Nina Marie Lassen defends her PhD thesis

The Faculty of Social Sciences. Photo: UCPH

Title

'How can Early Childhood Education and Care contribute to the prevention of behavioural problems?'.

Time and place

21 March 2025 at 1 pm (CET).

The defence will take place in Auditorium 1.1.18, The Faculty of Social Sciences (CSS), Øster Farimagsgade 5, Building 1, 1353 Copenhagen.

After the defence, there will be a reception in room 03.2.M202, the Department of Psychology, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353 Copenhagen.

Assessment committee

  • Professor Stig Poulsen, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (chair)

  • Associate Professor Kirstine Agnete Davidsen, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark

  • Associate Professor Jane Iles, University of Surrey, United Kingdom

Supervisor

  • Professor Mette Skovgaard Væver, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Abstract

Insensitive and harsh parenting is linked to externalising behavioural problems in childhood. Therefore, preventive interventions aimed at enhancing positive parenting are important for promoting early childhood mental wellbeing. The Video-Feedback Intervention to promote Positive Parenting and Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD) is one such intervention. This thesis examines the feasibility of VIPP-SD when delivered by Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) professionals in two Danish municipalities to parents of children aged 2 to 6 years exhibiting externalising behaviours. Through qualitative interviews with parents and questionnaires completed by both parents and childcare professionals, the study explores participants' experiences with the intervention, as well as the acceptability and feasibility of VIPP-SD in the ECEC setting. Findings suggest that VIPP-SD is generally well-received and beneficial for Danish parents but may require refinement for children aged 3 to 6 with externalising behaviours. Additionally, VIPP-SD does not appear feasible in its current form within the ECEC setting unless adapted to better fit the context and supported with adequate resources.