Decolonizing infant mental health involves rethinking and reshaping the field by identifying and addressing biases in existing theories, research, and interventions. This includes questioning the dominance of Western perspectives and ensuring that non-Western knowledge systems are valued and integrated into our existing knowledge base. There are several areas in which long-standing systemic injustices within our field require redress:
- Cultural Context: Recognizing that infant mental health is deeply influenced by cultural contexts. This means understanding and respecting the diverse ways in which different cultures approach parenting, caregiving, and child development.
- Community-Based Approaches: Developing interventions that are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of local communities. This involves working closely with community members to create culturally relevant and effective mental health services.
- Epistemic Justice: Addressing the imbalance in whose knowledge is considered legitimate and valuable. This includes recognizing and validating non-Western forms of knowledge and challenging the dominance of Western epistemologies.
- Ethical Considerations: Ensuring that research and interventions are conducted ethically and respectfully, with a focus on the well-being of infants and their families. This involves being aware of power dynamics and striving to create equitable partnerships with communities.
- Holistic Perspectives: Adopting a holistic view of infant mental health that considers the social, emotional, and environmental factors affecting children’s development. This approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of various aspects of a child’s life and the importance of supporting the entire family unit.
Our call for submissions spans multiple categories—clinical, research, professional development, opinion pieces, and community voices—and we welcome diverse perspectives that bring the lived experiences of families, communities, and professionals to light.
Your voice and expertise are vital to creating a holistic understanding that transcends borders and honors the diversity of our shared human experience. We encourage submissions that explore topics such as:
- Clinical Perspectives: Insights into culturally responsive clinical practices that enhance support for infants and families.
- Research: Studies that reveal how cultural context impacts early development and family interactions.
- Professional Development: Best practices and frameworks that foster inclusive, culturally aware professional growth.
- Opinion Pieces: Reflective essays or viewpoints on pressing issues and the future of infant mental health.
- Community Voices: Stories and perspectives from community members that bring to life the traditions, strengths, and resilience within family systems worldwide.
Submissions are due by 1 May 2025 and all contributions will be reviewed by our editorial board to ensure an inclusive, high-quality publication.
Together, let us amplify voices, broaden perspectives, and celebrate the beautiful diversity that enriches our understanding of infant mental health.
Perspectives Editorial Board
Click here for the Perspectives Paper Submission Guidelines.
