Pathways to Resilience III: Beyond Nature vs. Nurture

CYCC Network: Mobilizing Knowledge to Support Vulnerable Youth:

Abstract #66
Information Seeking Behavior of Young People and Mental Health – Knowledge Synthesis
Presenter: David Este Co - Presenters: Christa Sata, Alicia Raimundo
Abstract:
In 2013 and 2014 the CYCC Network completed a report which synthesized existing knowledge on youth mental health information-seeking in order to shed light on the diverse information seeking experiences of youth and to identify areas of interest which are relevant to improving programming that could help youth find the information they need. 
The existing academic and practice-based literature shows that the factors influencing the mental health experiences of youth are diverse. For some youth, multiple factors such as gender, age, geographic location, ethnic background, and legal status interact to shape experiences of mental health and of help-seeking.  While relevant mental health information exists, the evidence suggests that the mere existence of evidence does not effect changes in the mental health experiences of many youth.
The synthesis report suggests that engaging youth in the creation of spaces and activities that support the development of mental health knowledge may be effective in bridging the gap between the experiences of youth and the production of mental health information. This could include collaboratively creating mental health resources and engaging youth in developing strategies for the productive dissemination of mental health information.

Abstract #159
Ethics in Research With Vulnerable Youth 
Presenter: Jimmy Bray Co - Presenter: Linda Liebenberg
Abstract:
The CYCC Network conducted a knowledge synthesis with the goal of identifying ethical considerations related to research with vulnerable and at-risk children and youth.  The knowledge synthesis suggests that organizations involved in research with youth should develop ethics oversight procedures which take the complexities of the contexts of vulnerable children and youth into account. This synthesis was used to produce peer-reviewed recommendations that can be used to inform the ethical governance of research with children and youth.

Abstract #175
Promising Practices for Violence Prevention to Help Children in Disasters and Complex Emergencies
Presenter: Judi Fairholm Co - Presenter: Emily Pelley
Abstract:
According to a UNHCR report in 2013, there are 51.2 million people who have been displaced worldwide; half of which are children. Children face compounded risk when displaced. In addition to suffering the immediate consequences of the disaster, they are also exposed to the increased risk of violence as well as to a lack of care and protection when they attempt to seek help. Understanding effective violence prevention strategies is critically important in order for child protection to be effective in these challenging contexts. The purpose of this knowledge synthesis is:
-To present the ways in which complex emergencies and disasters expose children and youth to violence, both here in Canada and around the world
-To highlight promising practices that foster resilience in these challenging environments
The recent trend to situate violence in the domain of public health has conceptualized violence as a disease that can be prevented.  Violence can be prevented through collaborative responses from diverse sectors including health, education, social services, and justice. This collective impact response is necessary to address the many forms and impacts of violence on children and youth.

Abstract #334
Creating Supporting Environments for Children and Youth with Complex Needs
Presenter: Isabelle Levert Chiasson Co - Presenters: Lisa Lachance
Abstract: 
An estimated 14-25 percent of Canadian children and youth are living with a mental health disorder, and many of these young people face multiple other challenges that further compromise their physical, mental and emotional well-being. The complex needs of these children and youth make it very difficult to adopt a single intervention approach. Instead, multi-dimensional problems require complex solutions. Comprehensive strategies are needed that bring together many different actors and services from across sectors and disciplines. The Children and Youth in Challenging Contexts (CYCC) Network works to support such strategies by connecting researchers, service providers, practitioners, communities, and youth themselves, and helping them share their knowledge, resources, and lessons learned of what works best for improving the mental health of young people. This presentation will outline the promising practices we’ve learned for supporting young people with complex needs, particularly those living in more vulnerable and marginalized situations. Our aim is to introduce the audience to practical, proven ways that they can create supportive environments for children and youth with complex needs.