A multisystem model for understanding stress and adaptation in ethnically and racially diverse youth.

Contemporary biological and contextually based theoretical frameworks have conceptualized how stress exposure may influence adaptation in youth. However, nearly all of this scholarship neglects the role of specific contextual features and/or biological processes that are involved in ethnic-racial minority youth's responses and adaptation to sociocultural stressors. Drawing on the theoretical principles of the developmental psychopathology framework and contemporary models of stress and adaptation, this article proposes a new multisystem model that explains how multiple levels and systems within and outside of individual youth influence their sociocultural adaptation. We provide empirical evidence to support components of this multisystem model. We propose that research based on our new theoretical framework will capture the sociocultural experiences of ethnic-racial minority youth by centering processes that are relevant to their lived experiences, coping, and adjustment. In doing so, this model will inform psychosocial interventions focused on promoting healthy adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth. Finally, we offer recommendations to guide future research on stress and adaptation among ethnic and racial diverse youth, in particular, and developmental psychopathology more broadly.

The compounded effect of the dual pandemic on ethnic-racial minority adolescents' mental health and psychosocial well-being.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. youth faced various stressors that affected their schooling experiences, social relationships, family dynamics, and communities. These stressors negatively impacted youths' mental health. Compared to White youths, ethnic-racial minority youths were disproportionately affected by COVID-19-related health disparities and experienced elevated worry and stress. In particular, Black and Asian American youths faced the compounded effects of a dual pandemic due to their navigation of both COVID-19-related stressors and increased exposure to racial discrimination and racial injustice, which worsened their mental health outcomes. However, protective processes such as social support, ethnic-racial identity, and ethnic-racial socialization emerged as mechanisms that attenuated the effects of COVID-related stressors on ethnic-racial youths' mental health and promoted their positive adaptation and psychosocial well-being.

The multifaceted care-seeking practices among caregivers of children with cerebral palsy: Perspectives from mothers and providers in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Research on cerebral palsy (CP) has lacked emphasis on knowledge and treatment practices among caregivers, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where socio-cultural contexts encourage a variety of treatment alternatives. In this study, we explored the beliefs and experiences that motivate care-seeking practices among caregivers of children with CP in Ghana. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 caregivers, 10 medical providers, and 5 alternative providers in the Greater Accra Region. Participant interviews were analyzed using principles adapted from grounded theory. A conceptual model was constructed to illustrate salient patterns and motivational factors influencing care-seeking practices. RESULTS: Participants' experiences showed that caregivers initially sought physiotherapy and prescription medications from medical providers. Many of them then transitioned to alternative methods to search for a cure or address specific CP symptoms. Over time, most caregivers discontinued both medical and alternative care in favor of at-home treatment. A few withdrew completely from all forms of care. Cost of treatment, caregiver burden, and stigma strongly inhibited care-seeking outside the home. CONCLUSION: Although caregivers were open to exploring a variety of treatment options, at-home treatment was preferred by long-time caregivers for its convenience, low cost, and adaptability to patient and caregiver needs.