Using the candidacy framework to conceptualize systems and gaps when developing infant mental health (IMH) services: a qualitative study

Phang, F. T. H., Weaver, A., Blane, D. N. , Murphy, F., Dawson, A., Hall, S., De Natale, A., Minnis, H. and McFadyen, A. (2023) Using the candidacy framework to conceptualize systems and gaps when developing infant mental health (IMH) services: a qualitative study. Infant Mental Health Journal, 44(4), pp. 480-494. (doi: 10.1002/imhj.22072) (PMID:37339006)

Abstract

The development of infant mental health (IMH) services globally is still in its early stages. This qualitative study aims to understand the challenges of setting up IMH services and explores the views and experiences of 14 multi-disciplinary stakeholders who are part of the IMH implementation group in a large Scottish health board. Six major themes were identified through thematic analysis. This paper examines the most prominent theme “Systems” alongside the theme “Gaps in Current Service”. The theoretical framework of “candidacy” is found to be a valuable way to conceptualize the complex systemic layers of micro, meso, and macro factors that contribute to the challenges of setting up services. At the micro level, key themes included the view that services must be accessible, individualized, and involve families. At the meso level, in line with the aims of the service, multiagency integration, aspects of early intervention, and clear operating conditions were all seen as important. Finally, at the macro level, perhaps the biggest challenge perceived by stakeholders is delivering a service that is entirely infant-focused. These findings will help inform policy makers about factors considered by professionals to be vital in the establishment of IMH services in Scotland and across the globe.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This research was funded by the Scottish Government and University of Glasgow.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Minnis, Professor Helen and Blane, Dr David and McFadyen, Anne and Phang, Dr Fifi
• Authors: Phang, F. T. H., Weaver, A., Blane, D. N., Murphy, F., Dawson, A., Hall, S., De Natale, A., Minnis, H., and McFadyen, A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > General Practice and Primary Care
• Journal Name: Infant Mental Health Journal
• Publisher: Wiley, Published on behalf of the Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health
• ISSN: 0163-9641
• ISSN (Online): 1097-0355
• Published Online: 20 June 2023
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2023 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Infant Mental Health Journal 44(4):480-494
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License