Harsh Physical Discipline: Prevalence and Associated Factors Among Primary Caregivers of Pre-school Children in Ethiopia.

Harsh parental discipline is ineffective and potentially harmful to children, yet it is still common, particularly in many African countries. Culturally responsive education programs are needed to shift parenting practices in African countries, but there is limited baseline research to inform such efforts. This study's objectives were to establish the baseline prevalence of harsh physical discipline practices among primary caregivers of pre-school children in Ethiopia and to identify associated factors to inform intervention efforts.

Epidemiological study of a developmentally and culturally sensitive preschool intervention to improve school readiness of children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background: Early childhood is a dynamic period of physical, psychosocial and cognitive development, where age appropriate intervention during the preschool years influences psychosocial, behavioural and academic achievement of children. This study evaluated the impact of a comprehensive preschool intervention on psychosocial, cognitive and behavioural school preparedness among children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods: Employing a cluster-sampling design, 150 preschool children who received the basic preschool curriculum (non-intervention) were compared with 100 randomly selected children who received a comprehensive preschool curriculum (intervention) using the Early Development Instrument (EDI) in five domains.

Use of the WHO's Perceived Well-Being Index (WHO-5) as an efficient and potentially valid screen for depression in a low income country.

: Depression is associated with negative social, economic, and family outcomes and the majority of individuals with depression in low and middle income countries (LMICs) are untreated. A critical first step in bridging the treatment gap is accurate, feasible, and culturally appropriate screening to identify those who need treatment. The WHO's Perceived Well-Being Index (WHO-5) well-being instrument can potentially meet the screening needs of LMICs in primary care and community-based settings.