SFI Lero and Breakthrough Cancer Research Digital tools such as discussion boards, apps and websites are often noted as leading sources of cancer misinformation. This misinformation might pertain to prevention of cancer, screening outcomes and treatment options. In the  current digital era, many patients unsurprisingly seek out information via the internet. It is unrealistic to expect patients to avoid online information pertaining to a diagnosis they have received, which makes it all the more important to equip patients with the tools to evaluate information they are engaging with.

SoAP PhD student, Billy Fitzgerald, and co-authors, Christopher McCusker, Maria Dempsey, and Audrey Dunn Galvin, recently published a research paper in the Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Emotional and behavioural difficulties including depression, anxiety, and hyperactivity are elevated in autistic children (AC). Family processes of a psychological nature are associated with these difficulties, but the direction of influence is uncertain. We searched seven bibliographic databases for prospective, quantitative studies on the impact of family processes across the parent, dyad, and family system levels on the later well-being of AC without intellectual disability, across a minimum of six months. Eligible studies were extracted following PRISMA guidelines and narratively synthesised. Sixteen of the 17 studies included for review reported significant associations between at least one family process and later well-being. Parenting stress and aspects of the parent–child relationship yielded most robust associations. Weaker support was found for parent mental health problems. Clinical and research implications are discussed. Read in full here

Please join us in celebrating Celebrating 25 Years of Early Years for the 'Looking Back, Looking Forward' Conference:10 March 2023 at the Dora Allman Room, Student Hub Building, UCC. Sign in time: 9.00am Attendance Fee: €10; to register please scan the QR Code below. Keynote Speakers Dr. Ionna Palaiologou, Centre for Psychological Approaches for Studying Education, University of Bristol Geraldine French, Associate Professor School of Language, Literacy & Early Childhood Education, DCU Máire Mhic Mhathúna, Chairperson Qualifications Advisory Board for the Early Learning and Care Sector