Leveraging Social Ecological Insights to Improve Speech-Language Therapy Outcomes for Children in Urban Refugee Settings

In the realm of speech-language pathology, creating effective interventions for children requires a comprehensive understanding of their social and environmental contexts. The research article "Social ecological factors associated with experiencing violence among urban refugee and displaced adolescent girls and young women in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study" provides invaluable insights into the factors influencing violence in these settings. By understanding these factors, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can better tailor their interventions to support children from similar backgrounds.

Key Findings and Their Implications for SLPs

The study identified several social ecological factors associated with violence among urban refugee and displaced adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). These factors span intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community levels. For SLPs working with children in urban refugee settings, these insights can be pivotal in shaping effective therapeutic strategies.

Intrapersonal Factors

The study found that depressive symptoms and mobile app usage were significantly associated with experiencing violence. For SLPs, this highlights the importance of:

• Addressing Mental Health: Incorporating mental health support within speech-language therapy can help children manage symptoms of depression, which may be prevalent in violence-affected settings.
• Utilizing Technology: Leveraging mobile apps and digital tools can enhance therapy delivery. However, it is crucial to ensure these tools are used safely and do not exacerbate risks for violence.

Interpersonal Factors

The research indicated that childhood abuse and sexual relationship power were significant predictors of violence. SLPs should consider:

• Trauma-Informed Care: Implementing trauma-informed approaches in therapy can create a safe and supportive environment for children who have experienced abuse.
• Empowering Communication: Enhancing children's communication skills can empower them to express their needs and boundaries, potentially reducing their vulnerability to interpersonal violence.

Community Factors

Community-level factors such as adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) stigma and food insecurity were also linked to violence. SLPs can address these by:

• Community Engagement: Collaborating with community organizations to address broader issues like food insecurity can create a more supportive environment for children.
• Advocacy and Education: Educating families and communities about the importance of SRH and reducing stigma can indirectly support the well-being of children in therapy.

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides a foundational understanding, there is a need for further research to explore the specific needs and effective interventions for children in urban refugee settings. SLPs can play a crucial role by:

• Participating in Research: Engaging in or supporting research initiatives that focus on the speech-language needs of children in these contexts.
• Data-Driven Practice: Continuously collecting and analyzing data from their practice to inform and refine therapeutic approaches.

Conclusion

By integrating the insights from this research, SLPs can enhance their practice and create more effective, contextually relevant interventions for children in urban refugee settings. Addressing the multifaceted needs of these children requires a holistic approach that considers the interplay of intrapersonal, interpersonal, and community factors.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Social ecological factors associated with experiencing violence among urban refugee and displaced adolescent girls and young women in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study.