Peer-reviewed article
Parental Understanding of Mental Health in Early Childhood Development: A Human Capabilities Approach
Fatiema Benjamin, Inge Karla Sonn, Edna Grace Rich, Jenny Rose, Nicolette Vanessa Roman ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view ·Key points
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Abstract
Background: the family is central to a child’s development and well-being. Parental understanding of mental health or psychological distress have a significant effect on child development including their mental health. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore parents understanding of mental health in early childhood development. Methods: semi-structured interviews with 12 parents of children in early childhood development were conducted. Five themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) Understanding mental health; (2) Perceptions of parental mental health in relation to the child; (3) Child’s behaviour when experiencing different emotions; (4) Child’s behaviour when witnessing parent’s emotions; and (5) Child’s interaction, confidence, and attitude. Overall, parents were not clear in understanding mental health. They could understand and identify basic emotions but were unable to identify early childhood mental health signs. Recommendations enhancing the knowledge and skills of parents are provided within the capabilities framework.