latent growth modelling. Fathers' psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler-6 (Kessler et al. in Arch Psychiatry 60:184-189, 2003) when their children were aged 0-1, 2-3, 4-5 and 6-7 years. Overall, distress was highest in the first postnatal year and then decreased over time. Two distinct trajectories were identified. The majority of fathers (92%) were identified as having minimal distress in the first postnatal year which decreased over time, whilst 8% had moderate distress which increased over time. Low parental self-efficacy, poor relationship and job quality were associated with 'persistent and increasing distress'. Early postnatal factors associated with fathers' persistent distress were identified, providing opportunities for early identification and targeted early intervention.
The Children’s Attention Project: a community-based longitudinal study of children with ADHD and non-ADHD controls
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-01-2013
Service Provider Attitudes toward Evidence-Based Programs in an Australian Place-Based Initiative: Examining Organisational Roles and Evidence-Supportive Environments
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-06-2022
Which presenteeism measures are more sensitive to depression and anxiety?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2006.10.024
Abstract: Lost productivity from attending work when unwell, or "presenteeism", is a largely hidden cost of mental disorders in the workplace. Sensitive measures are needed for clinical and policy applications, however there is no consensus on the optimal self-report measure to use. This paper examines the sensitivity of four alternative measures of presenteeism to depression and anxiety in an Australian employed cohort. A prospective single-group study in ten call centres examined the association of presenteeism (presenteeism days, inefficiency days, Work Limitations Questionnaire, Stanford Presenteeism Scale) with Patient Health Questionnaire depression and anxiety syndromes. At baseline, all presenteeism measures were sensitive to differences between those with (N=69) and without (N=363) depression/anxiety. Only the Work Limitations Questionnaire consistently showed worse productivity as depression severity increased, and sensitivity to remission and onset of depression/anxiety over the 6-month follow-up (N=231). There was some evidence of in idual depressive symptoms having a differential association with different types of job demands. The study findings may not generalise to other occupational settings with different job demands. We were unable to compare responders with non-responders at baseline due to anonymity. In this community s le the Work Limitations Questionnaire offered additional sensitivity to depression severity, change over time, and in idual symptoms. The comprehensive assessment of work performance offers significant advantages in demonstrating both the in idual and economic burden of common mental disorders, and the potential gains from early intervention and treatment.
Comparison of methods for recruiting and engaging parents in online interventions: study protocol for the Cry Baby infant sleep and settling program
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-11-2015
Maternal and Child Health nurse's preparedness to respond to women and children experiencing intimate partner violence: A cross sectional study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Association Between Parenting Style and Social Outcomes in Children with and Without Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: An 18-Month Longitudinal Study
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 07-2017
Postnatal depression and anxiety screening and management by maternal and child health nurses in community settings: A scoping review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2021
DOI: 10.1016/J.MIDW.2021.103039
Abstract: To examine the range and nature of primary research evidence on postnatal depression and anxiety screening and management by maternal and child health nurses within community settings. Maternal and child health nurses are well-placed to identify and support women at risk of, or experiencing, postnatal depression and anxiety- a prevalent public health issue which remains largely undetected. Scoping methodology, guided by the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) framework, was used. The following electronic databases were searched in June 2019 and again in July 2020: Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and COCHRANE Library. Primary studies that were published in English, between 2008 and 2020, were included. PRISMA checklist and PRISMA flow diagram were used to adhere to best practice guidelines. Twenty-three articles, relating to 22 studies, met the inclusion criteria. Two principal themes were identified: 'screening for postnatal depression and anxiety' and 'factors that influence postnatal depression and anxiety management'. Subthemes in the former related to attitudes toward screening, routine screening practice, screening efficacy, and attitudes toward the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Subthemes in the latter included availability of formal care pathways, referral options, knowledge and confidence, and multiagency collaboration. While maternal and child health nurses value their role in identifying and supporting mothers at risk of postnatal depression and anxiety, certain in idual and organisational factors contribute to a gap between best practice and clinical practice. Narrowing the gap between evidence and practice is unlikely without directly addressing these barriers. Gaps in maternal and child health nurses' knowledge, skills and confidence regarding effective screening and management of mothers experiencing, or at risk of, postnatal depression and anxiety, impacts the quality of care provided. Ongoing training and professional development which adequately addresses these gaps is required.
Development of white matter fibre density and morphology over childhood: a longitudinal fixel-based analysis
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 19-06-2018
DOI: 10.1101/342097
Abstract: White matter fibre development in childhood involves dynamic changes to microstructural organisation driven by increasing axon diameter, density, and myelination. However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies that have quantified advanced diffusion metrics to identify regions of accelerated fibre maturation, particularly across the early pubertal period. We applied a novel longitudinal fixel-based analysis (FBA) framework, in order to estimate microscopic and macroscopic white matter changes over time. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) data were acquired for 59 typically developing children (27 female) aged 9 – 13 years at two time-points approximately 16 months apart (time-point 1: 10.4 ± 0.4 years, time-point 2: 11.7 ± 0.5 years). Whole brain FBA was performed using the connectivity-based fixel enhancement method, to assess longitudinal changes in fibre microscopic density and macroscopic morphological measures, and how these changes are affected by sex, pubertal stage, and pubertal progression. Follow-up analyses were performed in sub-regions of the corpus callosum to confirm the main findings using a Bayesian repeated measures approach. There was a statistically significant increase in fibre density over time localised to medial and posterior commissural and association fibres, including the forceps major and bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus. Increases in fibre cross-section were substantially more widespread. The rate of fibre development was not associated with age or sex. In addition, there was no significant relationship between pubertal stage or progression and longitudinal fibre development over time. Follow-up Bayesian analyses were performed to confirm the findings, which supported the null effect of the longitudinal pubertal comparison. Using a novel longitudinal fixel-based analysis framework, we demonstrate that white matter fibre density and fibre cross-section increased within a 16-month scan rescan period in specific regions. The observed increases might reflect increasing axonal diameter or axon count. Pubertal stage or progression did not influence the rate of fibre development in the early stages of puberty. Future work should focus on quantifying these measures across a wider age range to capture the full spectrum of fibre development across the pubertal period.
Implementation of Evidence-Based Programs within an Australian Place-Based Initiative for Children: a Qualitative Study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-01-2022
Couple Communication in Stepfamilies
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-11-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1545-5300.2007.00226.X
Abstract: Effective communication is assumed to help sustain couple relationships and is a key focus of most relationship education programs. We assessed couple problem-solving communication in 65 stepfamily and 52 first-time-marrying couples, with each group stratified into high risk and low risk for relationship problems based on family-of-origin experiences. Relative to partners in first-time couples, partners in stepfamily couples were less positive, less negative, and more likely to withdraw from discussion. Risk was associated with communication in first-time but not stepfamily couples. Stepfamily couples do not exhibit the negative communication evident in high-risk first-time-marrying couples, and available relationship education programs that focus on reducing negative communication are unlikely to meet the needs of stepfamilies.
What Influences Parents’ Fear about Children’s Independent Mobility? Evidence from a State-Wide Survey of Australian Parents
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 22-11-2017
Abstract: To identify factors associated with generalized and stranger-specific parental fear (PF) about children’s independent mobility (CIM), a critical aspect of physical activity. Cross-sectional survey random s ling frame, minimum quotas of fathers, rural residents. State of Victoria, Australia. Parents of children aged 9 to 15 years (n = 1779), 71% response rate. Validated measures of PF and fear of strangers (FoS) parent, child, social, and environmental factors. Unadjusted and adjusted linear regression stratified by child age (9-10 11-13 14-15). Adjusted models explained a substantial proportion of variance across all age groups (PF: 33.6%-36.7% FoS: 39.1%-44.0%). Perceived disapproval from others was consistently associated with both outcomes (PF: β =.11 to 23, p ≤ .05 FoS: β =.17-.21, p ≤ .001) as was parents’ perception of children’s competence to travel safely (PF: β = −.24 to −.11, p ≤ .05 FoS: β = −.16 to −.13, p ≤ .01). Factors associated with FoS included having a female child (β = −.21 to −.13, p ≤ .001), language other than English (β = .09 to.11, p ≤ .01), and low levels of parent education (β = −.14 to −08, p ≤ .05). The current study suggests that social norms, child competence, and perceptions about the benefits of CIM underpin PF. This evidence informs the development of interventions to reduce PF and promote CIM and children’s physical activity.
Intimate partner violence and maternal mental health ten years after a first birth: An Australian prospective cohort study of first-time mothers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2019.11.015
Abstract: We aimed to assess the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and maternal mental health ten years after a first birth METHODS: 1507 first-time mothers completed questionnaires at 3, 6, 12 and 18 months postpartum and 4 and ten years post the index birth. Exposure to IPV was assessed using the Composite Abuse Scale at 1, 4 and ten years. Standardised measures of depressive (CES-D), anxiety (BAI) and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PCL-C) were completed at ten-year follow-up. One in three (34%) women experienced IPV between the birth of their first child and their child turning 10. For the one in six women (18.6%) who experienced IPV in the year prior to ten-year follow-up, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was 38.9% compared with 14.2% for women who never reported IPV (adjusted odds ratio [AdjOR] 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9-4.5). Prevalence of anxiety symptoms was 28.1% compared with 8.5% (AdjOR 3.4, 95% CI 2.0-5.9) and prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms was 41.9% compared with 11.3% (AdjOR 4.9, 95% CI 3.0-7.9). Mental health symptoms and exposure to IPV were assessed by self-report and may be subject to misclassification bias as a result of non-disclosure. The high prevalence of mental health symptoms among women exposed to IPV in the ten years after giving birth coupled with the extent of post-traumatic stress symptoms and co-morbid mental health symptoms reinforce the need to provide appropriate care and referral pathways to women in the decade after having a baby. Recognition of the context of IPV and nature of mental health concerns is needed in tailoring responses.
Development of white matter fibre density and morphology over childhood: A longitudinal fixel-based analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUROIMAGE.2018.08.043
Abstract: White matter fibre development in childhood involves dynamic changes to microstructural organisation driven by increasing axon diameter, density, and myelination. However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies that have quantified advanced diffusion metrics to identify regions of accelerated fibre maturation, particularly across the early pubertal period. We applied a novel longitudinal fixel-based analysis (FBA) framework, in order to estimate microscopic and macroscopic white matter changes over time. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) data were acquired for 59 typically developing children (27 female) aged 9-13 years at two time-points approximately 16 months apart (time-point 1: 10.4 ± 0.4 years, time-point 2: 11.7 ± 0.5 years). Whole brain FBA was performed using the connectivity-based fixel enhancement method, to assess longitudinal changes in fibre microscopic density and macroscopic morphological measures, and how these changes are related to sex, pubertal stage, and pubertal progression. Follow-up analyses were performed in sub-regions of the corpus callosum to confirm the main findings using a Bayesian repeated measures approach. There was a statistically significant increase in fibre density over time localised to medial and posterior commissural and association fibres, including the forceps major and bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus. Increases in fibre cross-section were substantially more widespread. The rate of fibre development was not associated with age or sex. In addition, there was no significant relationship between pubertal stage or progression and longitudinal fibre development over time. Follow-up Bayesian analyses were performed to confirm the findings, which supported the null effect of the longitudinal pubertal comparison. Using a novel longitudinal fixel-based analysis framework, we demonstrate that white matter fibre density and fibre cross-section increased within a 16-month scan rescan period in specific regions. The observed increases might reflect increasing axonal diameter or axon count. Pubertal stage or progression did not influence the rate of fibre development in the early stages of puberty. Future work should focus on quantifying these measures across a wider age range to capture the full spectrum of fibre development across the pubertal period.
Does flexible work ‘work’ in Australia? A survey of employed mothers’ and fathers’ work, family and health
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-2020
Comorbidity and correlates of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder in 6–8-year-old children with ADHD
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-06-2016
Community‐based healthcare costs for children born low birthweight, preterm and/or small for gestational age: data from the L ongitudinal S tudy of A ustralian C
Publisher:
Wiley
Date:
05-03-2013
DOI:
10.1111/CCH.12040
Abstract: Children born low birthweight, preterm and/or small for gestational age (SGA) sustain substantially increased costs for hospital-based health care and additional educational support in the first few years of life. This is the first study internationally to investigate costs beyond hospital care, to community-based health care and prescription medicines across early and middle childhood with actual cost data, and to examine these costs according to the severity of perinatal risk. In the prospective Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, we followed two cohorts of children from age of 0 to 5 years (no increased perinatal risk, n = 3973 mild risk, n = 442 and moderate-to-high risk, n = 297), and from age of 4 to 9 years (no increased perinatal risk, n = 3629 mild risk, n = 465 and moderate-to-high risk, n = 361). Children were defined as mild risk if born 32-36 weeks, with birthweight 1500-2499 g, and/or SGA (<5-9th percentile), and moderate-to-high risk if born <32 weeks, birthweight <1500 g and/or extremely SGA (<5th percentile). Federal government expenditure (2011 $AUD) on healthcare attendances and prescription medication from birth to 9 years were calculated via data linkage to the Australian Medicare records. Mean costs per child were A$362 higher (95% CI $156 568) from 0 to 5 years and A$306 higher (95% CI $137 475) from 4 to 9 years, for children with any compared with no increased perinatal risk (P < 0.001). At the population level, an additional A$32m was spent per year for children 0-9 years with any relative to no increased perinatal risk. Perinatal risk is a major public health issue conferring considerable additional expense to community-based health care, most marked in the first year of life but persisting up to at least 10 years. Even without additionally considering burden, these findings add to the urgency of identifying effective mechanisms to reduce perinatal risk across its full spectrum.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-03-2013
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12040
Abstract: Children born low birthweight, preterm and/or small for gestational age (SGA) sustain substantially increased costs for hospital-based health care and additional educational support in the first few years of life. This is the first study internationally to investigate costs beyond hospital care, to community-based health care and prescription medicines across early and middle childhood with actual cost data, and to examine these costs according to the severity of perinatal risk. In the prospective Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, we followed two cohorts of children from age of 0 to 5 years (no increased perinatal risk, n = 3973 mild risk, n = 442 and moderate-to-high risk, n = 297), and from age of 4 to 9 years (no increased perinatal risk, n = 3629 mild risk, n = 465 and moderate-to-high risk, n = 361). Children were defined as mild risk if born 32-36 weeks, with birthweight 1500-2499 g, and/or SGA (<5-9th percentile), and moderate-to-high risk if born <32 weeks, birthweight <1500 g and/or extremely SGA (<5th percentile). Federal government expenditure (2011 $AUD) on healthcare attendances and prescription medication from birth to 9 years were calculated via data linkage to the Australian Medicare records. Mean costs per child were A$362 higher (95% CI $156 568) from 0 to 5 years and A$306 higher (95% CI $137 475) from 4 to 9 years, for children with any compared with no increased perinatal risk (P < 0.001). At the population level, an additional A$32m was spent per year for children 0-9 years with any relative to no increased perinatal risk. Perinatal risk is a major public health issue conferring considerable additional expense to community-based health care, most marked in the first year of life but persisting up to at least 10 years. Even without additionally considering burden, these findings add to the urgency of identifying effective mechanisms to reduce perinatal risk across its full spectrum.
Healthcare costs associated with language difficulties up to 9 years of age: Australian population-based study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-05-2014
DOI: 10.3109/17549507.2014.898095
Abstract: This study aimed to quantify the non-hospital healthcare costs associated with language difficulties within two nationally representative s les of children. Data were from three biennial waves (2004-2008) of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (B cohort: 0-5 years K cohort: 4-9 years). Language difficulties were defined as scores ≤ 1.25 SD below the mean on measures of parent-reported communication (0-3 years) and directly assessed vocabulary (4-9 years). Participant data were linked to administrative data on non-hospital healthcare attendances and prescription medications from the universal Australian Medicare subsidized healthcare scheme. It was found that healthcare costs over each 2-year age band were higher for children with than without language difficulties at 0-1, 2-3, and 4-5 years, notably 36% higher (mean difference = $AU206, 95% CI = $90, $321) at 4-5 years (B cohort). The slightly higher 2-year healthcare costs for children with language difficulties at 6-7 and 8-9 years were not statistically different from those without language difficulties. Modelled to the corresponding Australian child population, 2-year government costs ranged from $AU1.2-$AU12.1 million (depending on age examined). Six-year healthcare costs increased with the persistence of language difficulties in the K cohort, with total Medicare costs increasing by $192 (95% CI = $74, $311 p = .002) for each additional wave of language difficulties. Language difficulties (whether transient or persistent) were associated with substantial excess population healthcare costs in childhood, which are in addition to the known broader costs incurred through the education system. It is unclear whether healthcare costs were specifically due to the assessment and/or treatment of language difficulties, as opposed to conditions that may be co-morbid with or may cause language difficulties.
Association between maternal depressive symptoms in the early post-natal period and responsiveness in feeding at child age 2 years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2015
DOI: 10.1111/MCN.12116
Experience of stress in parents of children with ADHD: A qualitative study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2019
Predicting Married and Cohabiting Couples' Futures From Their Descriptions of Stepfamily Life
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1037/A0024538
Abstract: Stepfamily couples experience specific challenges early in their relationships, (e.g., reaching agreement on the role of the stepparent in parenting). The Oral History Interview for Stepfamilies (OHI-S) was developed to assess spouses' cognitive representations of their adaptation to these challenges. It was hypothesized that their responses would predict future relationship satisfaction and stability. One-hundred and 22 stepfamily couples completed the OHI-S and were assessed on relationship satisfaction and stability at Time 1 and 2.5 years later (Time 2). Time 2 relationship satisfaction and stability were both predicted by the OHI-S at Time 1. Couples' perceptions of the stepfamily and couple relationship predict separation, and suggest there is an opportunity for early intervention to enhance stepfamily couple relationships.
Early childhood profiles of sleep problems and self‐regulation predict later school adjustment
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-02-2016
DOI: 10.1111/BJEP.12109
Abstract: Children's sleep problems and self-regulation problems have been independently associated with poorer adjustment to school, but there has been limited exploration of longitudinal early childhood profiles that include both indicators. This study explores the normative developmental pathway for sleep problems and self-regulation across early childhood and investigates whether departure from the normative pathway is associated with later social-emotional adjustment to school. This study involved 2,880 children participating in the Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) - Infant Cohort from Wave 1 (0-1 years) to Wave 4 (6-7 years). Mothers reported on children's sleep problems, emotional, and attentional self-regulation at three time points from birth to 5 years. Teachers reported on children's social-emotional adjustment to school at 6-7 years. Latent profile analysis was used to establish person-centred longitudinal profiles. Three profiles were found. The normative profile (69%) had consistently average or higher emotional and attentional regulation scores and sleep problems that steadily reduced from birth to 5 years. The remaining 31% of children were members of two non-normative self-regulation profiles, both characterized by escalating sleep problems across early childhood and below mean self-regulation. Non-normative group membership was associated with higher teacher-reported hyperactivity and emotional problems, and poorer classroom self-regulation and prosocial skills. Early childhood profiles of self-regulation that include sleep problems offer a way to identify children at risk of poor school adjustment. Children with escalating early childhood sleep problems should be considered an important target group for school transition interventions.
Erratum to: The Role of Practitioner Self-Efficacy, Training, Program and Workplace Factors on the Implementation of an Evidence-Based Parenting Intervention in Primary Care
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-09-2014
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