Add BrightSurf on Google Email

With proposed reauthorization of federal child abuse legislation, researchers make the case to better help substance-exposed infants

The proposed reauthorization of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) has the potential to positively impact parents with substance use disorder and infants with substance exposure. The legislation needs improved implementation to achieve a public health approach, providing tailored guidance and support for states.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 25, 2021

Using Disney movies to help with child development

Researchers found that Disney films combine entertainment with life lessons about love, friendship, and social values. The study suggests using Disney movies as tools for parents to improve communication with children about difficult topics, such as death, loss, and acceptance of differences.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalChild and Adolescent Social Work Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2021

Survey finds a need for pet care during hospitalizations

A survey conducted by Michigan Medicine found that nearly two-thirds of respondents experienced difficulty with pet care during hospitalization or knew someone who did. This stress can impact a patient's decision about staying in the hospital. Researchers aim to develop better resources and formalized services to address this need.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Patient Experience·TypeSurvey·DateOct 5, 2021

Study finds long-term injectable medications combined with counseling improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder

Researchers from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that combining long-term injectable medications with psychosocial intervention improves adherence and symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder. The study enrolled 30 people with bipolar disorder who had adherenc...

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalThe Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2021

Study outlines factors that help engage nonresident fathers in child welfare efforts

A recent study by North Carolina State University highlights key factors that facilitate engaging nonresident fathers in child welfare efforts. The study found that social service providers who work with male social workers and incorporate specific values and mindsets into their practice can effectively engage fathers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalResearch on Social Work Practice·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 2021

Fear of rejection vs. joy of inclusion: Faith communities from LGBTQ+ perspectives

A study by West Virginia University researchers found that LGBTQ+ people can benefit from faith communities, experiencing a sense of indescribable joy and relief from inclusion. However, the fear of rejection poses significant psychological stress, leading to 'minority stress' with detrimental effects on physical and mental health.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalSpirituality in Clinical Practice·DateJul 12, 2021

University of Michigan study indicates negative outcomes for Native American children who are spanked

A new University of Michigan study found that spanking is harmful for all three racial groups, despite cultural differences. Spanking at age 1 predicts child behavior issues at age 3, leading to more spanking at age 5. The study's findings highlight the need for discipline alternatives to spanking in Native American communities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 19, 2019

Three parent factors that heighten the prevalence of childhood physical abuse: New study

Adults with parents struggling with addiction, intimate partner violence, and mental illness are more than 30 times likely to be victims of childhood physical abuse. The study found a strong correlation between these risk factors and childhood abuse, highlighting the importance of screening for children in vulnerable homes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJun 11, 2019

Postpartum depression: For impoverished mothers of color, it takes a community

A University at Buffalo researcher emphasizes the importance of considering community realities and resources in treating postpartum depression among low-income mothers of color. The study's findings highlight the need for social workers to advocate for expanded services, including childcare, transportation, and access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateMay 14, 2019

Light at the end of the tunnel

A nationally representative study found that two-thirds (69%) of Canadians who had ever attempted suicide were completely free of any suicidal thoughts in the past year. The study also identified that social support and effective mental health treatment played a critical role in recovery from suicidal ideation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateFeb 20, 2019

How a one-hour 'planting party' lifts spirits, builds skills among women in prison

A one-hour workshop on houseplant-potting improved the moods of incarcerated women and provided a respite from their surroundings. The study highlights the value of interaction with nature for therapeutic and rehabilitative goals, suggesting that such activities can have a lasting impact on quality of life while in prison.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalInternational Journal of Prisoner Health·DateJan 30, 2019

Vulnerable youth stress the importance of influential adults in their school lives

Research finds that even vulnerable kids can identify specific adults who made a difference in their education. The study's participants highlighted the need for communication and collaboration among adult providers to ensure youth don't fall through the cracks. Better support systems are crucial for improving educational outcomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateAug 21, 2018

Study: Are birth mothers satisfied with decisions to place children for adoption?

A Baylor University study found that birth mothers' satisfaction with their decision to place children for adoption is affected by time, age, education, income, and contact with the child. The research revealed that higher education, financial success, and older age led to decreased satisfaction, while current contact with the child an...

SourceBaylor University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateJun 8, 2018

Study suggests social workers could help families navigate foreclosure

A recent study published in Families in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services found that social workers have the capability to mitigate impending financial calamity before it happens. Further training could strengthen their abilities to stave off foreclosure, supporting families in connecting with resources.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateApr 18, 2018