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Introduction: Two ethical challenges of nursing home nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden are discussed in this paper. Background: Historically, the nurse's primary concern is for the person who is ill, which is the core of nurses' moral responsibility and identity. In Sweden, person-centered care is generally deemed important in nursing older nursing home residents. Objective: To chart moral responsibilities of nursing home nurses in two cases involving older residents during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden. Methods: We used Margaret Urban Walker's framework for moral responsibilities and the International Council of Nurses (ICN) code of ethics for nurses (2021) for our normative analysis. Ethical considerations: Written and verbal consent was obtained before the interviews, and information was given that participation was entirely voluntary and possible to cancel at any time before the work was published. The Swedish Ethical Review Agency gave an advisory opinion stating that there were no ethical objections to this research project (Dnr. 2020-05649). Findings: Case #1: a palliative older nursing home resident who was coercively tested for COVID-19, and case #2: a COVID-19–infected resident with dementia who was isolated using sedation. The decision that was finally made in the respective case was analyzed in the light of either consequentialist/utilitarian or non-consequentialist/deontological reasons. Discussion: Empowerment of nurses as moral agents is required for the application of practical wisdom in the balancing of different care relationships (responsibilities), moral identities (professional virtues), and competing moral values. This requires resources and opens possibilities for profound ethical reflection in nursing education and at work. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the moral and professional responsibility of nursing home nurses to deliver person-centered care was sometimes problematically abandoned in favor of a more utilitarian manner of ethical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Death and dying are woven throughout the work of home care aides, and yet the care they provide at the end of life (EOL) remains poorly understood. This is due in part to the multiple circumstances under which aides provide EOL care. In this paper, we elucidate the EOL care experiences of aides working in home care agencies in New York City. We conducted in-depth interviews with 29 home care aides, and we analyzed these data using inductive, team-based methods. Our findings show that aides may not be aware of or accept a client's EOL status, and they may avoid EOL care. These conditions shape EOL care, and we detail the committed forms of care aides provide when they are aware and accepting. We recommend improved training, support systems, and policy change to enhance aides' contributions to EOL care, while protecting aides' health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The existing literature on sexuality and intimacy in residential care tends to focus on either the question of rights, or the value of autonomy. Where the literature does reference values other than autonomy, such values are considered in the context of being a guide to whether or not a resident is autonomous, rather than being important values in their own right. Objective: This paper draws on qualitative data gathered as part of a larger study in order to inform practice on how care workers respond to intimacy issues that arise with residents with dementia and to inform a general ethics of sex and sexuality, demonstrating that an approach which permits value pluralism can be appropriate in certain contexts. Research Design: The qualitative data referred to in this paper was gathered from semi-structured interviews undertaken as part of a larger mixed-method research project. The interview text was analysed using Thorne's methodological approach, interpretive description. Participants and research context: The qualitative arm of the project consisted of semi-structured interviews conducted between October 2018 and October 2019 with participants (staff, residents and family members) recruited from 35 residential care homes in Aotearoa New Zealand. Ethical Considerations: Participation was informed, voluntary and written consent was gained before interviews. The project was approved by the Massey University Human Ethics Committee (Northern), number NOR 18/25. Findings: Analysis of the scenarios presented in this paper shows that decision-making around sexual intimacy involving people with dementia in a residential care setting is complex and requires recognizing and weighing the different values that may be a in play. Conclusion: A focus on safety and consent to the exclusion of other values which matter morally in this context is a mistake which prevents care workers from providing appropriately person-centred care to residents, as policies which focus on the goal of care allow space for critical examination of issues which are likely to be highly context-sensitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social determinants of health (SDH), such as social isolation and loneliness, are often more frequently experienced in brain injury survivors. The paper explores the personal experiences of loneliness among brain injury survivors during lockdown to negate health inequalities and improve rehabilitation for this population in the future. Twenty-four brain injury survivors participated in semi-structured interviews and questionnaires relating to loneliness, resilience and wellbeing. Three themes (the experience of loneliness, loneliness during the pandemic and loneliness after the pandemic) explored survivors' experiences of loneliness generally post-brain injury, but also chronicle how these feelings developed in lockdown and survivors' feelings regarding society returning to 'normal'. Future interventions should focus on reframing survivors' beliefs regarding societal expectations and minimise the pressure they experience to keep up with their peers physically and emotionally. Additionally, we recommend creating accessible peer support options for all brain injury survivors as an important step for alleviating loneliness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability, affordability and usability of communication technologies have created new ways to conduct interpersonal qualitative research. Access to digital communications remains uneven, but the online environment provides an alternative, and at times a potentially preferable, research space. As Covid-19 has interrupted and disrupted the dominant assumption that qualitative research must be conducted in person, this paper outlines possibilities and reservations of online interpersonal methods. Though the standard ethical considerations of qualitative research hold true, we argue that these are necessary, but often inadequate, in the contexts of conducting online synchronous interpersonal research. Through centring relational and reflexive practice, we consider the associated pragmatic, methodological and ethical domains from feminist and virtual–material positional perspectives. Unpacking the complexities and possibilities of researching digital environments, we present six guiding principles to inform ethically responsive, methodologically robust and pragmatically feasible approaches to conducting online interpersonal qualitative research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has motivated social workers to reckon with and transform traditions in service delivery. The development, application, and evaluation of technology-enhanced practices have become more vital than ever. Garden on the Balcony (GOB) was an innovative internet-based social work service designed to respond rapidly to the COVID-19 outbreak in Beijing. This paper introduces the underlying perspectives and design of GOB and reports participants' reflections on the program to understand its mechanisms and implications. Interview data from GOB participants were collected 4 months after the program ended. Thematic analysis generated three major themes, suggesting that GOB had (a) promoted individual resilience and family cohesion; (b) built online and offline community bonds; and (c) cultivated a green lifestyle and spiritual reflection on life. This study demonstrates a practical example of the effective use of technology-enhanced practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engaging vulnerable populations in research is a critical focus for researchers seeking to find ways to improve safety and well-being for broader populations. Vulnerabilities often co-occur, meaning that individuals may experience vulnerabilities in multiple facets of their life (e.g., victim of abuse and mental health diagnoses). Unfortunately, many vulnerable populations remain underinvestigated due to difficulty reaching, engaging, and safely including such populations in research. While most researchers assert the importance of including vulnerable populations in research, few actively and successfully recruit them. Many vulnerable populations are understandably weary of research participation. Victims and survivors of domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) are one such vulnerable population, in that identification may incur substantial risk for DMST victim's physical safety and well-being. In addition, DMST victims and survivors often experience co-occurring vulnerabilities including substance use, histories of abuse, delinquency, and poor mental health. Accordingly, they are notoriously difficult to recruit for research participation. The current paper uses a detailed case example to describe the recruitment and retention strategies used by one researcher to promote DMST survivor research participation. A candid account of challenges, successes, and lessons learned is offered in service of building methodological techniques for recruitment that both honor participant experiences while championing methodological rigor. Findings detail the importance of trust and a trauma-informed approach to qualitative data collection and analysis. Authors include specific strategies to promote comfort and candor amid traumatic response in ways that may empower research participants. A detailed discussion of how such strategies may be adapted for vulnerable populations beyond DMST victims and survivors is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emotional dilemmas and challenges facing researchers within the research process are beginning to be documented within the literature, and academic interest in them is in ascendency. This paper adds to this growing discourse by taking a reflective journey through 19 years of research practice. It presents an honest and revealing manuscript highlighting in particular, the researcher's emotional dilemmas experienced when disengaging from participants at the end of longitudinal research studies. It uses case studies to highlight some of the challenges in maintaining the participant–researcher boundaries and the emotional dilemmas this creates when trying to say goodbye. It argues that blurring the boundaries of participant–researcher relationships and establishing a trusting relationship can present emotional difficulties for researchers during and long after the closure of a research study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a ritual perspective, the paper identifies a new form of ritual concerning the corpse, which could facilitate separation and allow the living to look at the deceased without disgust. In order to explore the effect of thanato-aesthetic interventions, the experience of the last glance of the bereaved at their deceased loved ones was analyzed. Twenty interviews were performed in three morgues, and thematic analysis was utilized. The aim was to illustrate how post-mortem grief may be affected by aesthetic manipulation of the corpse and ways in which the bereaved relocate their beloveds. The fundamental hypothesis is that the facilitation of concrete contact with the corpse may assist mourners to detach from the deceased. From the qualitative analysis, three areas of meaning prevalence emerged: Kübler-Ross phases of grief work and the conspiracy of silence; immortality and continuing bonds; and the effects of thanato-aesthetic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper reports the experiences of adults in receipt of social care when relocating to new local authorities, and of family carers. While many matters need to be considered when moving, the study focused specifically on the 'portability' of social care. The study draws on data from semi-structured interviews conducted between July and November 2013 with 12 adults who had relocated between English local authorities. Data were collected prior to the implementation of the Care Act 2014; the potential impact of the Act in respect of relocation is considered. Findings: Although some positive experiences were identified, participants primarily reported challenges when moving with social care support. Five themes were identified, these related to the amount of organisation, planning and activity required; the need for a timely approach and the risk of delays and interruptions to care delivery; differences between the practices of local authorities; a lack of control and involvement; a negative impact on emotional and physical well-being. As a result of such difficulties, some experienced delays or interruptions to their care and support; lost all or some of their care package; experienced stress, anxiety and worry. Applications: The paper documents the experiences of people relocating with social care support, which have been little explored to date within the UK or internationally, and contributes to the evidence base in respect of relocation and portability of care. It highlights the importance of smooth transitions for those relocating between local authorities, and the potential for social workers to assist by addressing potential problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study reviews two different types of frontline social services for unaccompanied young adult refugees participating in an intensive Social Support Programme implemented in 2016–2019 by a local municipality. More specifically, the study took a phenomenological research approach to review the impact of intensive case management and specialised educational/occupational orientation services on young refugees' capabilities and agency to reach aspired life goals. The capability approach has been applied as a theoretical framework for identifying opportunities and challenges in this regard. The paper covers a mixed-method design that includes qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative data are drawn from 42 in-depth interviews with 24 young refugees and one interview and three focus group discussions with 10 service providers. The article also includes a limited amount of longitudinal statistics on the aspirations of 31 young refugees upon entering and exiting the support programme. Findings: This article shows theoretical and empirical evidence for utilising the capability approach to review social services for young refugees. Findings suggest that social workers and refugees face intersecting structural and interpersonal tensions that counteract with the expansion of young refugees' capabilities and agency to reach their aspired life goals. Specific strategies are suggested to diminish described challenges. Applications: Social work with unaccompanied young adult refugees should shift its attention from integrating these young individuals into the dominant social order, to prioritising their human development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This methodological article reflects upon the relationships between researchers and professionals who work with marginalized young adults. The latter act as gatekeepers who have the power to foster or restrict cooperative research. As such, this paper focuses on the significance of researcher and gatekeeper relationships in the context of research that aims to broaden established professional practices, as well as the role of the gatekeeper. The paper evaluates a case example to determine how gatekeeping impacts the research process and how gatekeepers' engagement with research is maintained. The analysis is based on field notes and interviews that were completed during the research process for an empirical study that aimed to both scrutinize and promote the quality of life of 16- to 29-year-old young adults who were not in education or employment. In spite of the expectation of rapid and impactful results by entities that fund research, the ability to co-create new professional practices requires time and continuous negotiation. Therefore, operating as a researcher in targeted youth or social work calls for a developed understanding of varying forms of knowledge and gatekeeping that are relevant to youth counselling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theme of mistrust in resettlement contexts is largely overlooked in refugee discourses. Through a qualitative inquiry of post-migration experiences of four women raising children alone in Brisbane, Australia, this paper outlines how the presence of mistrust could at times create difficult resettlement circumstances for these women, who then needed to negotiate additional obstacles in everyday life. The definition of social mistrust used here is a form of deliberate and ongoing suspicion about lone refugee women’s choices and lifestyles from other community members. Importantly, the women achieved a sense of well-being despite experiencing mistrust, both in inter-group and intra-group contexts, indicating that they conceptualised access to and benefits from social networks with different emphases on trust. Sociocultural narratives of mistrust, particularly gender-specific perspectives can enrich refugee discourses and challenge established notions of trust inherent to understandings of social networks in resettlement. The findings discussed in this paper contribute to debunking the ‘myth’ of homogeneity in relation to refugee groups and demonstrate the diversity of experiences among sub-groups of refugee women. The theme of mistrust, particularly among women, is an oft-neglected aspect and requires further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Women living in rural Australia who are labelled as depressed, by either themselves or professionals, contend with spatial injustices of limited service provision that converge with the dominant constructions of mental health and knowledge authorisation. Informed by a feminist social constructionist standpoint, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 women living in rural New South Wales in Australia. This paper explores how rural women navigate experiences labelled as depression. The women's stories conveyed an overwhelming sense of loss, abuse and betrayal, and the pathologisation of their experiences of structural violence and oppression is of significant concern. Yet, the women also showed agency by using to their best benefit multiple and often divergent explanations for their experiences of depression. While many accepted the diagnosis of their symptoms, most resisted a sole pathological cause and actively created individually meaningful narratives of their depression experiences. The language of 'depression' provided a passport for some, allowing access to formal supports that would have otherwise been unavailable or highly stigmatised. Rurality and the associated structural disadvantage, particularly in regard to service provision, was only marginally present in the women's stories. The alternative narratives of healing uncovered challenge the centrality of formal service delivery to the wellbeing of a community. Further, while the pathologisation of structural oppression must be resisted, the women's stories demonstrate the importance of not invisibilising the agency they demonstrate in this difficult and contested space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Mali has implemented the Filets Sociaux (Jigisémèjiri) program that aims to reduce poverty through cash transfers (CTs) to predominantly male heads of household with accompanying measures. This paper reports on a qualitative study of the effects of the program on intimate partner relationships. In-depth interviews were conducted with men and women in monogamous and polygamous households. Findings revealed that the positive aspects of intimate partner relationships were communication and shared values. However, discussions around decision-making revealed male authority with limited influence by women. Physical violence was reported to be caused by tensions and disputes. Whereas sexual violence was contested, some women described sexual force as violence but men and women asserted that compliance in sexual matters by women was expected. Men also asserted control through preventing women from working outside the home. The CTs were managed by the husband, with some involvement of wives in decision-making about the use of CTs. CTs were reported to reduce household poverty and improve wellbeing, especially for men. There were reports of the effects of the program on IPV, especially in the reduction of physical violence, its effects on sexual violence and controlling behaviour were reported to be limited. Since women are not the primary recipients of the CT, there is limited effect on women's agency to challenge male authority and control around sexual and financial matters. CTs may be more effective if targeted to women, alongside skill and knowledge strengthening to utilize cash transfers to assert their rights to equality and prevent violence [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pregnancy is a significant transitional life experience. It can also be one of the most stressful experiences in life and some women go on to develop postpartum depression. Adopting mindfulness techniques during childbirth may allow women to experience less labor pain and require fewer medical interventions, which improve the mother's health. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness in reducing childbirth stress in primigravid women in Saudi Arabia. Methods: The researcher recruited primigravid women from an antenatal clinic in a government hospital in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The study adopted a qualitative interpretive descriptive design, using individual interviews to collect the data before conducting thematic content analysis using NVivo 10.1 software. Results: Five key themes emerged from the data: (a) stress reduction, (b) recognition of thoughts and feelings, (c) life satisfaction, (d) insufficient knowledge leads to challenges, and (e) empowerment of a spiritual aspect. Conclusions: Mindfulness is an effective technique that supports a mother's physical and psychological well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racial justice movements sparked by police killings of Black and Brown persons have led to a reassessment of the role of policing in America. This has promoted important conversations about how best to improve public safety and design law enforcement practices that are equitable and just across communities. A component of this conversation is addressing stress and trauma faced by police as a routine part of their duties, as it can affect the quality of policing. Job-related stress and trauma experienced by police officers are an international phenomenon, yet underexplored areas in social work research and practice. Police officers experience high levels of stress from routine exposure to traumatic situations, leading to high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, and depression. Officers who are actively experiencing symptoms of stress and trauma are more likely to engage in misconduct, including the unnecessary use of force. This study explores the stress and trauma-related experiences of police officers. We conducted one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with 23 officers from an urban police department in St Louis, Missouri. Analysis of interviews addressed three areas: (1) stress and trauma experiences associated with police work, (2) negative effects of stress and trauma on officers, and (3) factors impacting officer access to treatment. We conclude that social work can contribute to improved policing outcomes by helping officers address their job-related stress and trauma through engaged research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precarious Employment (PE) is characterized by job, income, and benefit insecurities. Studies surrounding PE and well-being have been predominantly quantitative, leaving a gap in rich descriptions of employment experiences. We recruited a sample of 40 adults aged 25-55 who were involved in PE during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic or lost employment due to the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were administered. Employment and income insecurities were common and had negative impacts on the well-being of participants and their families. Uncertainty about future employment prospects and job and income loss resulted in chronic distress. Other insecurities—access to benefits, violation of worker rights, worker safety—was also reported as impacting well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic deepened insecurities, hardships, and distress among workers with PE conditions. Given the myriad insecurities experienced by those engaged in PE, the focus of precarious work research should also include working conditions, violation of worker rights, and managerial domination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: COVID-19-related restrictions resulted in changes to time use and occupational participation, impacting individual and collective well-being. This study addressed a knowledge gap concerning the adaptive process during periods of occupational disruption. We explored the experience of occupational disruption and how people managed disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We used a qualitative descriptive approach and interviewed 18 participants of a larger survey study of time use during the COVID-19 pandemic undertaken around a medium-sized city in Canada. Transcript analysis was conducted inductively using conventional content analysis. Findings: Two overarching themes were constructed during data analysis: The Disruption Experience and Adopting New Habits and Routines. In the face of disruption, participants described a sense of loss and disconnection, and challenges with time management. Establishing new habits and routines required new learning associated with increased time and flexibility, connecting with others and health and wellness. Conclusion: During changing pandemic restrictions, participants expressed a sense of loss, disconnection and time management challenges associated with occupational disruptions, but also described ways they adapted, improving their health and well-being. Strategies identified through this work may be used to enhance adaptation during disruptions. Future research should explore differences in adaptation, among more diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immigrant well-being sits at the intersections of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender. Cumulative migration stressors, poverty, and socio-cultural factors have made female immigrants of sub-Saharan African descent especially susceptible to poor psychological outcomes. Furthermore, family characteristics including birth order, family size, and interpersonal relationships are known correlates of physical and mental health functioning. And yet, African immigrants are often aggregated into larger groups, effectively masking the groups' unique historical and cultural characteristics. This phenomenological study examined how the identity of "daughter," birth order, and transnational experiences inform the well-being of young African women. Participants (N = 11) who self-identified as cis-gender females were invited for two cycles of in-depth interviews. These young women contextualize their identities around family and familial obligations. They struggle with the contradictions of the parent–child relationship and credit parenting strategies they sometimes view as problematic with their career and academic drive. Feelings of being overwhelmed by familial and social expectations are countered by excitement around their emerging liberated identities. These findings point to the need for inclusive spaces which consider the multiple identities they embody. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-Black racism and cissexism have been strong motivators for Black trans and gender diverse (TGD) communities to engage in activism. Furthermore, Black TGD people have often been at the forefront of activist movements, yet they rarely receive recognition for their role in disrupting systems of oppression and contributing to liberation movements. Although researchers have documented that young Black and TGD people have played a crucial role in activist movements, they have yet to document the intersectional experiences of young Black TGD people within activism. This study used semistructured interviews to explore the experiences of 15 young Black TGD people within activism movements, including different forms of activism and factors related to involvement and impact. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in five main themes and 13 subthemes as key aspects of activism: (a) community, (b) education, (c) identity, (d) intersectionality, and (e) prioritizing one's well-being, plus 13 subthemes. We discuss implications for practice, training, and advocacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vulvodynia is a poorly understood chronic pain condition characterized by persistent and unexplained pain in the vulva. Given the intimate nature of the pain, partners may play an important role in promoting self-management and help-seeking behaviours among women with vulvodynia. Objectives: The current study aimed to explore the role of partner support in pain experiences and help-seeking behaviours among women with vulvodynia. Design: A qualitative interpretive design was used. Methods: Ten women with vulvodynia (M age = 37.9 years) were interviewed using a semi-structured non-directive topic guide. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Three themes around help-seeking experiences were constructed from the data: (1) 'It's Been a Battle' – Failed by the Healthcare System; (2) 'It's Just the Vulva' – Dismissed by Healthcare Professionals; and (3) 'I Diagnosed Myself' – The Patient Becomes the Expert. Participants described negative help-seeking experiences characterized by long delays to diagnosis, lack of awareness and understanding from healthcare professionals, minimization of symptoms, and having to advocate for and demand care. A further three themes pertaining to partner support were also developed: (1) 'That Person to Listen to You' – Source of Emotional Support; (2) 'Why Don't You Try This?' – Finding Solutions Together; and (3) 'He Forgets that it's Still There' – Vulvodynia is a Foreign Concept. Partners provided emotional support and showed empathy and understanding, and practical support by accompanying women to medical appointments and help with pain management. However, participants felt partners' understanding of vulvodynia was limited and that this impacted their relationships. Conclusions: Findings highlight a lack of continuity of care and multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with help-seeking experiences being mainly negative in this sample. Increasing public awareness of vulvodynia and improving healthcare access is crucial to improving physical and psychological outcomes for this group. Partners can play an important role in supporting people with vulvodynia; however, other outlets of support should be further explored. Plain Language Summary: Understanding How Women with Vulvodynia Seek Help and Get Support from Their Partners Vulvodynia is a condition where women experience persistent and unexplained pain in the vulva. This pain can be quite personal and difficult to deal with. In this study, we wanted to understand how partners of women with vulvodynia help them cope with the pain and seek medical help. We interviewed 10 women with vulvodynia about their experiences of accessing healthcare for their symptoms, and how their partners affected these experiences. Many women faced challenges when seeking medical help, like delays in getting a diagnosis, healthcare professionals not understanding their condition, and their symptoms being downplayed. Women often had to be their own experts and advocate for their care. Partners of these women provided emotional and practical support, like going with them to medical appointments and helping them to manage the pain. However, some women felt their partners did not fully understand vulvodynia, and their worries sometimes strained their relationships. In conclusion, the study showed that there is a need for better healthcare for women with vulvodynia, including more awareness and easier access to treatment. Partners can be supportive, but other forms of support, for example, from friends, family, and other people with experience of vulva pain, should also be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a blinding condition associated with depression, loneliness and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours which drives AMD progression. We have proposed the first online lifestyle intervention for AMD, called Movement, Interaction and Nutrition for Greater Lifestyles in the Elderly (MINGLE) to promote positive lifestyle changes and reduce loneliness. This qualitative grounded-theory study explored enablers and barriers to future participation in MINGLE for older adults with AMD. Thirty-one participants were interviewed and thematic analysis revealed nine themes. Enablers to participation were: socialising and learning about AMD, motivation to improve health, programme accessibility and structure. Barriers were: lack of time, technology, limited knowledge regarding holistic interventions, vision-related issues, mobility and negative perception of group interactions. These factors must be considered when developing lifestyle interventions for AMD patients to maximise participation. Supporting technology use and raising awareness about benefits of healthy lifestyle behaviours for AMD may help overcome these barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children who experience family-related adversity have stories to tell about well-being in the face of difficulties. These stories provide knowledge about how children handle their experiences and make sense of themselves. This study aims to investigate children's perspectives on experiences that have contributed to their well-being in the face of difficulties, with a specific focus on turning-point narratives. Twenty-two children (aged 6–17) were interviewed, on two occasions each, about themselves and their lives. The findings show that children emphasize protection, support, and knowledge as contributing to their well-being. Furthermore, the findings show that those who narrate turning points do so in relation to three interrelated aspects: identification, directedness, and self-relationship. In their telling, these children are engaged in the project of renegotiating their self-understanding. The core contribution of the study is the notion that a renegotiated self-understanding, in and of itself, may be an important part of children's well-being. The findings have implications for social work practice because they suggest that children in difficult life situations may benefit from support that offers them a space to examine old ideas about identity and agency in relation to new ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study's aim is to explore the experiences of people with advanced cancer and professionals participating in a program with focus on rehabilitation and palliative care. The study is based on two adjusted rehabilitation programs for 33 people with advanced cancer and 12 professionals. An observational study was conducted among the participants and two focus group interviews with 10 professionals. The analytic themes were "Lightness and happiness to gain control in everyday life," "Community and closeness," and "Training as a happiness and changing agent." The activities had to support physical functions and everyday activities promoting body identity and well-being as well as emotions like closeness, lightness, and happiness in groups with like-minded people and at home with a partner and other family members. These activities and theory of emotions and body can expand the understanding of palliative care and rehabilitation as separated or integrated perspectives theoretical and in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Assessment of occupational balance is of clinical relevance for occupational therapists working with patients with reduced occupational performance. Clinical practice lacks validated assessment tools to measure occupational balance. Aim: To establish the content validity of the 11-item Danish version of the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ-DK) with a radar chart add-on for use in occupational therapy practice. Materials and methods: A convergent mixed-methods study was performed investigating content validity. Three group interviews were conducted in 3 settings with 12 occupational therapists. A deductive content analysis covered face validity, relevance, comprehensiveness and comprehensibility. The relevance of the 11 items was further assessed using a content validity index. Results: All items were found to be relevant to the construct of occupational balance. Even so, concerns were raised regarding content validity. The comprehensiveness was questioned regarding the coverage of the balance of meaningful occupations. Comprehensibility was questioned for 6 of the 11 items, and the response scale. Conclusion: Content validity was investigated. The doubts raised in relation to comprehensiveness call for new wordings or elaborate instructions to enhance constructional clarity. The response scale levels should be adapted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: COVID-19 accelerated the implementation of virtual working at pace, which carries the risk of missed opportunities for shared learning across organisations and services. This study therefore investigated the experiences of 'virtual working' among occupational therapy (OT) staff and students in Wales. The objectives were to establish the meaning of virtual working for occupational therapists (OTs), identify the perceived advantages and disadvantages of the technologies used to support virtual working and explore the specific contextual factors that impact on service delivery. Method: An online questionnaire was completed by 191 registered and unregistered OT staff and students working in Wales, and 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted in a convergent mixed methods design. Results and Findings: The questionnaire data confirmed that the use of virtual working has increased and impacts all areas of service delivery. The semi-structured interviews identified three themes: the art of OT, keeping doors open and looking forward. Conclusion: Virtual working can improve access to services, but one size does not fit all and its use in person centred care should be carefully considered. Virtual working should not compromise high quality service provision and the risks of virtual working to staff's mental and physical health needs to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to understand siblinghood in old age through the perspective of Czech older adults. Forty-one in-depth interviews were analyzed, and four themes characterizing siblinghood among older persons were identified in the data: (1) Siblinghood as a unique bond, understood through genetic relatedness, the sense of belongingness, shared memories, and awareness of being the last members of the family of origin. (2) Being consanguineous and, as a result, irrevocably bonded by mutual commitments. (3) Being emotionally supportive and ready for help if needed and as resources allow. (4) The rules of doing siblinghood: the genealogical rules vs. the rule of family of procreation priority; the rule of genetic relatedness vs. the selectivity rule, or rather the preferences of particular siblings; the rules of "good siblinghood" (being interested in themselves, mutual respect, no envy). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to advance knowledge about separation abuse—and, specifically, divorce denial—and its implications for the well-being of survivors, by applying the conservation of resources (COR) theory. Data were collected from 15 Israeli female survivors of intimate partner violence who were denied divorce over a period lasting between 1 and 12 years. The findings revealed the participants' perceived detrimental effects of divorce denial on their well-being through multiple losses—in terms of autonomy, spiritual and relational, institutional, and financial resources. These findings suggest the need to assess and address the effects of resource loss in separation abuse interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on a study that provides insights into the challenges faced by practitioners in the Northern Territory (NT) who support families in enhancing child safety and well-being, particularly for children at risk of or exposed to domestic or family violence. Despite increased funding for programs aimed at improving children's safety and well-being, reports and substantiations of child maltreatment in the NT continue to escalate. Interviews with twelve participants from various organizations involved in child protection services, family support services, and residential care shed light on the existing gaps in support services, including limited resources for families escaping domestic violence and inadequate assistance for children transitioning from out-of-home care. The findings emphasize the need for early intervention services targeted at families displaying risk factors for child maltreatment. Additionally, community consultation is crucial for the design and implementation of support programs that align with the unique needs of communities, including the necessity of maintaining connections to community, culture, and family to address concerns related to meeting basic needs. The study calls for a comprehensive approach that integrates community input, cultural safety, and tailored support programs to bridge these gaps and facilitate lasting positive changes. By addressing these challenges, there is a potential to mitigate child maltreatment and improve the well-being of children and families in the NT, contributing to the overall welfare of the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing acceptance that ADHD is a multi-dimensional disorder in which not all symptoms are associated with deficits or functional impairments. This article contributes to research on the positive aspects of the diagnosis, specifically understanding the positive aspects of living with ADHD. The empirical data was based on individual interviews and self-narratives of 10 young adults with ADHD. Narrative analysis was implemented when investigating their stories. The findings showed that challenges with the diagnosis were not necessarily stably occupied, and for some, the diagnosis was thought of as a benefit and something they would not have been without. Four stories highlighted particularly the context of positive aspects: (1) insight and strategies, (2) targeted efforts, (3) balanced energy, and (4) social skills. These aspects were correlated to both the individual's strengths as well as the strengths and support that could be related to their societal and cultural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refugees and immigrants have experienced heightened health inequities related to COVID-19. As community-embedded frontline health personnel, refugee and immigrant community health workers (riCHWs) played essential roles in the provision of informational, instrumental, and emotional support during the unprecedented first year of the pandemic. Despite the importance of this workforce, riCHWs are at high risk for burnout due to low recognition and demanding workloads. This was exacerbated as riCHWs navigated a new and uncertain health delivery landscape. We sought to glean insight into riCHWs' stressors, coping strategies and resources, and self-efficacy to identify ways to support their work and wellbeing. Using a narrative inquiry approach, we conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 11 riCHWs working in a midsized city in the midwestern United States. We generated three distinct yet interrelated themes: (1) Rapid and trustworthy information is key, (2) Creativity and perseverance are good ... structural support is better, and (3) Integrating riCHW expertise into health promotion programming and decision-making. Although riCHWs were deeply committed to enhancing community wellbeing, quickly shifting responsibilities in tandem with structural-level health inequities diminished their self-efficacy and mental health. riCHWs relied on work-based friends/colleagues for informational and emotional support to enhance their capacity to deliver services. Findings suggest increasing opportunities for peer support and idea-exchange, professional development, and integration of riCHW expertise in health promotion decision-making are effective strategies to enhance riCHWs' professional self-efficacy and personal wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated how teenagers reacted to parental regulation of technology. Using longitudinal dyadic interviews with 24 teenagers and their 21 parents in two predominantly white middle-class communities, we explored how teenagers used technology during the COVID-19 pandemic and the differential consequences parental interventions had for teens' well-being and confidence with technology. Parents' narratives and actions about technology use were deeply gendered. Boys felt confident about their self-regulation of technology, and parents did not substantially limit boys' technology use during the pandemic. Girls were less confident about their ability to self-regulate and either worked with their mothers to manage technology, distrusted parents who monitored them, or lacked access to virtual hangout spaces such as video games and social media. The findings illustrate how parent-teen dynamics around adolescent technology use can produce short-term gendered inequalities in teenagers' well-being and result in long-term disadvantages for girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Unpaid carers were profoundly impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and public health responses. In the UK, in March 2020, people identified as clinically extremely vulnerable and their household members were advised to "shield" for an initial 12-week period, which meant minimizing all contacts from outside the household and not leaving the house at all, unless in an emergency. In a modified form, shielding guidance remained in place until August 2020 and was reinstituted from December 2020 until April 1, 2021. This article, reporting on qualitative interviews with 47 unpaid carers in Wales, thematically analyzed using a coding framework, explores the experiences of unpaid carers affected by this shielding guidance and their wider implications for social work with unpaid carers in the future. Findings: Participants in our study described ways in which their caring role expanded, due to the need to provide additional practical and emotional support for loved ones who were shielding, and who lost access to other avenues of support. Some also described their caring role as becoming more involved and complex due to the declining health or self-care capacity of the person cared-for as a direct consequence of shielding restrictions. Alongside the increase in their caring responsibilities, carers reported losing access to important avenues of support for their own well-being. Applications: We draw on ecological systems theory to highlight the importance during care planning and management of exploring the carer's mesosystem to identify and optimize sustaining forces, and of attending to the microsystem involving the carer and person cared-for. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few researchers have explored Canadian migrants' experiences of mental health and service access. We interviewed 10 migrants to Canada from a local settlement organization about mental health and services and 5 organization staff about their experiences supporting migrants' mental health and service access. Our interviews with migrants revealed cultural perceptions of mental health and unmet service needs. Our focus group with staff indicated challenges experienced by migrants and the tension between their openness with mental health difficulties and stigmatization from their cultural communities. A call to restructure existing mental health support for this underserved population is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immigration brings particular challenges to older Chinese immigrants' wellbeing because they make a new home in a foreign country. Based on 30 semi-structured in-depth interviews, this study aims to understand the immigration history of this specific group and unravel the complex links between family relationships and wellbeing. Four themes emerged from the interviews. First, the decision to immigrate is the result of the combined influence of family values, affinities and the need for aged care. Second, after immigration, housework normally negatively influences their wellbeing. The third theme pertains to the interactions amongst family members. The final theme shows that Chinese immigrants' perceived wellbeing is influenced by family relationships, an independent lifestyle and social networks. This research highlights older Chinese immigrants' complex feelings of family commitment, personal values and the need for aged care. Practical implications for policymakers to better facilitate this group's wellbeing are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This large mixed methods study adopted a citizenship lens to examine the impact of intimate partner violence (IPV) on women's social participation. The study found that social participation in all categories contracted dramatically during IPV and, in most cases, never regained pre-violence levels. The study also found that following initial social withdrawal, many women went on to reengage in new ways, including through political activism on gendered violence, revealing how failures on the part of the state and community to adequately respond to IPV can lead to new forms of participatory citizenship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis is related to adverse quality of life (QoL) and wellbeing outcomes. The way in which endometriosis is perceived by individuals experiencing the condition has not been directly considered, yet illness perceptions (IPs) are predictors of QoL in several chronic conditions. This research aims to gain an understanding of the IPs held by individuals experiencing endometriosis and their impact on QoL. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with 30 UK-based participants sought to gain an understanding of participant experiences and perceptions linked to endometriosis. Three themes were constructed through reflexive thematic analysis: a life disrupted; lost sense of self; and complex emotional responses. Largely negative IPs were held by individuals experiencing endometriosis which, along with endometriosis-specific symptoms, fuelled fears for the future and reduced QoL. IP-based interventions may support the QoL of those experiencing endometriosis whilst effective treatment is sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate kidney recipients' experiences within deceased and living donation contexts and, in the latter, by donor relationship type, to identify differences by context and mechanisms by which the relationship with the donor may impact recipients' psychosocial well-being. Individual interviews were conducted with 12 participants and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Three themes emerged: (a) salience of and sensitivity toward sacrifice and loss, (b) honoring the sacrifice by honoring the gift, and (c) relational imbalance mirroring perceived burden of donation. Findings were contextualized in relation to the transplantation literature, and their clinical implications discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Financial knowledge often does not translate into financial well-being. This study looks at how knowledge might be converted to well-being for people living in low-income environments, based on a theory called Financial PSS. Methods: The study tests the validity of the two scales that make up Financial PSS: Perceived Financial Barriers and Financial Hope. Then it examines how these measures along with an intervention measure called TIP are associated with financial capability. Results: Results validated the Perceived Financial Barrier Scale and Financial Hope Scale. Next, the study found that the Perceived Financial Barriers Scale and the Financial Hope Scale are associated with financial capability, as is the TIP score. Conclusions: The study concludes that Financial PSS as a newly applied practice-based theory should be further tested. Workforce providers could integrate financial education and empowerment-based F-PSS process models and see a positive impact on their placement and retention outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drivers in the long-haul trucking industry have chronic health conditions, engage in unhealthy behaviors, and leave the industry at high rates. Previous work has not considered the health and safety outcomes resulting from the conditions of work in the trucking industry and their role in turnover. The goal of this study was to understand the expectations of an incoming workforce, explore how work conditions impact their well-being, and identify strategies for retention. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted among current long-haul drivers and supervisors at trucking companies, and students and instructors at trucking schools (n = 33). Participants were asked about why they decided to enter the industry, their health challenges related to being in the trucking industry and whether these challenges were related to turnover, and strategies for retention. Findings: Health conditions, differences in job expectations, and work demands were associated with leaving the industry. Workplace policies and culture (e.g., lack of supervisor support, schedules that limited home time, company size, and lack of benefits) were associated with workers' intention to leave an organization. Strategies identified to improve retention included integrating health and wellness into onboarding, creating realistic job expectations for those entering the industry, establishing relationships with drivers and dispatchers, and developing policies to limit time away from family. Conclusion/Application to Practice: Turnover in the trucking industry is a persistent problem and leads to a shortage of skilled workers, increases the workload, and reduces productivity. Understanding the relationship between the conditions of work and well-being provides a more holistic approach to address the health, safety, and well-being of long-haul truck drivers. Health conditions, differences in job expectations, and work demands were associated with leaving the industry. Workplace policies and culture (e.g., supervisor support, schedules that limited home time, lack of benefits) were associated with workers' intention to leave an organization. These conditions provide an opportunity for occupational health interventions to promote the physical as well as psychological health of long-haul truck drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Violence during childbirth indirectly contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. It also causes intrapartum health consequences such as prolonged labor, postpartum hemorrhage, and postpartum psychological problems, including postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other negative feelings that lead to a decreased desire for facility delivery and increase the events of home deliveries which reduce the quality of life. In Tanzania, several efforts have been made to promote respectful maternity care. However, violence during childbirth continues to create a critical barrier for facility-based delivery and is in need of considerable attention throughout the health system. Objectives: This study aimed to assess types of intrapartum violence and its determinants among postnatal women in the Dodoma Region, Tanzania. Design: A cross-sectional study using a questionnaire to interview postnatal women at the exit point after being discharged from the health facility to assess intrapartum violence and its determinants. Methods: This study was conducted in Dodoma Region involving 307 postnatal women from April to June 2022. A simple random method was used to select respondents. The Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to assess the association between the categorical variables. The predictors of intrapartum violence were determined using binary logistic regression analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25.0. P < 0.05 was considered to be significant. Results: Overall, 307 postnatal women participated in the study. Among them, 158 (51.5%) postnatal women experienced at least one form of intrapartum violence. The most common forms of intrapartum violence included breach of confidentiality 205 (66.8%), undignified care/verbal abuse 178 (58%), physical abuse 139 (45.3%), and denial or neglected care by midwives 113 (36.8%). Husband employment, urban residence, and being referred from primary hospitals were significant determinants associated with intrapartum violence (adjusted odds ratio = 0.233, 95% confidence interval = 0.057–0.952, p = 0.043, adjusted odds ratio = 2.67, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–10.93, p = 0.026 and adjusted odds ratio = 3.673, 95% confidence interval = 1.131–11.934, p = 0.030, respectively). Conclusion: Violence during childbirth was highly prevalent in this study. Understanding the prevalence and types of intrapartum violence is important in order to promote changes in all levels of the health system. This study reveals the need for key interventions to effect change at many levels; including an interventional study to educate women and birth partners on client rights, and strengthening the health system to meet the needs of women during labor and childbirth. Policies and systems that support respectful maternity care are urgently needed in this setting, including universal training of health professionals in respectful maternity care [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is a common chronic health condition in children that necessitates close monitoring and care. Parents face numerous challenges when caring for children with T1DM, particularly at home owing to self-care. There is little information available about Arab parents' experiences and educational needs when caring for children with TIDM. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and educational needs of Arab parental caregivers in Saudi Arabia who live with and care for children diagnosed with T1DM. An inductive qualitative descriptive design was used in this study. The data were amassed over a 4 month period through audio-recorded semi-structured interviews with 16 Arab parents of children aged 18 years and under who had been diagnosed with T1DM within the previous 6 months. Data were analyzed through a qualitative content analysis. The results could be classified into 3 categories related to the parents' experience of caring for a child newly diagnosed with T1DM and their educational needs and can be described as follows: (1) management of uncertainty regarding T1DM; (2) management of new daily life situations; and (3) self-care management within the family. The Arab parents of children with T1DM accentuated the need for continuous professional support to manage uncertainty due to changes in everyday life situations. The findings confirmed the significance of culturally and contextually relevant education regarding T1DM for parents, children, and school personnel. Educational interventions and support in the community are recommended to improve daily life situations for families and children with T1DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has been harmful to survivors of abuse. Less understood is the impact on staff in the violence against women (VAW) service sector. Using interpretive description methodology, we examined staff experiences during the pandemic in Ontario, Canada, and found four core themes: (1) the emotional toll of the work; (2) remote (doesn't) work; (3) work restructuring; (4) efforts to stay well and subthemes nuancing staff experiences in a sector vulnerable to vicarious trauma. This research underscores the need to mitigate experiences of stress, heavy workloads, and guilt for staff in VAW services during crises and provides action-oriented recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical device that treats advanced heart failure. Patients coping with an LVAD need extensive instrumental and medical support, which is usually provided by the spouse. Therefore, it seems that dyadic coping strategies play a crucial role as either mitigators or hinderers of couples' illness management in the context of LVADs. The aim of this research was to formulate a typology of dyadic coping strategies applied by these couples, as unfolded in their mutual and individual subjective experiences. The research was performed in collaboration with an LVAD implantation unit at a medium-sized hospital in Israel. Couples (N = 17) participated in an in-depth dyadic interview using a semi-structured interview guide, and the data collected were analyzed using content analysis. Our findings suggest that couples coping with an LVAD develop strategies for handling fear, processing and accepting their illness narratives, adjusting their level of independence and intimacy, and utilizing humor. Moreover, our analysis showed that each couple utilized a unique mix of dyadic coping strategies. To the best of our knowledge, the current study is the first to explore the dyadic coping strategies of couples coping with an LVAD. Our results may constitute a base for developing dyadic intervention programs and clinical recommendations to improve the quality of life and relationships of patients and their spouses while coping with LVAD implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Interpreting during the COVID-19 pandemic caused stress and adverse mental health among sign language interpreters. The objective of this study was to summarize the pandemic-related work experiences of sign language interpreters and interpreting administrators upon transitioning from on-site to remote work. Methods: From March through August 2021, we conducted focus groups with 22 sign language interpreters in 5 settings, 1 focus group for each setting: staff, educational, community/freelance, video remote interpreting, and video relay services. We also conducted 5 individual interviews with interpreting administrators or individuals in positions of administrative leadership in each represented setting. The 22 interpreters had a mean (SD) age of 43.4 (9.8) years, 18 were female, 17 were White, all identified as hearing, and all worked a mean (SD) of 30.6 (11.6) hours per week in remote interpreting. We asked participants about the positive and negative consequences of transitioning from on-site to remote at-home interpreting. We established a thematic framework by way of qualitative description for data analysis. Results: We found considerable overlap across positive and negative consequences identified by interpreters and interpreting administrators. Positive consequences of transitioning from on-site to remote-at-home interpreting were realized across 5 overarching topic areas: organizational support, new opportunities, well-being, connections/relationships, and scheduling. Negative consequences emerged across 4 overarching topic areas: technology, financial aspects, availability of the interpreter workforce, and concerns about the occupational health of interpreters. Conclusions: The positive and negative consequences shared by interpreters and interpreting administrators provide foundational knowledge upon which to create recommendations for the anticipated sustainment of some remote interpreting practice in a manner that protects and promotes occupational health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study characterizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and physical health of nurses. Qualitative data (collected using semi-structured interviews) were integrated with quantitative data (collected concurrently using the SF-12 Health Survey). Nurses (N = 30) compared their health prior to and during the first pandemic wave (March–May 2020). Interviews were analyzed thematically; descriptive statistics and t -tests compared pre-pandemic to current SF-12 scores. Qualitative findings demonstrated an impact on nurses' mental health expressed as isolation, loss, intense emotions, and feelings of being expendable. Impact on nurses' physical health included exhaustion, personal protective equipment skin breakdown, limited breaks from work, and virus exposure. Quantitative results show nurses' experienced declines in overall mental health (p <.001), and multiple physical health domains: role limitations due to physical problems (p <.0001), bodily pain (p <.0001), and general health (p <.0001). Promotion of nurses' well-being and safety, as well as education in emergency preparedness, must be given precedence to protect nurses' health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Autism Voices study draws on novel inclusive methods to obtain the first-person experiences of autistic youth with a range of cognitive and verbal abilities. Thirty-one autistic youth were interviewed with a strength-based protocol, enabling them to provide responses in the modality of their choice. Dynamics between youth and their environments such as home, school, and community were explored. Youth were questioned about their interests, plans for the future, experiences with various emotions, and experience of autism. Based on a thematic analysis, six themes emerged: (1) autistic identities, (2) thinking about the future, (3) seeking social connection on their own terms, (4) seeking autonomy, (5) school as both a stressor and social facilitator, and (6) experiences of stress and anxiety. The experiences described by autistic youth parallel many of the aspirations and challenges of typically developing adolescents, while being uniquely shaped by their autism. We discuss how these insights shared by autistic youth can facilitate active involvement in their communities, promote well-being, and promote optimal transition into adulthood. Autism Voices demonstrates that partnering with multiple stakeholders and the use of inclusive methodologies are pivotal steps toward capturing the voices of all autistic youth. Currently, our understanding of the adolescent period for autistic youth has relied on the expertise of researchers, clinicians, parents, and teachers, yet rarely involves their unique first-person experiences. Our study attempted to understand the experiences and perspectives of autistic adolescents in their home, school, and community environments using the Autism Voices protocol, a semi-structured interview specifically designed and tailored to engage with autistic youth with various language and intellectual levels. The analysis of the 31 interviews conducted with autistic adolescents aged 11–18 years highlighted six themes: (1) autistic identities, (2) thinking about the future, (3) seeking social connection on their own terms, (4) seeking autonomy, (5) school as both a stressor and social facilitator, and (6) experiences of stress and anxiety. These results highlight similarities and differences in the adolescent experiences of autistic youth compared to their typically developing peers. Our findings suggest that by removing assumptions about the experiences of autistic individuals and investing in inclusive interview methods, we can faithfully capture the experiences of autistic youth regardless of their communication and cognitive abilities. Being able to capture and amplify these diverse voices will facilitate the active involvement of autistic communities in research and clinical and policy decisions that impact them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current qualitative study aimed to examine the narrative identities of women bereaved to intimate partner femicide. Eleven adult Israeli female offspring whose biological mothers were murdered by their biological fathers were interviewed for the purpose of this study. Due to the uniqueness of their loss experience and circumstances, participants' identity is narrated as a "trisonance": They are not like their fathers, their mothers, nor as society perceives them. This very particular route for identity reconstruction as a means of psychological survival is discussed in light of the literature on identity construction and bereavement and derives recommendations for practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]