The View page displays a submission's general information and data. Watch video
Submission information
Submission Number: 254
Submission ID: 1453
Submission UUID: 8f8d90f1-f18d-4a48-a545-aa53a2c48a72
Submission URI: /2025/abstracts
Created: Sat, 07/05/2025 - 09:41
Completed: Sat, 07/05/2025 - 09:51
Changed: Fri, 08/08/2025 - 06:26
Remote IP address: 41.140.98.206
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English
Is draft: No
Current page: Complete
Webform: Abstract
Presenters
Dr.
Human-hendricks
Anja
University of the western cape
ACADEMIC BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Anja Human-Hendricks is a trained and registered Social Worker. She has a Masters in Child and Family Studies, and a PhD focused on understanding the intergenerational transferences of parenting taking place between generations, obtained in 2021, from the University of the Western Cape (UWC). Her research interests include child and youth well-being, strengthening families, building capacities for youth and parenting, and intergenerational parenting. These research interests are also linked to her community engagement collaborations and post degree work. She is a Senior Lecturer and member of staff within the Department of Social Work, University of the Western Cape.
Dr. Anja Human-Hendricks is a trained and registered Social Worker. She has a Masters in Child and Family Studies, and a PhD focused on understanding the intergenerational transferences of parenting taking place between generations, obtained in 2021, from the University of the Western Cape (UWC). Her research interests include child and youth well-being, strengthening families, building capacities for youth and parenting, and intergenerational parenting. These research interests are also linked to her community engagement collaborations and post degree work. She is a Senior Lecturer and member of staff within the Department of Social Work, University of the Western Cape.
No
Abstract
Strengthening Family Bonds: A Systematic Review of Factors and Interventions That Enhance Family Cohesion
THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice
Sub 3.5 Strategies for promoting environmental activism within the profession.
Oral Presentation
Title: Strengthening Family Bonds: A Systematic Review of Factors and Interventions That Enhance Family Cohesion
Authors: Nicolette V. Roman¹, Tolulope V. Balogun², Letitia Butler-Kruger¹, Solomon D. Danga¹, Janine Therese de Lange¹, Anja Human-Hendricks³*, Fundiswa Thelma Khaile⁴, Kezia R. October¹, Olaniyi J. Olabiyi¹
Affiliations:
¹ Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Children, Families and Society, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
² Department of Industrial Psychology, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
³ Department of Social Work, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
⁴ School of Government, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
*Corresponding author: Anja Human-Hendricks, ahuman@uwc.ac.za, +27 818582873
Presentation format: parallel session presentation
Abstract:
This systematic review explores global evidence on factors influencing family cohesion and evaluates interventions that strengthen familial relationships. Drawing on 41 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2023, and adhering to PRISMA guidelines with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for quality assessment, the review identifies four core dimensions of cohesion: emotional bonding, adaptability, communication, and support. Studies span diverse regions including North America, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, East and Southeast Asia, and Europe, offering cross-cultural insights into family dynamics. Key interventions include community-based programs, trauma-informed therapies, and parenting education. Results consistently show that higher family cohesion correlates with improved academic performance, enhanced mental health, and stronger social competence. Socioeconomic status emerged as a moderating factor, with lower-SES families facing greater challenges but also demonstrating resilience when supported through targeted interventions. Effective strategies include culturally sensitive approaches, family therapy, and policy supports. This review contributes to a more nuanced and globally relevant understanding of family cohesion and informs the design of future programs and policies.
Keywords: family cohesion, mental health, family functioning, social competence, interventions, resilience
Authors: Nicolette V. Roman¹, Tolulope V. Balogun², Letitia Butler-Kruger¹, Solomon D. Danga¹, Janine Therese de Lange¹, Anja Human-Hendricks³*, Fundiswa Thelma Khaile⁴, Kezia R. October¹, Olaniyi J. Olabiyi¹
Affiliations:
¹ Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Children, Families and Society, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
² Department of Industrial Psychology, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
³ Department of Social Work, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
⁴ School of Government, University of the Western Cape, South Africa
*Corresponding author: Anja Human-Hendricks, ahuman@uwc.ac.za, +27 818582873
Presentation format: parallel session presentation
Abstract:
This systematic review explores global evidence on factors influencing family cohesion and evaluates interventions that strengthen familial relationships. Drawing on 41 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2023, and adhering to PRISMA guidelines with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for quality assessment, the review identifies four core dimensions of cohesion: emotional bonding, adaptability, communication, and support. Studies span diverse regions including North America, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, East and Southeast Asia, and Europe, offering cross-cultural insights into family dynamics. Key interventions include community-based programs, trauma-informed therapies, and parenting education. Results consistently show that higher family cohesion correlates with improved academic performance, enhanced mental health, and stronger social competence. Socioeconomic status emerged as a moderating factor, with lower-SES families facing greater challenges but also demonstrating resilience when supported through targeted interventions. Effective strategies include culturally sensitive approaches, family therapy, and policy supports. This review contributes to a more nuanced and globally relevant understanding of family cohesion and informs the design of future programs and policies.
Keywords: family cohesion, mental health, family functioning, social competence, interventions, resilience
Reviewer ONE Feedback
Dr
Samkelo
Bala
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted
Reviewer TWO Feedback
Dr
Sandile
Dhludhlu
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted