Authors:هالة عبد الماجد محمد الأحمدي Abstract: Lack of flexible working hours policies impact on working parents’ relationship with their children and affect children’s wellbeing. Many parents are unable to drive their children to/from school due to lack of these policies in their workplace. This Policy Brief sheds light on a study prepared by Doha International Family Institute (DIFI) on "Engaging Parents in Children Commute to and from School: Challenges and Policy Implications" (2023), which was based on "Connect Your Children" campaign launched by Aman Center (Qatar). DIFI’s study sought to encourage parents to take active role in children commute to school; reducing dependency on domestic workers in carrying out this task, as well as urging employers to support working parents through provision of flexible working arrangements and relevant facilities at workplace. That DIFI study (2023) adopted qualitative methodology notably in-depth interviews with respondents to investigate the involvement of parents in children commute. Snowball method was deployed to identify study’s participants in addition to utilization of the database of Protection and Social Rehabilitation Centre (AMAN). The study’s sample consisted of 110 parents of both sexes, including 48 Qatari respondents (36 females, 12 males) and 62 non-Qatari respondents of different Arab nationalities (34 females and 28 male) living in the State of Qatar. The study sample was divided into three categories: those who always engage in commuting their children, those who sometimes engage in their children commute to school, and those who do not accompany their children in their commute to school at all. The study came up with several recommendations to policy makers, the most important one is the need of adoption of flexible work policies at workplace notably flexible working hours. Other recommendations included provision of childcare at the workplace, organizing traffic, and adoption of a policy to ensure harmonization and coordination of parents working hours with school hours to enable parents to take active role in children commute to school. PubDate: 2024-06-30T00:00:00Z
Authors:Ahlam Ayoub Abstract: In the Middle East and North Africa region, including Palestine, the current teaching reforming trend toward international accountability and standards adoption is grounded by economic globalization. The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) in Palestine has been committed to attaining such a movement. With the aim of qualifying teachers, the national “Teacher Education Strategy” (TES) has been launched. This study examines the TES implementation process in Palestine. The implementation research is a critical aspect in analyzing the rationality, dynamism, and complexity of policy processes. Based on the case study methodology and utilization of a multi-disciplinary framework, the researcher gathered and comprehended the data. Zoom interviews and document analysis were applied for data collection. Moreover, the developed analytic model enabled the researcher to delve into the implementation process by examining aspects such as communication enforcement, delivery structure, policy objectives, roles and disposition of implementers, and socio-economic and political factors. However, a collective effort to reform teacher education has been hindered by several factors. Neoliberal policies and external influences, alongside political and economic restrictions, as well as the centralized and vertical structure of the MoEHE, have complicated Palestinians’ vision for decentralization in education. These challenges have impeded the development of a modern education system. Despite the many accomplishments, the core element of TES objectives has not been achieved yet. For authentic implementation, this research argues for an interaction of global and local discourses to achieve a higher consistency between the implementation goals and outcomes. It recommends a multiple-case design and comparative future studies. PubDate: 2024-06-30T00:00:00Z
Authors:No authors listed Abstract: Retraction NoticeRetraction notice to “The consequences of caring for older people at home in Qatar: exploring the stresses and joys of caregiving” [DIFI Journal, Volume 2023, Issue 1]No authors listed DOI : https://doi.org/10.5339/difi.2023.7Published: 12 March 2024The article with the above-mentioned title, DOI : https://doi.org/10.5339/difi.2023.7, published online on 15 February 2023, has been retracted due to disputed authorship.Cite as: Retraction notice to “The consequences of caring for older people at home in Qatar: exploring the stresses and joys of caregiving.” Doha International Family Institute Journal 2023:(2). https://doi.org/10.5339/difi.2024.retraction.11 PubDate: 2024-03-12T00:00:00Z
Authors:Ahmed Aref; Sharifa Noaman Al-Emadi Abstract: The absence of measurable indicators for family well-being poses significant challenges in the Arab context. Without a standardized framework for assessment, it becomes difficult to identify areas of concern and allocate resources effectively. Moreover, the lack of quantifiable data hinders the development of targeted interventions and policy initiatives aimed at promoting family well-being. Hence, the establishment of measurable indicators for family well-being is a critical step towards promoting strong, resilient families in the Arab region. By providing a comprehensive framework for assessment, monitoring, and comparison, these indicators can inform policy decisions, enhance intervention strategies, and ultimately contribute to the overall well-being of families and individuals across the region. This article delves into the intricate landscape of family well-being, exploring its diverse dimensions and critically examining the gaps in the existing indexes and the role of measurable indicators in guiding effective interventions and policy decisions. Addressing the urgent need for measurable indicators, this article outlines a novel family well-being index for the region. Comprising three pillars – economic security, emotional well-being, and social connectedness – and relying on 12 practical indicators, the index provides a foundational framework for comprehensive assessment, data-driven interventions, and informed policy decisions. This framework offers a concrete step towards promoting family well-being and fostering a thriving future for families across the region. PubDate: 2024-01-31T00:00:00Z
Authors:Sabika Shaban; Hira Amin Abstract: Children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (CWNDs) are reported to face far greater challenges, which result in worse outcomes, than children with physical disabilities. Very few studies quantify the cost of disability around the world, and to date no study has been based on CWNDs in Qatar. Through an in-depth quantitative and qualitative analysis, this study explores the financial dynamics of 15 families with CWNDs in Qatar. It examines the met and unmet costs related to medical care, education, and everyday well-being. Quantitatively, within the small sample, the total disability price tag of raising CWNDs in Qatar was found to be between QAR 2,700 and 40,000 per month, which can represent between 15 and 420% of the average family’s median income. From a qualitative perspective, financial difficulties played a central role in raising a child with a disability. This factor was also exacerbated in cases where families had good financial capacity. The lack of inclusive and affordable educational institutes and recreational activities, as well as irregular, spaced apart, or outdated modes of treatment were other significant challenges they faced. The study concludes with policy recommendations for these three areas. PubDate: 2023-12-31T00:00:00Z
Authors:Azza. O. Abdelmoneium; Heba Al Fara, Fatima Motawaa, Aisha Al Sultan, Sanaa Al-Harahsheh Ahmed Baghdady Abstract: This article explores the challenges and coping strategies associated with the excessive use of technology among adolescents in Qatar from the perspective of parents. The article presents the qualitative findings of a 2021-2022 study conducted on the overuse of technology by adolescents in Qatar. The original study followed a mixed-method approach: investigating the experiences of adolescents and their parents, and the use of technology in their lives. The study found that the excessive use of technology among adolescents in Qatar is a major concern for the family, leading to negative consequences such as isolation, poor performance at school, health problems, and social disintegration. These challenges can cause not only family instability but also further complications in the lives of adolescents in the long run.Thus, some coping strategies need to be developed by parents to mitigate the negative effects of excessive use of technology among adolescents such as control, building trust, entertainment, and discussion. Such strategies encourage alternative forms of social interaction with the family and avoidance of technology. This article provides valuable insights into the challenges, negative impacts, and coping strategies parents can use to promote healthy well-being among the younger generation. We argue that implementing appropriate educational programs for adolescents and parents would mitigate challenges and promote the development of healthy lifestyles and habits, including the creation of leisure activities to reduce reliance on technology. PubDate: 2023-12-31T00:00:00Z
Authors:Aisha Al Sultan; Azza O. Abdelmoneium, Joseph G. Grzywacz Peipei Hong Abstract: Oman’s economy has grown tremendously in recent decades. Social development and educational progress have both paved the way for greater participation of women in the labor force, leading to challenges in the work-life balance. Working women are torn between responsibilities in the home and workplace, creating a demand for new social development, employment law and work policies, and a redefinition of family dynamics. The research project outlined in this paper has sought to highlight each of these issues. Its findings are based on a qualitative study conducted in 2017 on a sample of working Omanis, addressing the principal challenges that Omani women face related to achieving their aspirations in regard to work and family life. Based on the data, the study concludes that greater flexibility in working arrangements for Omani women would ease the stress and exhaustion that inhibit them from attaining an effective work-life balance within the arena of these activities. PubDate: 2023-05-28T00:00:00Z
Authors:Hala A. M. Al-Ahmadi; Khalid J. Al-Naama Abstract: Myths and misconceptions about the causes of domestic violence against women constitute major obstacles to combating it. Understanding what causes a social problem is the first step toward introducing policy measures and developing a prevention and response mechanism to address and mitigate its occurrence and impact. This article is based on a study conducted by the Doha International Family Institute (DIFI) on “Domestic Violence against Women in Qatar”, which adopted the methodology of an analytical desk review of secondary sources on domestic violence in Qatar, from 2020 to 2021. The article investigates the causes of “domestic violence”, as explained by the current theories that constitute the knowledge base for this subject. Due to the importance of this matter for policy-making, the main objective of such exploration has been to uncover myths and refute the common misconceptions and information that tried to explain the root causes of domestic violence. The study showed that all of these theories are tainted by defects and flaws; to address their shortcomings, the “Power and Control Wheel Theory” was presented, which clarified that the act of violence and harm is an “intended act”. Within this context, this article argues that root causes of violence are not attributed to mental illness, drug or alcohol abuse, or poverty; neither are they ascribed to "loss of control" or “anger management” issues. Violence is seen as an integral part of a systematic pattern of deliberate behavior aimed at initiating and maintaining “power and control” over the victim. Further to that, the article shows how myths and misconceptions impact policy-making, suggesting that prevention and intervention efforts on this subject should be guided by notions that emphasize the “intentionality” of domestic violence in order to increase women’s safety and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. PubDate: 2023-02-15T00:00:00Z
Authors:Azza. O. Abdelmoneium; Sylvia M. Asay John DeFrain Abstract: Families remain the most essential unit in every community. Previous studies have found similarities among research with families globally that identify the characteristics of strong families. This article aims to characterize the strengths and challenges of families in three Arab countries (Qatar, Jordan, and Tunisia). The research will also help to identify implications for policy in the Arab region. Data were collected using focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The use of a thematic approach helped in the analysis of the data across the three countries. The themes that emerged as strengths included respect, love, responsibility, support, good communication, conveying traditions, and resilience. Family challenges included financial concerns, negative outside influences, change in traditions and values, absent/disengaged fathers, and poor communication and conflict. Implications for policy and future research are discussed. PubDate: 2023-02-15T00:00:00Z
Authors:Diab Al-Badayneh; Dana El Kahlout Aydah AbuTayeh Abstract: This paper provides an analysis of three focus group discussions (FGDs) held in Morocco, Jordan, and Oman, with a specific focus on the importance of fathers' involvement in the programs. Data is based on the 2021 Doha International Family Institute study entitled “Parenting Programs in the Arab Region” conducted by the Ibn Khaldun Center for Research and Studies, Jordan. It begins with the information currently accessible based on assessing pertinent literature on parenting education programs. Members participated in the FGDs to explore their experiences with parenting programs and how those programs affected their parenting knowledge and skills. All three focus group sessions were only attended by women, reinforcing the perception of traditional gender roles and obligations. The paper concludes with recommendations toward the promotion of fathers’ involvement in programs, such as enacting paternity and parental laws, involving religious clerics that can advocate for the importance of father involvement during Friday prayers. PubDate: 2023-02-15T00:00:00Z
Authors:Heba Al Fara Abstract: Pediatric psychosocial care approaches are used to advocate for family and child strength and durability in health scenarios and to improve the overall well-being of children impacted by severe medical situations. This article focuses on family-focused care in pediatric psychosocial services in Qatar. Using secondary sources, this desk review advocates for a family-centered care approach to support hospitalized children, their families, and the healthcare provision team in pediatric psychosocial care. It argues that if improvements are made to four main areas including education and training, healthcare environment, financial support and advocacy, and future research and audits, Qatar’s pediatric psychosocial care program would more effectively cater to evidence-based child and family-friendly approaches. This article concludes by providing policy recommendations for Qatar’s pediatric psychosocial care provision. PubDate: 2023-02-15T00:00:00Z
Authors:Azza. O. Abdelmoneium Abstract: Qatar is witnessing demographic changes, which are leading to an increase in the number of elderly people. This will put more burden on the families and increase their responsibility to take care of the old people. The aim of the research is to investigate the consequences of caring for elderly people and explore the stresses and joys of caregiving. The results of this article are derived from a qualitative descriptive study conducted in 2016. This article shows that the main source of stress for the caregivers is the absence of formal supportive policies that would help them in the caregiving process. Addressing this omission would help to alleviate some of the issues related to caregiving. The results show that stresses have caused burdens, including feeling of guilt, sadness, frustration, isolation, and loneliness. Coping strategies and the positives of caregiving included withdrawal, surrender, engaging in activity, and meditation. Despite the stresses and burdens of caregiving, caregivers found joy and positive impact from taking care of their elderly family members, but a gap in formal support needs to be filled. PubDate: 2023-02-15T00:00:00Z
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