Thai research assistant presents innovative parenting intervention study at Carolinas Psychology Conference

On April 13, 2024, at the Carolinas Psychology Conference (Campbell University, North Carolina), Jeslyn Brouwers, a research assistant from the Parenting on the Thailand/Myanmar Border project delivered a presentation titled "Harnessing Community Insights and Collaboration: Developing a Film-Based Parenting Intervention for Burmese Migrant Families in Thailand." The presentation aimed to explore the use of formative qualitative research in developing a novel film-based parenting and mental health intervention.

During the presentation, Jeslyn introduced the film and explained how insights from caregiver and adolescent focus groups were integrated to tailor targeted parenting principles to the cultural context of Burmese migrant communities. The film highlighted five key messages: reducing harsh punishment, improving caregiver-child interactions, promoting non-violent discipline, enhancing caregiver coping strategies, and helping parents recognise their children's emotions.

The presentation held personal significance for Jeslyn, who is from Thailand. “Sharing research conducted in my home country with colleagues and scholars in North Carolina was a meaningful experience, particularly as my mother, visiting from Thailand, was able to attend the presentation and learn more about the study”.

Engaging in this research has also inspired Jeslyn to pursue a future career in organisational behavior that is culturally relevant and globally impactful, improving the wellbeing of employees worldwide, including those in Thailand. The opportunity to create this presentation reinforced her passion for psychological research, fueling a desire to build a career where academic research and professional practice continuously inform each other, creating a cycle of meaningful reciprocity.