Exploring experiential influences on cognitive and neurodevelopment in infants and young children living with chronic health conditions

Abstract

This research portfolio presents a comprehensive literature review exploring the existing knowledge on how stress presents itself in infants and young children with Chronic Health Conditions (CHCs) in addition to the impact of such stress on neurodevelopment. Three bibliographic databases were searched: SCOPUS, PubMed and Psycinfo. Key findings were summarised to include statistical data and themes. A total of 8 papers were initially identified through systematic searching and form the basis of this narrative review. Results were categorised into the following: The Hospital Context, Perceptions of Healthcare Staff, Family Structure, Brain Structure and Function and Emotion, Development and Behaviour. Findings suggest that the role of stress on neurodevelopment in infants and young children living with CHCs is complex and multifaceted. Clinical implications have been discussed.

Secondly, an empirical investigation was conducted to gain an understanding of potential factors shaping mother and child experiences influencing cognitive development in preschoolers living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD). A qualitative design employing the use of purposeful sampling methods was used. 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) was used in the transcription of interviews. Interviews were coded and organised into 4 superordinate themes to include: ‘The Diagnosis,’ ‘Interactions with the Healthcare System,’ ‘A Transformative Experience’ and ‘The Infant Experience’. The findings highlight the emotional impact of receiving a CHD diagnosis, influencing mothers' perceptions of the challenges ahead. The lack of support and information about CHD, particularly within the context of a strained National Health Service (NHS) and Health Service Executive (HSE), dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic offered up-to-date perspective and consideration of these factors on infant cognitive development. Initiatives to improve communication and information provision for mothers, in addition to important follow-up procedures have been recommended.

Date of Award	Dec 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Supervisor	Pauline Adair (Supervisor) & David McCormack (Supervisor)