Presenter: Autumn Jean Liguori-Bills
Faculty Sponsor: Meghan Armstrong
School: UMass Amherst
Research Area: Public Health and Epidemiology
ABSTRACT
Bedsharing with an infant is a common caregiving practice across many cultures, and appears to be particularly prevalent among Latinx caregivers. Nonetheless, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not currently recommend bedsharing under any circumstances. Limited research has examined how to promote safer bedsharing practices among communities where it is common. This study addresses this gap by exploring the behaviors, perceptions, and decision-making processes related to bedsharing among Latinx caregivers.
Ten Latinx caregivers from Western Massachusetts participated in a focus group. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods, including open coding and thematic analysis, to identify patterns and themes in participant dialogue.
This study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of safe infant sleep behaviors by centering caregiver perspectives and cultural context. Findings will inform the development of bilingual, culturally responsive, harm-reduction-oriented bedsharing education materials.
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