PhD projects available at CCCH

Early childhood aetiology of common mental health problems: A population study

The problem
Behaviour and emotional problems affect 1 in 7 Australian children aged 4-17 years. These problems can begin in the early years of life, with ~50% of preschool problems then persisting through childhood. Negative sequelae include family stress, academic and friendship problems, school dropout, substance misuse, depression, family violence, crime, and employment problems. In order to develop effective primary prevention programs it is essential to understand the aetiology of externalising and internalising problems within the early childhood years and at a population level.

The proposal
A CCCH longitudinal study commencing 2004 (Toddlers Without Tears) recruited a population-based sample of 733 infants via the universal Maternal and Child Health service. These families have been followed to child age 3 years with excellent retention (80%). Findings to date indicated maternal stress and negative parenting practices are the primary, cumulative predictors of early externalising and internalising difficulties. The proposal is to continue this aetiology research following children through to 6 years (school-entry). Measures will include child, parenting and family factors; with multi-source (i.e. mother, father, preschool teacher, and child self-report) as appropriate. Family service use and needs in the community around mental health and behaviour will also be detailed.

The person
Would require strong (preferably H1 Honours) degree in psychology, or a paediatrician with strong research interest and background.

The prospects
This longitudinal study is a central plank of our wider research program to develop and evaluate effective and cost-effective approaches to preventing children in the population from developing mental health problems.

Supervisors
Dr Jordana Bayer, Dr Lesley Bretherton.

For more information contact Dr Jordana Bayer at jordana.bayer@mcri.edu.au

Last Updated 05-Aug-2008. Authorised by: Frank Oberklaid. Enquiries: Penny Miller.