Expected and Actual Preterm-Birth and Parental Distress: Impact on Children's Mental Health
This study aims to understand the mental health and development of children aged 6 to 11, particularly focusing on those who were born early (prematurely) compared to those born at full term. Researchers are investigating how being born early, along with parents' stress around that time, might impact a child's mental well-being and brain development later on. They're looking at things like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and social skills using questionnaires and interviews. The study also considers other factors like parents' mental health and support systems. This information will help us better support children and families who experience premature birth.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research study is looking into the long-term mental health and development of children when they reach 6 to 11 years old. The main goal is to compare children who were born early (prematurely) with those who were born at the expected time (full term). The idea is to understand if being born early, or if their parents experienced a lot of stress around the time of birth, might affect how children develop mentally and emotionally as they grow up.
They're particularly interested in common childhood challenges like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), characteristics sometimes seen in autism, feelings of anxiety or sadness, and behaviours like being defiant or aggressive. To get a full picture, they will use a combination of questionnaires filled out by parents and special interviews. They will also look at different things that might help or hinder a child's development, such as parents' mental health, how well families cope with difficulties, their personality, and the support they received.
Overall, the study wants to see how premature birth, any medical issues the baby had, and the stress parents might have felt, all combine to affect a child's mental health. By understanding these links better, we can hopefully find ways to provide better support for children and families right from the start, helping children thrive emotionally and mentally.
Key takeaways
- The study examines the mental health of children (6-11 years) born early or at full term.
- It checks how being born early and parents' stress might impact a child's development.
- Participation involves questionnaires and an interview for parents and a thinking skills assessment for children.
- It's a follow-up study, so only families from a previous study can take part.
- No medicines are given; the study focuses on understanding development.
- Your involvement helps researchers learn how to better support children and families in the future.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, both the children and their parents must have taken part in an earlier study. That first study included pregnant women and their partners from 24 weeks of pregnancy onwards, as long as they were at least 18 years old.
However, some people were not able to join the first study. This included individuals with serious mental health conditions like psychosis, those with drug abuse issues, or severe brain or nerve disorders. Sadly, if a baby was stillborn, those parents were also not included in the original study.
So, if you and your child were part of that first study, then your family might be eligible to participate in this follow-up research.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- My child and I participated in the previous 'parents' stress' study.
- I was at least 18 years old when I joined the first study.
- I did not have serious mental health issues, drug abuse, or severe nerve disorders during the first study.
- My baby was not stillborn, as per the original study criteria.
What does participation involve?
If you and your child are invited to take part and you agree, here's what to expect. Firstly, you'll be contacted by phone or email. If you say yes, you'll generally start by completing some questionnaires at home. These will ask about your own mental health and your child's.
Following the questionnaires, you'll be asked to take part in an interview. During this interview, researchers will talk with you about your mental health and your child's mental health. Your child will also do some activities to check their learning and thinking skills. There isn't any medication involved, and you won't need to visit a clinic for these assessments. The exact total duration isn't specified, but it will involve completing materials and an interview at home.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Johann Wolfgang Goethe UniversityVerified postcodeFrankfurt am Main, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the study trying to find out?
It wants to see how being born early and parents' stress might affect a child's mental health and development between ages 6 and 11.
Who can take part in this study?
Only children and their parents who were part of a previous study about parents' stress around the time of birth can participate.
What do I have to do if I join?
You'll fill out questionnaires and then have an interview about your and your child's mental health. Your child will also do some learning games.
Will my child have to take any medicine?
No, this study does not involve any medication or treatments.
Can I change my mind after starting?
Yes, you can decide to stop participating at any time without giving a reason.
How to find out more
Katharina Szota, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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