4: Mind the Kids - Parent plus child factors, does it add up?
We’re excited to share the latest episode of Mind the Kids, hosted by Dr. Jane Gilmore (UCL) and Professor Umar Toseeb (University of York). This episode dives into the complex relationship between parenting styles and infant characteristics, exploring whether their influences on child development are simply additive-or something more nuanced.
Joined by special guest Dr. Robert Eves (Bielefeld University), we discuss groundbreaking research using large, nationally representative datasets to unpack how parenting and child traits interact. We also break down key theoretical models-like diathesis-stress, vantage sensitivity, and differential susceptibility-in accessible language, with practical takeaways for parents, practitioners, and researchers alike.
Whether you’re a parent, academic, or professional in child development, tune in for evidence-based insights and a thoughtful discussion on what really shapes children’s outcomes.
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42:05
3: Mind the Kids – Mental Health: Best mates and Classmates
What happens when friendships become the cornerstone of childhood mental health? In this episode of Mind the Kids – Mental Health: Best mates and Classmates, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb, joined by Dr. Tom Wu, unravel the powerful connections between peer relationships and emotional wellbeing in young people.
From the playground to the classroom, the trio explores how friendships evolve, why quality matters more than quantity, and how popularity can shape – or sometimes complicate – the social landscape. They discuss the complex, two-way relationship between mental health and friendships, revealing how emotional struggles can make it harder to connect, while strong friendships can buffer against adversity.
The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding cultural differences in friendship dynamics and why interventions that put mental health first can lead to better social outcomes. With practical insights for educators and a call for emotional literacy programs in schools, this episode offers a fresh perspective on why supporting children’s social worlds is key to nurturing resilient, mentally healthy young people.
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35:44
2: Mind the Kids - Autism diagnosis: The long and winding road
In this episode, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb unravel the complexities of autism diagnosis, shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked gender differences and the unique mental health challenges faced by autistic youth. With autism identification rates on the rise and growing recognition of co-occurring conditions, the discussion explores why so many autistic children and young people-especially girls-are missed, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood.
Dr. Miriam Martini joins to share her research on how psychiatric diagnoses often precede autism identification, revealing the critical need for earlier recognition and tailored support. Together, they delve into why autistic girls are frequently diagnosed later than boys, how anxiety and the pressure to fit in can mask autistic traits, and how diagnostic overshadowing can leave mental health needs unmet.
Tune in for a nuanced look at why understanding the interplay between gender, co-occurring conditions, and mental health is essential-not just for accurate diagnosis, but for ensuring every autistic young person receives the support they deserve.
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26:37
1: Mind the Kids - Should we be worried about the Manosphere?
In the premiere episode of Mind the Kids, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb delve into the world of the Manosphere—an online space where misogynistic content is widespread, especially among young men. Together with Professor Harriet Over, they examine the mental health implications, the growing concerns of educators, and the urgent need for research and community-specific interventions.
The episode unpacks how online influence shapes gender attitudes, the complexities of radicalisation, and the critical role of positive male role models. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding young people's motivations and the impact of social media algorithms in spreading harmful content.
Key Takeaways
The Manosphere poses a real concern for the mental health of young men.
Misogynistic content is increasingly accessible and influential online.
Educators are noticing the effects and express growing concern about the Manosphere’s reach.
There is a pressing need for more research to understand the Manosphere and its effects.
The relationship between consuming online content and developing misogynistic attitudes is complex and not always direct.
Effective interventions must be tailored to the unique needs of different communities.
Positive male role models are essential to counteract harmful online influences.
It is vital to create safe spaces for open conversations about misogyny and gender attitudes.
Understanding what draws young people to these communities is key to designing effective solutions.
Social media algorithms play a significant role in what content young people see and engage with.
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37:48
Safer Use of Antipsychotics in Youth
What is the culture around prescribing antipsychotics to young people? Are there concerns around over-prescribing antipsychotics in young people? How can we reduce antipsychotics use in children and adolescents? All this and more answered as Jo Carlowe interviews Dr. Robert Penfold about the Safer Use of Antipsychotics in Youth (SUAY) pragmatic trial, as published in the JCPP.
These podcasts are an invaluable resource for anyone interested in child and adolescent mental health. They bridge the gap between rigorous research and practical application, featuring expert discussions on mental health. Each episode highlights cutting-edge studies offering insights into findings, and implications for practice.
The series caters to clinicians, researchers, and those interested in mental health. Available on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, it’s an accessible way to stay informed about advancements in the field.
Visit our website (https://www.acamh.org/) for a host of free evidence-based mental health resources.
Ireland