Congratulations to ARCH Lab MSc student, Chris Barclay, on the successful defense of his thesis.

Chris’ project focused on perceived differential parenting and childhood physical-mental multimorbidity in the MY LIFE cohort. Notable findings indicate:

• Higher perceived maternal affection toward children with a chronic physical illness (relative to their siblings) was associated with decreased reports of internalizing symptoms (e.g. anxiety and depression).
• Among participating children with an older sibling, higher perceived maternal affection toward themselves (relative to their older sibling) was associated with decreased reports of internalizing symptoms. However, this association was not observed among participating children with a younger sibling.
• Higher perceived maternal affection toward participating children (relative to their siblings) was significantly associated with decreased reports of both internalizing and externalizing (e.g. ADHF, conduct disorder) symptoms via five domains of self-concept; scholastic competence, social competence, athletic competence, behavioural conduct, and global self-worth.
  

Chris notes that his research has implications for the provision of family-centered approaches to healthcare for children with chronic physical illnesses. Specifically, it underscores the importance of evidence-based interventions that promote authoritative parenting.

Congratulations Chris!