This study aimed to assess the vulnerabilities of young Jamaican children in the first few months after the COVID-19 pandemic emerged in Jamaica in March 2020. The study participants (n = 649) were identified from a sub-sample of 1,311 families from an existing national, population-based Jamaican birth cohort of 9,500 children and families. The…

Existing research in Jamaica on children and families has focused on family structure and function. The recent worldwide focus on the rights of children, particularly young children, has highlighted the absence of research on child rights in Jamaica. This article explores the implementation of protection and participation rights within the family,…

This study assesses levels of parent-child interaction, and the impact of poverty and parental stress, using data from a national survey of Jamaican parenting practices. It reveals that 1 in every 4 parents feels trapped/controlled by their responsibilities, with the poor at increased risk of experiencing high levels of stress and their children…

This paper discusses the socialization within the family and school in Jamaica and other Caribbean nations. It examines the characteristics of Caribbean families, citing the effects of high levels of poverty and teenage pregnancy on family life. Child rearing practices, especially among the lower-class, emphasize discipline, corporal punishment,…

Examines child-rearing techniques of Jamaican adults and their assumed effects on child outcomes. Also examines the plausibility of the assumption that harsh physical punishment meted out to children is partially responsible for current social problems of that nation. Recommends approaches to tackle the broad goals of addressing familial and…

Reports a project which tested participatory drama and lecture-discussion programs as possible methods of providing parent education to West Indian parent groups. (NH)