Caroline Heary - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Caroline Heary

Research paper thumbnail of Fitzgerald, Heary, Kelly, Nixon, & Shevlin, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of Self-efficacy for healthy eating and peer support for unhealthy eating are associated with adolescents’ food intake patterns

Appetite, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of The Effectiveness of Parents as Distraction Coaches during Venipuncture: A Randomised Controlled Trial (Pilot study)

Title: The effectiveness of parents as distraction coaches during venipuncture: a randomised cont... more Title: The effectiveness of parents as distraction coaches during venipuncture: a randomised controlled trial Abstract Background: To assess whether training parents as distraction coaches would increase the amount of distraction used by parents and reduce child pain and anxiety levels during venipuncture procedures. Method: 44 participants were assigned to either a distraction training (training booklet sent prior to procedure) or control condition. The distraction group were provided with an electronic tablet to distract their child during the procedure. Findings: Independent t-tests revealed significantly higher rates of parental use of distraction in the experimental group compared with the control group. Although no significant differences for child distress or pain were observed between groups, significantly higher levels of coping behaviours were found in the experimental group. Secondary analysis revealed significant correlations between higher rates of parental use of distr...

Research paper thumbnail of Fitzgerald, Heary, Kelly, Nixon, & Shevlin, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of Focus Groups Versus Individual Interviews with Children: A Comparison of Data

The Irish Journal of Psychology, 2006

In recent years there has been an increase in the use of qualitative data collection techniques i... more In recent years there has been an increase in the use of qualitative data collection techniques in research with children. Among the most common of these methods are focus groups and individual interviews. While many authors claim that focus groups have advantages over individual interviews, these claims have not been tested empirically with children. The present study reports on the use of focus groups and interviews to collect qualitative data from 116 children in three age groups, with mean ages of 8.4, 11.5 and 14.3 years. The children were randomly allocated to participate in either focus groups or individual interviews where they were presented with identical material and questions relating to their beliefs about peers with psychological disorders. In line with previous research, the interviews produced significantly more relevant and unique ideas about the causes of these disorders than the focus groups, but the latter gave rise to greater elaboration of ideas. The participating children showed no significant difference in their preference for one method over the other. Thus, whether to choose individual interviews or focus groups is likely to depend on the nature of the research question in any given study.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents’ beliefs about sources of help for ADHD and depression

Journal of Adolescence, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of The Development of Children’s Understanding of Common Psychological Problems

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2009

Background: The aim of the present study was to explore children’s beliefs about the causes of p... more Background: The aim of the present study was to explore children’s beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and their beliefs about potential sources of help for peers experiencing these problems. Despite its importance this is an area that has received relatively little attention from researchers.Methods: One hundred and sixteen children were read short vignettes in focus groups or individual interviews. The vignettes described the behaviour of hypothetical children with ADHD, conduct disorder and depression. Following each vignette children were asked questions about the likely causes of the behaviour and possible sources of help. A cross sectional research design was used with equal numbers of boys and girls of three age groups, the average age of the children in each group was: 8.4 years; 11.5 years and 14.3 years respectively.Results: Children of all ages were able to offer a range of explanations for the behaviour of the children described in the vignettes and these explanations varied systematically with age and the nature of the behaviour described. The majority of children believed that behaviour could change and that help to support change could be provided by family and friends.Conclusions: Results confirm and extend the findings of earlier studies that there are developmental changes in children’s understanding of some common psychological problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Children's understanding of psychological problems displayed by their peers: a review of the literature

Child Care Health and Development, 2007

Background There is a widespread consensus in the literature that children who have psychologica... more Background There is a widespread consensus in the literature that children who have psychological problems are more likely than other children to be excluded or rejected by their peers. The existence of this phenomenon has been established, primarily with the use of research on their sociometric status within groups of peers. Much less research has been performed on the way in which children develop attitudes and behavioural intentions towards peers with problems.Aims The primary aim of this article is to introduce readers to research on children's understanding of the nature of common childhood psychological problems, with a view to exploring the factors that might contribute to the development of negative attitudes and behaviour.Method Relevant publications were identified through searches of electronic databases and articles in print.Results From the early years of primary school, children are able to identify peers whose behaviour deviates from the norm and to suggest causes for the behaviour of peers with psychological problems. Furthermore, their beliefs about peers' personal responsibility for these problems appear to be a significant determinant of attitudes and behavioural intentions. The article identifies the need for more research on the role of factors such as gender and personal contact in determining children's understanding of, and attitudes towards, peers with psychological problems. In addition, the article calls for more research on mental health education programmes and the extension of these programmes to younger children, given the fact that even young primary school children appear to have beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and negative attitudes to peers who display such problems.Conclusions Research on children's understanding of mental health can make an important contribution to our understanding of why children with problems are so much more likely to be excluded from their peer group.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents' Explanations for the Exclusion of Peers With Mental Health Problems: An Insight Into Stigma

Journal of Adolescent Research

Young people with mental health problems are often excluded from their peer group; however, resea... more Young people with mental health problems are often excluded from their peer group; however, research has not specifically explored their peers’ explanations for this exclusion. Drawing on data from group interviews with Irish adolescents (N = 148), this study explores the reasons offered for rejecting young people with mental health problems. Such reasons include perceived violation of expectations of friendships, and perceived social and personal risks to members of the peer group. The implications of these findings for the development of interventions to combat the stigma of mental health problems are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents' beliefs about the fairness of exclusion of peers with mental health problems

Journal of adolescence, Jan 21, 2015

Stigma research suggests that exclusion of peers with mental health problems is acceptable, howev... more Stigma research suggests that exclusion of peers with mental health problems is acceptable, however, no research has explored young people's beliefs about the fairness of exclusion. Group interviews with 148 adolescents explored judgements about the fairness of excluding peers with ADHD or depression from dyads and groups. Young people evaluated exclusion of peers with ADHD or depression from dyads and groups, with the exception of group exclusion of the peer with ADHD, as mostly unfair. Beliefs about the fairness of exclusion were influenced by the attributions that they applied to the target peer's behaviour, social obligations and loyalty within friendships and concerns about the adverse psychological effects of exclusion. Furthermore, their evaluations were influenced by personal beliefs about the social and personal costs of including the target peer. Evaluations of exclusion highlight novel avenues for to develop knowledge on the stigma of mental health problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Retrospective Accounts of Self-Stigma Experienced by Young People With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Depression

Psychiatric rehabilitation journal, Jan 23, 2015

Little is known about self-stigma experienced by young people with mental health problems, despit... more Little is known about self-stigma experienced by young people with mental health problems, despite the fact that research has demonstrated its existence. In the present study, we sought to investigate the experiences of self-stigma in childhood and adolescence, and particularly the nature of change in self-stigma across this developmental period. Young adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or depression before their 18th birthdays were interviewed about their experiences within their peer groups during childhood and adolescence. This qualitative study involved open-ended interviews with 16 young adults aged 18-30 years. Interviews focused on the experience of stigmatization, responses to stigma, and how these changed over time. Three main themes pertaining to self-stigma emerged: (a) being different, (b) peer stigmatization and associated experiences of self-stigma, and (c) selective disclosure and a move toward greater openness. The findings also sug...

Research paper thumbnail of Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale: psychometric properties of a questionnaire for children and adolescents

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Children's Attributions about Psychological Problems in their Peers Scale

Research paper thumbnail of Beliefs About Causes and Sources of Help for Psychological Problems Vignettes

Research paper thumbnail of Factors associated with acceptance of peers with mental health problems in childhood and adolescence

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2011

Research suggests that children's reactio... more Research suggests that children's reactions to peers with mental health problems are related to the maintenance and outcomes of these problems. However, children's perceptions of such peers, particularly those with internalising problems, are neither well researched nor understood. The present study aimed to test a series of models relating socio-demographic and attributional variables to the acceptance of hypothetical boys and girls with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. A sample of 595 participants, drawn from five different age-groups spanning early childhood to late adolescence, completed a booklet of questions in response to two vignettes describing the behaviour of hypothetical target peers with depression and ADHD. The sample was drawn from schools randomly selected in the east of Ireland. The models indicated that age and gender of the participant, and the perceived responsibility of the target character for his/her condition, were the three most important predictors of acceptance in all models. However, the relationship between these variables and acceptance varied depending on the gender of the target child and the condition (depression or ADHD) in the models tested. The findings of the study suggest that the relationships between socio-demographic and attributional variables and acceptance of peers with mental health problems depend on the type of mental health problem under consideration. The findings have implications for the development of information and education programmes to improve the integration of children with mental health problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Explicit and implicit stigma towards peers with mental health problems in childhood and adolescence

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

Children and adolescents with mental health problems are widely reported to have problems with p... more Children and adolescents with mental health problems are widely reported to have problems with peer relationships; however, few studies have explored the way in which these children are regarded by their peers. For example, little is known about the nature of peer stigmatisation, and no published research has investigated implicit attitudes thus ensuring that stigma is not well understood. To address this issue, the current study explored patterns of explicit and implicit stigmatisation of peers with depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The sample was 385 children (M = 10.21 years) and adolescents (M = 15.36 years). Participants completed a questionnaire assessing explicit stigma towards an age- and gender-matched peer with ADHD or depression and another peer with 'normal issues' who were described in vignettes. They also completed a modified version of the implicit association test (IAT) that explored implicit attitudes towards the target peers. Questionnaire data indicated that the peer with ADHD was perceived more negatively than the peer with depression on all dimensions of stigma, except perceived dangerousness and fear. In contrast, the IAT findings suggest that some participants had more negative views of the peer with depression than the peer with ADHD. Specifically, the findings demonstrate that adolescent males demonstrated significantly stronger negative implicit evaluations of depression compared with younger males and adolescent females. Children and adolescents demonstrate stigmatising responses to peers with common mental health problems. The nature and extent of these responses depends on the type of problem and the type of measurement used. The findings highlight the importance of using both explicit and implicit measures of stigma.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents’ beliefs about sources of help for ADHD and depression

Journal of Adolescence, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Factors influencing the food choices of Irish children and adolescents: a qualitative investigation

Health Promotion International, 2010

Food choices established during childhood and adolescence tend to persist into adulthood with con... more Food choices established during childhood and adolescence tend to persist into adulthood with consequences for long-term health. Yet, to date, relatively little research has examined factors that influence the food choices of children and adolescents from their perspectives. In this article, previous research is extended by examining developmental differences between children's and adolescents' perceptions of factors influencing their food choices. Focus group discussions were conducted with 29 young people from three age groups (9-10, 13-14 and 16-18 years). An inductive thematic analysis identified three key factors as influencing food choices. These factors included intra-individual factors: the link between food preferences and awareness of healthy eating; intra-familial factors: the role of the home food environment; and extra-familial factors: eating away from the home. Findings indicate that there were developmental differences between children's and adolescents' perceptions of factors influencing food choice. Among adolescents, parental control began to diminish and adolescents exercised increased autonomy over their food choices compared with children. To develop effective nutrition interventions, it is important to gather child and adolescent input regarding factors perceived as influencing their food choices.

Research paper thumbnail of The Development of Children’s Understanding of Common Psychological Problems

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2009

Background: The aim of the present study was to explore childrenÕs beliefs about the causes of ps... more Background: The aim of the present study was to explore childrenÕs beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and their beliefs about potential sources of help for peers experiencing these problems. Despite its importance this is an area that has received relatively little attention from researchers. Methods: One hundred and sixteen children were read short vignettes in focus groups or individual interviews. The vignettes described the behaviour of hypothetical children with ADHD, conduct disorder and depression. Following each vignette children were asked questions about the likely causes of the behaviour and possible sources of help. A cross sectional research design was used with equal numbers of boys and girls of three age groups, the average age of the children in each group was: 8.4 years; 11.5 years and 14.3 years respectively. Results: Children of all ages were able to offer a range of explanations for the behaviour of the children described in the vignettes and these explanations varied systematically with age and the nature of the behaviour described. The majority of children believed that behaviour could change and that help to support change could be provided by family and friends. Conclusions: Results confirm and extend the findings of earlier studies that there are developmental changes in childrenÕs understanding of some common psychological problems.

Research paper thumbnail of First page preview

Psychology & Health, 2005

Skip to content. Taylor & Francis Online: Librarians; Authors & Editors; Societies. Register; Sig... more Skip to content. Taylor & Francis Online: Librarians; Authors & Editors; Societies. Register; Sign in; Mobile. Home; Browse; Products; Redeem a voucher; Shortlist; Shopping Cart Cart. The online platform for Taylor & Francis Group content. Search. Advanced Search Within current journal Entire site. Home > List of Issues > Table of Contents > Foreward. Browse journal. View all volumes and issues. Current issue. Forthcoming articles. Most read articles. Most cited articles. Authors and submissions. Instructions for authors. Submit online. Subscribe. Journal ...

Research paper thumbnail of Fitzgerald, Heary, Kelly, Nixon, & Shevlin, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of Self-efficacy for healthy eating and peer support for unhealthy eating are associated with adolescents’ food intake patterns

Appetite, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of The Effectiveness of Parents as Distraction Coaches during Venipuncture: A Randomised Controlled Trial (Pilot study)

Title: The effectiveness of parents as distraction coaches during venipuncture: a randomised cont... more Title: The effectiveness of parents as distraction coaches during venipuncture: a randomised controlled trial Abstract Background: To assess whether training parents as distraction coaches would increase the amount of distraction used by parents and reduce child pain and anxiety levels during venipuncture procedures. Method: 44 participants were assigned to either a distraction training (training booklet sent prior to procedure) or control condition. The distraction group were provided with an electronic tablet to distract their child during the procedure. Findings: Independent t-tests revealed significantly higher rates of parental use of distraction in the experimental group compared with the control group. Although no significant differences for child distress or pain were observed between groups, significantly higher levels of coping behaviours were found in the experimental group. Secondary analysis revealed significant correlations between higher rates of parental use of distr...

Research paper thumbnail of Fitzgerald, Heary, Kelly, Nixon, & Shevlin, 2013

Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset ... more Adolescence, with its change in dietary habits, is likely to be a vulnerable period in the onset of obesity. It is considered that peers have an important role to play on adolescents' diet, however, limited research has examined the role of peers in this context. This study examined the relationship between self-efficacy for healthy eating, parent and peer support for healthy and unhealthy eating and food intake patterns. Participants were 264 boys and 219 girls (N = 483), aged 13-18 years, recruited from post-primary schools in Ireland. Self-report measures assessed self-efficacy, parent and peer support for healthy eating, and for unhealthy eating. Dietary pattern analysis, a popular alternative to traditional methods used in nutritional research, was conducted on a FFQ to derive food intake patterns. Two patterns were identified labelled 'healthy food intake' and 'unhealthy food intake'. Multi-group modelling was used to evaluate whether the hypothesized model of factors related to dietary patterns differed by gender. The multigroup model fit the data well, with only one path shown to differ by gender. Lower self-efficacy for healthy eating and higher peer support for unhealthy eating were associated with 'unhealthy food intake'. Higher self-efficacy was associated with 'healthy food intake'. Prevention programs that target self-efficacy for eating and peer support for unhealthy eating may be beneficial in improving dietary choices among adolescents. .ie (A. Fitzgerald), caroline.heary@ nuigalway.ie (C. Heary), colette.kelly@nuigalway.ie (C. Kelly), enixon@tcd.ie (E. Nixon), m.shevlin@ulster.ac.uk (M. Shevlin).

Research paper thumbnail of Focus Groups Versus Individual Interviews with Children: A Comparison of Data

The Irish Journal of Psychology, 2006

In recent years there has been an increase in the use of qualitative data collection techniques i... more In recent years there has been an increase in the use of qualitative data collection techniques in research with children. Among the most common of these methods are focus groups and individual interviews. While many authors claim that focus groups have advantages over individual interviews, these claims have not been tested empirically with children. The present study reports on the use of focus groups and interviews to collect qualitative data from 116 children in three age groups, with mean ages of 8.4, 11.5 and 14.3 years. The children were randomly allocated to participate in either focus groups or individual interviews where they were presented with identical material and questions relating to their beliefs about peers with psychological disorders. In line with previous research, the interviews produced significantly more relevant and unique ideas about the causes of these disorders than the focus groups, but the latter gave rise to greater elaboration of ideas. The participating children showed no significant difference in their preference for one method over the other. Thus, whether to choose individual interviews or focus groups is likely to depend on the nature of the research question in any given study.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents’ beliefs about sources of help for ADHD and depression

Journal of Adolescence, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of The Development of Children’s Understanding of Common Psychological Problems

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2009

Background: The aim of the present study was to explore children’s beliefs about the causes of p... more Background: The aim of the present study was to explore children’s beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and their beliefs about potential sources of help for peers experiencing these problems. Despite its importance this is an area that has received relatively little attention from researchers.Methods: One hundred and sixteen children were read short vignettes in focus groups or individual interviews. The vignettes described the behaviour of hypothetical children with ADHD, conduct disorder and depression. Following each vignette children were asked questions about the likely causes of the behaviour and possible sources of help. A cross sectional research design was used with equal numbers of boys and girls of three age groups, the average age of the children in each group was: 8.4 years; 11.5 years and 14.3 years respectively.Results: Children of all ages were able to offer a range of explanations for the behaviour of the children described in the vignettes and these explanations varied systematically with age and the nature of the behaviour described. The majority of children believed that behaviour could change and that help to support change could be provided by family and friends.Conclusions: Results confirm and extend the findings of earlier studies that there are developmental changes in children’s understanding of some common psychological problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Children's understanding of psychological problems displayed by their peers: a review of the literature

Child Care Health and Development, 2007

Background There is a widespread consensus in the literature that children who have psychologica... more Background There is a widespread consensus in the literature that children who have psychological problems are more likely than other children to be excluded or rejected by their peers. The existence of this phenomenon has been established, primarily with the use of research on their sociometric status within groups of peers. Much less research has been performed on the way in which children develop attitudes and behavioural intentions towards peers with problems.Aims The primary aim of this article is to introduce readers to research on children's understanding of the nature of common childhood psychological problems, with a view to exploring the factors that might contribute to the development of negative attitudes and behaviour.Method Relevant publications were identified through searches of electronic databases and articles in print.Results From the early years of primary school, children are able to identify peers whose behaviour deviates from the norm and to suggest causes for the behaviour of peers with psychological problems. Furthermore, their beliefs about peers' personal responsibility for these problems appear to be a significant determinant of attitudes and behavioural intentions. The article identifies the need for more research on the role of factors such as gender and personal contact in determining children's understanding of, and attitudes towards, peers with psychological problems. In addition, the article calls for more research on mental health education programmes and the extension of these programmes to younger children, given the fact that even young primary school children appear to have beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and negative attitudes to peers who display such problems.Conclusions Research on children's understanding of mental health can make an important contribution to our understanding of why children with problems are so much more likely to be excluded from their peer group.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents' Explanations for the Exclusion of Peers With Mental Health Problems: An Insight Into Stigma

Journal of Adolescent Research

Young people with mental health problems are often excluded from their peer group; however, resea... more Young people with mental health problems are often excluded from their peer group; however, research has not specifically explored their peers’ explanations for this exclusion. Drawing on data from group interviews with Irish adolescents (N = 148), this study explores the reasons offered for rejecting young people with mental health problems. Such reasons include perceived violation of expectations of friendships, and perceived social and personal risks to members of the peer group. The implications of these findings for the development of interventions to combat the stigma of mental health problems are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents' beliefs about the fairness of exclusion of peers with mental health problems

Journal of adolescence, Jan 21, 2015

Stigma research suggests that exclusion of peers with mental health problems is acceptable, howev... more Stigma research suggests that exclusion of peers with mental health problems is acceptable, however, no research has explored young people's beliefs about the fairness of exclusion. Group interviews with 148 adolescents explored judgements about the fairness of excluding peers with ADHD or depression from dyads and groups. Young people evaluated exclusion of peers with ADHD or depression from dyads and groups, with the exception of group exclusion of the peer with ADHD, as mostly unfair. Beliefs about the fairness of exclusion were influenced by the attributions that they applied to the target peer's behaviour, social obligations and loyalty within friendships and concerns about the adverse psychological effects of exclusion. Furthermore, their evaluations were influenced by personal beliefs about the social and personal costs of including the target peer. Evaluations of exclusion highlight novel avenues for to develop knowledge on the stigma of mental health problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Retrospective Accounts of Self-Stigma Experienced by Young People With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Depression

Psychiatric rehabilitation journal, Jan 23, 2015

Little is known about self-stigma experienced by young people with mental health problems, despit... more Little is known about self-stigma experienced by young people with mental health problems, despite the fact that research has demonstrated its existence. In the present study, we sought to investigate the experiences of self-stigma in childhood and adolescence, and particularly the nature of change in self-stigma across this developmental period. Young adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or depression before their 18th birthdays were interviewed about their experiences within their peer groups during childhood and adolescence. This qualitative study involved open-ended interviews with 16 young adults aged 18-30 years. Interviews focused on the experience of stigmatization, responses to stigma, and how these changed over time. Three main themes pertaining to self-stigma emerged: (a) being different, (b) peer stigmatization and associated experiences of self-stigma, and (c) selective disclosure and a move toward greater openness. The findings also sug...

Research paper thumbnail of Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale: psychometric properties of a questionnaire for children and adolescents

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Children's Attributions about Psychological Problems in their Peers Scale

Research paper thumbnail of Beliefs About Causes and Sources of Help for Psychological Problems Vignettes

Research paper thumbnail of Factors associated with acceptance of peers with mental health problems in childhood and adolescence

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2011

Research suggests that children's reactio... more Research suggests that children's reactions to peers with mental health problems are related to the maintenance and outcomes of these problems. However, children's perceptions of such peers, particularly those with internalising problems, are neither well researched nor understood. The present study aimed to test a series of models relating socio-demographic and attributional variables to the acceptance of hypothetical boys and girls with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression. A sample of 595 participants, drawn from five different age-groups spanning early childhood to late adolescence, completed a booklet of questions in response to two vignettes describing the behaviour of hypothetical target peers with depression and ADHD. The sample was drawn from schools randomly selected in the east of Ireland. The models indicated that age and gender of the participant, and the perceived responsibility of the target character for his/her condition, were the three most important predictors of acceptance in all models. However, the relationship between these variables and acceptance varied depending on the gender of the target child and the condition (depression or ADHD) in the models tested. The findings of the study suggest that the relationships between socio-demographic and attributional variables and acceptance of peers with mental health problems depend on the type of mental health problem under consideration. The findings have implications for the development of information and education programmes to improve the integration of children with mental health problems.

Research paper thumbnail of Explicit and implicit stigma towards peers with mental health problems in childhood and adolescence

Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012

Children and adolescents with mental health problems are widely reported to have problems with p... more Children and adolescents with mental health problems are widely reported to have problems with peer relationships; however, few studies have explored the way in which these children are regarded by their peers. For example, little is known about the nature of peer stigmatisation, and no published research has investigated implicit attitudes thus ensuring that stigma is not well understood. To address this issue, the current study explored patterns of explicit and implicit stigmatisation of peers with depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The sample was 385 children (M = 10.21 years) and adolescents (M = 15.36 years). Participants completed a questionnaire assessing explicit stigma towards an age- and gender-matched peer with ADHD or depression and another peer with 'normal issues' who were described in vignettes. They also completed a modified version of the implicit association test (IAT) that explored implicit attitudes towards the target peers. Questionnaire data indicated that the peer with ADHD was perceived more negatively than the peer with depression on all dimensions of stigma, except perceived dangerousness and fear. In contrast, the IAT findings suggest that some participants had more negative views of the peer with depression than the peer with ADHD. Specifically, the findings demonstrate that adolescent males demonstrated significantly stronger negative implicit evaluations of depression compared with younger males and adolescent females. Children and adolescents demonstrate stigmatising responses to peers with common mental health problems. The nature and extent of these responses depends on the type of problem and the type of measurement used. The findings highlight the importance of using both explicit and implicit measures of stigma.

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescents’ beliefs about sources of help for ADHD and depression

Journal of Adolescence, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Factors influencing the food choices of Irish children and adolescents: a qualitative investigation

Health Promotion International, 2010

Food choices established during childhood and adolescence tend to persist into adulthood with con... more Food choices established during childhood and adolescence tend to persist into adulthood with consequences for long-term health. Yet, to date, relatively little research has examined factors that influence the food choices of children and adolescents from their perspectives. In this article, previous research is extended by examining developmental differences between children's and adolescents' perceptions of factors influencing their food choices. Focus group discussions were conducted with 29 young people from three age groups (9-10, 13-14 and 16-18 years). An inductive thematic analysis identified three key factors as influencing food choices. These factors included intra-individual factors: the link between food preferences and awareness of healthy eating; intra-familial factors: the role of the home food environment; and extra-familial factors: eating away from the home. Findings indicate that there were developmental differences between children's and adolescents' perceptions of factors influencing food choice. Among adolescents, parental control began to diminish and adolescents exercised increased autonomy over their food choices compared with children. To develop effective nutrition interventions, it is important to gather child and adolescent input regarding factors perceived as influencing their food choices.

Research paper thumbnail of The Development of Children’s Understanding of Common Psychological Problems

Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2009

Background: The aim of the present study was to explore childrenÕs beliefs about the causes of ps... more Background: The aim of the present study was to explore childrenÕs beliefs about the causes of psychological problems and their beliefs about potential sources of help for peers experiencing these problems. Despite its importance this is an area that has received relatively little attention from researchers. Methods: One hundred and sixteen children were read short vignettes in focus groups or individual interviews. The vignettes described the behaviour of hypothetical children with ADHD, conduct disorder and depression. Following each vignette children were asked questions about the likely causes of the behaviour and possible sources of help. A cross sectional research design was used with equal numbers of boys and girls of three age groups, the average age of the children in each group was: 8.4 years; 11.5 years and 14.3 years respectively. Results: Children of all ages were able to offer a range of explanations for the behaviour of the children described in the vignettes and these explanations varied systematically with age and the nature of the behaviour described. The majority of children believed that behaviour could change and that help to support change could be provided by family and friends. Conclusions: Results confirm and extend the findings of earlier studies that there are developmental changes in childrenÕs understanding of some common psychological problems.

Research paper thumbnail of First page preview

Psychology & Health, 2005

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