Using a community-engaged research (CEnR) approach to develop and pilot a photo grid method to gain insights into early child health and development in a socio-economic disadvantaged community

Background The aim of this research was to consult with professionals and parents to develop a new research toolkit (Photo Grid), to understand community assets and priorities in relation to early child health and development in Blackpool, a socio-economic disadvantaged community. A Community–Engaged Research (CEnR) approach was used to consult with community members. This paper describes the process of using a CEnR approach in developing a Photo Grid toolkit. Methods A phased CEnR approach was used to design, test and pilot a Photo Grid tool. Members of the Blackpool community; parents with children aged 0–4 years, health professionals, members of the early year’s workforce, and community development workers were involved in the development of the research tool at various stages. They were recruited opportunistically via a venuebased time-space sampling method. In total, 213 parents and 18 professionals engaged in the research process. Results Using a CEnR approach allowed effective engagement with the local community and professionals, evidence by high levels of engagement throughout the development process. This approach improved the acceptability and usability of the resulting Photo Grid toolkit. Community members found the method accessible, engaging, useful, and thought provoking. Conclusions The Photo Grid toolkit was seen by community members as accessible, engaging, useful and thought provoking in an area of high social deprivation, complex problems, and low literacy. The Photo Grid is an adaptable tool which can be used in other areas of socio-economic disadvantage to engage with the community to understand a wide variety of complex topics

The Endorsement of Paranormal and New Age Belief as a Unique Form of Coping

The Psychodynamic Functions Hypothesis (PFH; Irwin, 2009) suggests that paranormal belief develops as a response to experiences of diminished control in childhood, often as a result of trauma or maltreatment. This can become re-activated during adulthood when life is seen to be chaotic or unpredictable as a form of coping. Despite this, only five studies have examined the association between paranormal belief and traditional coping, with mixed results. The current research sought to identify and explore the notion of paranormal coping. Qualitative interviews confirmed the existence of paranormal coping, provided a number of concepts for further exploration, and allowed for item generation for a paranormal coping questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor model, of paranormal coping, which was not confirmed by subsequent data. After several rounds of data collection, and the development and rejection of a three-factor model, a four-factor model of paranormal coping (Cognitive-Orientated Coping, Avoidance-Orientated Coping, Lack of Control, and Practitioner Authenticity) demonstrated the most acceptable model fit. This model was validated using standardised questionnaires and demonstrated good internal subscale reliability. Subsequent analyses partly supported Irwin’s (2009) PFH, however there were some limitations with regards to the measure of perceived childhood control. Individual paranormal coping subscales were also differentially associated with thinking styles, supporting previous research linking paranormal belief with reasoning ability. The current research is particularly important given the prevalence of paranormal belief in the general population. Likewise, understanding the coping mechanisms used by adults who experienced trauma or maltreatment in childhood is essential to provide them with the most appropriate support

Paranormal belief, thinking style preference and susceptibility to confirmatory conjunction errors

This study examines the extent to which belief in extrasensory perception (ESP), psychokinesis (PK) or life after death (LAD), plus need for cognition (NFC) and faith in intuition (FI), predict the generation of confirmatory conjunction errors. An opportunity sample (n = 261) completed sixteen conjunction problems manipulated across a 2 event type (paranormal vs. non-paranormal) × 2 outcome type (confirmatory vs. disconfirmatory) within subjects design. Three Generalised Linear Mixed Models – one per paranormal belief type – were performed. With respondent gender and age controlled for, ESP, PK and LAD beliefs were all associated with the making (vs. non-making) of conjunction errors both generally and specifically for confirmatory conjunctive outcomes. Event type had no impact. Individuals high in NFC were less likely to commit the fallacy. The role thinking style plays in shaping paranormal believers’ susceptibility to confirmatory conjunction biases is discussed. Methodological issues and future research ideas are also considered

Predicting Facets of Adult Paranormality From Childhood Exposure to Inappropriate Styles of Parenting

This study examines the extent to which recalled childhood exposure to three different styles of parental caregiving (rejecting, unresponsive, and overprotective parenting) predict four facets of adult paranormality (self-reported anomalous experiences, beliefs, ability, and fears). Path analysis controlling for respondents’ age and qualifications revealed that more anomalous experiences were a direct predictor of stronger anomalous beliefs which in turn predicted more self-proclaimed anomalous ability, with the latter then predicting, somewhat surprisingly, more anomalous fears. Of the three child-rearing styles, rejecting parenting directly predicted more anomalous experiences as did overprotective parenting (marginally). Also surprisingly, unresponsive parenting directly predicted more anomalous fears. Subsequent indirect (mediating) effects through more anomalous fears, ability, and beliefs also emerged. Findings are discussed in relation to claims that adoption of a paranormal worldview serves as a psychological mechanism for coping with an unhappy or insecure childhood. Methodological limitations and ideas for future research are also considered