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Giordano F, Salimbeni CT, Jefferies P. The Tutor of Resilience Program with Children Who Have Experienced Maltreatment: Mothers' Involvement Matters. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:295-307. [PMID: 35916984 PMCID: PMC10891266 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01393-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Resilience is a dynamic process involving the presence and interaction of personal and environmental factors that modify the impact of adversity. Resilience-building interventions are therefore important for improving trauma-related outcomes in children and caregivers exposed to adversity. This study examines the impact of the Tutor of Resilience (TOR) program on beneficiaries' trauma-related symptoms and on mother-child interactions in a group of children exposed to maltreatment (N = 186; mean age = 11.95; SD = 2.50). Assessments were completed at baseline and post-intervention. RM-ANOVAs indicated significant improvements for most trauma symptoms (anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and disassociation, but not depression) in the intervention group relative to a control group (N = 88; mean age = 10.76; SD = 2.57), and indicated further improvements to anxiety and dissociation for the intervention group when mothers were involved. Mother-child interactions also improved over time, as did their overall trauma symptoms and distress. Findings support the effectiveness of the ToR, especially when involving mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Giordano
- Department of Psychology - Resilience Research Unit, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Largo Gemelli 1, Milan, MI, 20121, Italy.
| | - C Taurelli Salimbeni
- Department of Psychology - Resilience Research Unit, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Largo Gemelli 1, Milan, MI, 20121, Italy
| | - P Jefferies
- Family and Community Resilience, Canada Research Chair in Child, Resilience Research Centre Dalhousie University, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H4R2, Canada
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Taussig HN, Fulginiti A, Racz SJ, Evans R, Cary Katz C. Long-term impact of the Fostering Healthy Futures for Preteens program on suicide-related thoughts and behaviors for youth in out-of-home care: A randomized controlled trial. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38436484 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Youth in out-of-home care are at high risk for suicide-related thoughts and behaviors (STB), yet there are no known efficacious interventions that reduce STB for this population. Fostering Healthy Futures for Preteens (FHF-P) is a 9-month community-based mentoring and skills training preventive intervention for children in out-of-home care. A randomized controlled trial enrolled 156 participants aged 9-11 years who were placed in out-of-home care over the prior year. Participants were 48.9% female, 54.1% Hispanic, 30.1% Black, and 27.1% American Indian. Follow-up interviews, conducted 7-12 years postintervention (85.2% retention rate), asked young adult participants, aged 18-22, to self-report lifetime STB as indexed by non-suicidal self-injury, suicidal thoughts, plans, and/or attempts. There was a nonsignificant reduction in the odds of STB for the intervention group at follow-up (OR = 0.74; CI, 0.32, 1.69). However, FHF-P significantly moderated the effect of baseline STB; control youth who reported baseline STB had 10 times the odds of young adult STB (OR = 10.44, CI, 2.28, 47.78), but there was no increase in the odds of adult-reported STB for intervention youth. Findings suggest that FHF-P buffers the impact of pre-existing STB on young adult STB for care-experienced youth. Further research is needed to identify mechanisms that may reduce STB in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather N Taussig
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Kempe Center, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Anthony Fulginiti
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarah J Racz
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Rhiannon Evans
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Colleen Cary Katz
- Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College, CUNY, New York, New York, USA
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Trubey R, Evans R, McDonald S, Noyes J, Robling M, Willis S, Boffey M, Wooders C, Vinnicombe S, Melendez-Torres GJ. Effectiveness of Mental Health and Wellbeing Interventions for Children and Young People in Foster, Kinship, and Residential Care: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024:15248380241227987. [PMID: 38362816 DOI: 10.1177/15248380241227987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people who have been in care, primarily foster care, kinship care or residential care, remains a public health priority. The Care-experienced cHildren and young people's Interventions to improve Mental health and wEll-being outcomes Systematic review (CHIMES) synthesized evidence for the effectiveness of interventions targeting: subjective wellbeing; mental, behavioral and neurodevelopmental disorders; and suicide-related outcomes. Searches were conducted in 16 bibliographic databases and 22 websites between 1990 and 2022. This was supplemented by citation tracking, screening of relevant systematic reviews, and expert recommendation. We identified 35 interventions, with 44 evaluations via randomized controlled trials. Through meta-analyses, we found that interventions have a small beneficial impact on a variety of mental health outcomes in the short term (0-6 months). Interventions improved total social, emotional, and behavioral problems (d = -0.15, 95% CI [-0.28, -0.02]), social-emotional functioning difficulties (d = -0.18, 95% CI [-0.31, -0.05]), externalizing problem behaviors (d = -0.30, 95% CI [-0.53, -0.08]), internalizing problem behaviors (d = -0.35, 95% CI [-0.61, -0.08]); and depression and anxiety (d = -0.26, 95% CI [-0.40, -0.13]). Interventions did not demonstrate any effectiveness for outcomes assessed in the longer term (>6 months). Certainty of effectiveness was limited by risk of bias and imprecision. There was limited available evidence for interventions targeting subjective wellbeing and suicide-related outcomes. Future intervention design and delivery must ensure that programs are sufficient to activate causal mechanisms and facilitate change. Evaluation research should use a robust methodology.PROSPERO Registration: CRD42020177478.
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Teculeasa F, Golu F, Gorbănescu A. The Effectiveness of Psychological Interventions on the Impact of Trauma Exposure in Foster Care: A Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2023; 16:917-932. [PMID: 38045839 PMCID: PMC10689601 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-023-00563-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Due to prevalent exposure to trauma in the biological family, children in foster care often experience post-traumatic stress symptoms, difficulties in forming secure attachments with the caregivers, and can present a complex range of symptoms and impairments across several areas of development. Therefore, there is an increased necessity for interventions on the effects of trauma exposure in foster care. This is the first meta-analysis to investigate the effectiveness of interventions on the effects of trauma exposure in foster care against control groups. Twelve randomized controlled trials on interventions for children with trauma-related diagnoses or with other mental health problems that are a result of complex trauma were included. A random-effects model was used for pooling the effect sizes, which were calculated for trauma-related outcomes at posttreatment and follow-up. Several potential moderator variables were analyzed. The results showed that participants receiving the intervention on trauma-related problems reported significantly better outcomes than those in the control conditions at posttreatment, after the exclusion of one outlier (g = 0.39; 95% CI [0.18 to 0.62]). The effect size was smaller at follow-up (g = 0.24; 95% CI [0.03 to 0.46]), but significant. Clinical diversity, methodological diversity, as well as other limitations were identified and discussed. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of interventions for trauma-related problems in foster care. These findings bring important contributions to the child welfare system in their efforts to develop and adapt suitable interventions for children with mental health problems due to trauma. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40653-023-00563-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Teculeasa
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Bucharest, 90 Panduri Street, 50663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florinda Golu
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Bucharest, 90 Panduri Street, 50663 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adrian Gorbănescu
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Bucharest, 90 Panduri Street, 50663 Bucharest, Romania
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Hagler MA, Jones KV, Anderson AJ, McQuillin SD, Weiler LM, Sánchez B. Striving for safety, impact, and equity: A critical consideration of AJCP publications on formal youth mentoring programs. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 72:258-270. [PMID: 37807945 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
In this virtual special issue (VSI) we curate and reflect upon 22 articles on formal youth mentoring previously published in the American Journal of Community Psychology (AJCP). First, we provide historical context and highlight AJCP's 2002 special issue on mentoring, which played an important role in establishing youth mentoring as a vibrant area of research. Next, we review and discuss findings from subsequent AJCP studies in three interrelated lines of inquiry: (1) the importance of facilitating high-quality mentoring relationships; (2) associations among youth's presenting needs, relationship quality, and outcomes; and (3) program practices leading to stronger, more impactful relationships. Throughout, we highlight and expand upon critical commentary from AJCP contributors, calling on the field to move away from paternalistic models that overly localize risk with youth and families without interrogating structural oppression. Our recommendations include: (1) centering critical consciousness, racial equity, and social justice in program curricula and mentor trainings; (2) respectfully engaging grassroots programs developed for and by communities of color that are underrepresented in research; (3) making meaningful efforts to recruit mentors from marginalized communities and removing barriers to their participation; and (4) examining youth's racial, ethnic, and other areas of identity development processes during mentoring.
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Hambrick E, Lee SK, Weiler L, Collins JO, Rhodes T, Taussig H. Engagement in a Preventive Intervention for Preadolescent Children in Foster Care: Considerations for Intervention Design. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023; 54:1373-1385. [PMID: 35303199 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01341-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Engagement in mental health-focused preventive interventions is understudied. Demographic, child, and system-level predictors of engagement were explored in a study with children in foster care (N = 222, Mage = 10.3) who participated in a 30-week intervention. Attendance and engagement in mentor visits and skills groups were rated weekly. Only 4 of 21 predictors showed bivariate associations with attendance/engagement: child sex, IQ, behavior problems, and trauma symptoms. SEM models with these three variables and a measure of adverse childhood experience (ACEs), were used to develop a model of engagement. Males had poorer mentor visit and group engagement. Group attendance was positively associated with trauma symptoms and negatively associated with ACEs. Group engagement was associated with higher IQ and fewer behavior problems. A contextually-sensitive intervention can result in high engagement for a vulnerable and diverse population, yet a few child factors still impacted engagement, and when identified could be ameliorated.Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifiers: NCT00809315 & NCT00810056.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Hambrick
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, 5030 Cherry St, Cherry Hall Room 309, Kansas City, MO, 64110, USA.
| | - Sun-Kyung Lee
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Lindsey Weiler
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Jen O Collins
- Department of Psychology, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Tara Rhodes
- Colorado Department of Education, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Heather Taussig
- University of Denver - Graduate School of Social Work, Denver, CO, USA
- University of Colorado - Kempe Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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Evans R, MacDonald S, Trubey R, Noyes J, Robling M, Willis S, Boffey M, Wooders C, Vinnicombe S, Melendez-Torres GJ. Interventions targeting the mental health and wellbeing of care-experienced children and young people in higher-income countries: Evidence map and systematic review. Syst Rev 2023; 12:111. [PMID: 37393358 PMCID: PMC10315047 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02260-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mental health and wellbeing of care-experienced children and young people (i.e. foster care, kinship care, residential care) is poorer than non-care-experienced populations. The Care-experienced cHildren and young people's Interventions to improve Mental health and wEll-being outcomes Systematic review (CHIMES) aimed to synthesise the international evidence base for interventions targeting subjective wellbeing, mental health and suicide amongst care-experienced young people aged ≤ 25 years. METHODS For the first phase of the review, we constructed an evidence map identifying key clusters and gaps in interventions and evaluations. Studies were identified through 16 electronic databases and 22 health and social care websites, in addition to expert recommendations, citation tracking and screening of relevant systematic reviews. We charted interventions and evaluations with a summary narrative, tables and infographics. RESULTS In total, 64 interventions with 124 associated study reports were eligible. The majority of study reports were from the USA (n = 77). Interventions primarily targeted children and young people's skills and competencies (n = 9 interventions), the parental functioning and practices of carers (n = 26), or a combination of the two (n = 15). While theoretically under-specified, interventions were largely informed by theories of Attachment, Positive Youth Development, and Social Learning Theory. Current evaluations prioritised outcomes (n = 86) and processes (n = 50), with a paucity of study reports including theoretical descriptions (n = 24) or economic evaluations (n = 1). Interventions most frequently targeted outcomes related to mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders, notably total social, emotional and behavioural problems (n = 48 interventions) and externalising problem behaviours (n = 26). There were a limited number of interventions targeting subjective wellbeing or suicide-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Future intervention development might focus on structural-level intervention theories and components, and target outcomes related to subjective wellbeing and suicide. In accordance with current methodological guidance for intervention development and evaluation, research needs to integrate theoretical, outcome, process and economic evaluation in order to strengthen the evidence base. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020177478.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon Evans
- DECIPHer, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, SPARK, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
| | - Sarah MacDonald
- DECIPHer, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, SPARK, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Rob Trubey
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jane Noyes
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | | | - Simone Willis
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Maria Boffey
- DECIPHer, School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, SPARK, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | | | - Soo Vinnicombe
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - G J Melendez-Torres
- Peninsula Technology Assessment Group (PenTAG), University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Jackson AL, Frederico M, Cleak H, Perry BD. Interventions to Support Children's Recovery From Neglect-A Systematic Review. CHILD MALTREATMENT 2023:10775595231171617. [PMID: 37084409 DOI: 10.1177/10775595231171617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Earlier reviews to discover research on interventions for children after neglect have concluded little was available, despite the well-documented prevalence and harmful effects of neglect on children. We revisited this question through a systematic literature review to discover the state of research on interventions for children who have experienced neglect. We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ERIC, Sociological Abstracts and EMBASE for studies published between 2003 and 2021. Studies were included if neglect could be distinguished, and child outcomes reported. Eight reports describing six studies about six interventions were identified. These studies differed in interventions, age-groups, definitions of neglect, and outcomes. Four studies reported positive child outcomes though with varying degree of quality. More research is needed to inform a coherent theory of change following neglect. There remains an urgent need for research on interventions to help children recover from neglect.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Jackson
- Social Work, La Trobe University School of Allied Health, Bundoora, AU-VIC, Australia
| | - M Frederico
- Social Work, La Trobe University School of Allied Health, Bundoora, AU-VIC, Australia
| | - H Cleak
- Social Work, La Trobe University School of Allied Health, Bundoora, AU-VIC, Australia
| | - B D Perry
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Muentner L, Stone KJ, Davis L, Shlafer R. Youth at the intersection of parental incarceration and foster care: Examining prevalence, disparities, and mental health. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 134:105910. [PMID: 36182827 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there are various pathways by which children experience parental incarceration or foster care, involvement in either system is associated with adverse health outcomes. Despite co-occurring risk factors for parental incarceration and foster care, little is known about the prevalence or characteristics of youth navigating both of these experiences. OBJECTIVES This study details the prevalence of youth at the intersection of parental incarceration and foster care, their demographic characteristics, and heterogeneity in their mental health. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Data come from the 2019 Minnesota Student Survey with 112,157 eighth-, ninth-, and eleventh-grade students. METHODS Logistic regression with interactions between parental incarceration and foster care predict associated odds of youth's anxiety and depression; self-injurious behavior, suicidal ideation and attempt; and mental health diagnoses and treatment. RESULTS Nearly 2 % of students experienced both parental incarceration and foster care, with a disproportionate number of those identifying as youth of color, experiencing poverty, and/or living in rural communities. Both parental incarceration and foster care were separately linked with poor mental health, yet experiencing both was associated with higher odds of anxiety, depression, self-injury, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, diagnosis, and treatment. Youth with proximal multiplicative exposure (recent foster care and current parental incarceration) reported the most adverse mental health symptoms. CONCLUSION The study emboldens what is known about the inequitable distribution of parental incarceration and foster care. These findings highlight the association between dual-systems-impacted youth and mental health indicators, with important implications for increasing access to mental health services while simultaneously calling for systems change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Muentner
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota, United States of America.
| | - Katie J Stone
- Division of Clinical Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Laurel Davis
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Shlafer
- Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota, United States of America
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Weiler LM, Lee SK, Zhang J, Ausherbauer K, Schwartz SEO, Kanchewa SS, Taussig HN. Mentoring Children in Foster Care: Examining Relationship Histories as Moderators of Intervention Impact on Children's Mental Health and Trauma Symptoms. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 69:100-113. [PMID: 34312883 PMCID: PMC8789940 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Mentoring-based interventions show promise among children in foster care, but previous research suggests that some benefit more than others. Because children in foster care experience relationship disruptions that could affect mentoring effectiveness, we examined whether children's relational histories at baseline (i.e., relationship quality with birth parents, relationship quality with foster parents, caregiver instability, and previous mentoring experience) moderated the impact of a mentoring intervention on children's mental health, trauma symptoms, and quality of life. Participants included 426 racially and ethnically diverse children (age: 9-11; 52% male) who participated in a randomized controlled trial of the Fostering Healthy Futures program (FHF), a 9-month one-to-one mentoring and skills group intervention. Results showed that relationship quality with foster parents and prior mentoring experience did not moderate intervention impact. Relationship quality with birth parents and caregiver instability pre-program, however, moderated the effect on some outcomes. The impact on quality of life was stronger for children with weaker birth parent relationships and fewer caregiver changes. Likewise, the impact on trauma symptoms was stronger for those with fewer caregiver changes. Overall, FHF seems to positively impact children with varied relational histories, yet some may derive more benefits - particularly those with fewer caregiver changes pre-program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey M Weiler
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
- Institute for Translational Research in Children's Mental Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sun-Kyung Lee
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Jingchen Zhang
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Kadie Ausherbauer
- Institute for Translational Research in Children's Mental Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Minnesota Trauma Recovery Institute, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Stella S Kanchewa
- Department of Psychology, Bellarmine University, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Heather N Taussig
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
- Kempe Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
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[Framework for a Group Intervention Aiming at Coping with out-of-home Placement - Focus Groups in Residential Foster Homes]. Prax Kinderpsychol Kinderpsychiatr 2022; 71:55-71. [PMID: 35023816 DOI: 10.13109/prkk.2022.71.1.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Out-of-home placement is a critical life event for affected children and adolescents. We explored the potential content and conditions for a group intervention aiming at coping with this critical life event by the means of three focus groups with n = 13 participants. The participants reported feelings of guilt, uncertainty concerning their future, experiences of loss, and lack of confidence. So far, standardized programs for sharing the participants' out-of-home care experiences had not been established in their child welfare programs. Under certain circumstances, the participants were willing to take part in a group intervention for this purpose. The intervention should aim at the autobiographical integration of the out-of-home placement as well as the promotion of general protection factors. Further qualitative research is needed to adjust the intervention in order to fit the needs of the target population.
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Draxler JM, Ruppar TM. Treatment Adherence in Adolescents With Histories of Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Systematic Review. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2021; 60:11-18. [PMID: 34846229 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20211118-04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poor treatment adherence and worse health outcomes among adults, but evidence among adolescents is less clear. The current systematic review identified and synthesized results from studies examining associations between ACEs and treatment adherence among adolescents. An expert medical librarian conducted searches in seven databases. Results were analyzed using a narrative synthesis framework. A total of six studies were eligible for review. Assessment strategies for ACEs and treatment adherence varied across studies. Most studies assessed for histories of maltreatment and neglect. Treatment adherence was most often defined as some form of attendance in a treatment program. Results support a relationship between ACEs and treatment nonadherence in adolescents. ACEs related to maltreatment, particularly emotional abuse, may be more predictive of treatment nonadherence than other types of ACEs. Specific qualities of ACEs (e.g., timing, intensity, frequency) may influence the relationship between ACEs and treatment nonadherence. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(xx), xx-xx.].
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Taussig HN, Dmitrieva J, Garrido EF, Cooley JL, Crites E. Fostering Healthy Futures Preventive Intervention for Children in Foster Care: Long-term Delinquency Outcomes from a Randomized Controlled Trial. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2021; 22:1120-1133. [PMID: 33905053 PMCID: PMC8541930 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-021-01235-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Child maltreatment and foster care placement are strong risk factors for delinquency and juvenile justice involvement, and there is substantial crossover between youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. This study examines the long-term impact of the Fostering Healthy Futures (FHF) program, a 30-week mentoring and skills group preventive intervention for preadolescent maltreated children in foster care. Participants included 426 children recently placed in out-of-home care who were randomized to intervention or control conditions. Outcomes included both self-reported delinquency, measured at multiple time points between 6 months and 12 years post-intervention, as well as court records of delinquency charges, which were measured for 7 consecutive years beginning 3 months after the intervention began. Results from multilevel models indicated that the intervention group self-reported 30-82% less total and non-violent delinquency than the control group between ages 14 and 18. Court charges for total and violent delinquency in mid-adolescence were also 15-30% lower for the intervention group. These findings indicate that a mentoring and skills training program in preadolescence can reduce delinquency and justice involvement for children who are at high risk for these outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather N Taussig
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, Denver, CO, 80208, USA.
- Kempe Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Julia Dmitrieva
- Department of Psychology , Frontier Hall, 2155 S. Race St, CO, 80208, Denver, USA
| | - Edward F Garrido
- Department of Psychology , Frontier Hall, 2155 S. Race St, CO, 80208, Denver, USA
| | - John L Cooley
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway, Lubbock, TX, 79409, USA
| | - Erin Crites
- Colorado State Court Administrator's Office, 1300 Broadway UNIT 1200, Denver, CO, 80203, USA
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Poon CYS, Christensen KM, Rhodes JE. A Meta-analysis of the Effects of Mentoring on Youth in Foster Care. J Youth Adolesc 2021; 50:1741-1756. [PMID: 34240254 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-021-01472-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that mentoring programs may promote a range of positive outcomes in youth populations. Less is known, however, about the extent to which such programs are effective in specialized youth populations, such as youth involved in the foster care system. The current study aimed to investigate the extent to which mentoring interventions promote positive outcomes among youth involved in the foster care system and to systematically explore factors that may moderate the effectiveness of mentoring interventions. Using a multilevel meta-analytic approach, this study estimated the effect size of nine formal mentoring programs in the United States serving youth involved with the foster care system (total n = 55,561). Analyses revealed a small-to-medium-sized overall effect (g = 0.342). Moderator analyses revealed weaker effects for studies containing higher proportions of youth with emotional abuse histories. Programs deploying near-peer mentors were more than twice as effective as intergenerational mentors. The findings highlight the salience of emotional abuse history, suggesting the utility of providing mentor trainings in trauma-informed care for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyanea Y S Poon
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kirsten M Christensen
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jean E Rhodes
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA, USA
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15
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Goldner L, Ben-Eliyahu A. Unpacking Community-Based Youth Mentoring Relationships: An Integrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115666. [PMID: 34070652 PMCID: PMC8198211 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Formal community-based youth mentoring relationships (CBM) are a popular form of intervention worldwide in which caring, non-parental adult figures are matched with at-risk children (i.e., children who experience an intense and/or chronic risk factor, or a combination of risk factors in personal, environmental and/or relational domains that prevent them from pursuing and fulfilling their potential) to promote development and health. Common models suggest that a close mentoring relationship is needed for the success of the intervention. However, it remains unclear which key relational processes and variables promote relationship quality to generate the most significant benefits. Using the PRISMA framework, 123 articles were identified as relevant for this review which explores the state of the literature on CBM relationships describing the main findings regarding the characteristics of the relationship and the mediating and moderating variables. An essential ingredient that consistently emerged for generating mentoring outcomes is characterized by feelings of support, sensitivity, and trust and accompanied by a purposeful approach to shaping the goals of the relationship. A balanced approach comprised of recreational, emotional, and catalyzing aspects has been reported as essential for mentoring success. Mentors’ positive attitudes toward underprivileged youth, maturity in terms of age and experience are essential in forging positive relationships. Mentees who have better relational histories and more positive personality traits exhibited higher relationship quality. However, data imply the possibility of addressing mentees from moderate risk status. Preliminary evidence on thriving as a mediating variable was found. Program practices, such as training, parental involvement, and matching based on perceived similarities and similar interests, emerged as important factors. Generating many research suggestions, the review identifies research questions and uncharted territories that require inquiry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Goldner
- The Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research Center, Faculty of Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Creative Arts Therapies, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
- Correspondence:
| | - Adar Ben-Eliyahu
- Department of Human Development and Counseling, Faculty of Education, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel;
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16
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Sage M, Jackson S. A Systematic Review of Internet Communication Technology Use by Youth in Foster Care. CHILD & ADOLESCENT SOCIAL WORK JOURNAL : C & A 2021; 39:375-390. [PMID: 33551546 PMCID: PMC7852468 DOI: 10.1007/s10560-021-00738-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This systematic narrative review of the literature reports on the experiences of foster youth regarding the use of Internet Communication Technologies (ICTs) such as social media, focusing only on studies that include youth voice. We searched seven databases for articles published internationally from 2010 to 2020 in which foster youth were interviewed regarding their beliefs about ICTs. Youth report benefits of ICTs including to their relationships and identity formation opportunities, and discuss risks of ICTs and how they manage them. ICTs may benefit positive youth development. Stakeholders may consider ways to assess and support healthy ICT use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Sage
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo SUNY, Buffalo, NY USA
| | - Sebrena Jackson
- School of Social Work, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
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17
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Herrenkohl TI, Mersky JP, Topitzes J. Applied and Translational Research on Trauma-Responsive Programs and Policy: Introduction to a Special Issue of the American Journal of Community Psychology. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2019; 64:281-285. [PMID: 31593311 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The special issue highlights work across systems that include child welfare, education, juvenile justice and health, as well as agencies serving adults who are at-risk for high levels of childhood and adult trauma exposure. While articles appearing in the special issue are not divided equally across these systems, they cover important and overlapping concepts within each. Some articles span more than a single system or domain of research, whereas others fit primarily within single area or domain. Articles provide new insights from research on practices, programs, and policies that help to transform systems so they are increasingly more responsive to the needs of vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd I Herrenkohl
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, MI, USA
| | - Joshua P Mersky
- Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - James Topitzes
- Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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