Chetna Duggal

Bio: Chetna Duggal is an academic researcher from Tata Institute of Social Sciences. The author has contributed to research in topics: Medicine & Mental health. The author has an hindex of 3, co-authored 17 publications receiving 31 citations.

What works and how: Adult learner perspectives on an autism intervention training program in India:

Abstract: A significant treatment gap exists in low and middle income countries such as India for children with autism spectrum disorder. The Autism Intervention Training Program, a comprehensive 6-month program for training professionals in transdisciplinary evidence-based practices to address concerns associated with autism spectrum disorder, was piloted in India to address this gap. This study attempted to capture the perspectives of trainees on the effectiveness of andragogical approaches adopted in the Autism Intervention Training Program and the impact of this training on their work. An exploratory qualitative study was conceptualized, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 Autism Intervention Training Program trainees. Trainees highlighted the benefits of a blended training format, peer learning, and a responsive, reflective, experiential, and respectful approach to teaching and supervision. The impact of the program was perceived through an increase in trainees' knowledge and skills, impact on their organizations, and positive outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. There is a need to develop and document comprehensive, contextualized, and evidence-based training programs for autism spectrum disorder professionals in low and middle income countries. Focusing on andragogical frameworks while conceptualizing and delivering these training programs is underscored, as approaches that promote self-efficacy in learners and enable transformative learning can lead to a cascading impact in resource-constrained settings.

Challenges Experienced by Novice Counsellors

Abstract: Existing literature emphasizes the initial years in the profession as crucial to counsellor growth and development. A mixed methods study was conceptualized to explore the challenges experienced by novice counsellors in India. Thirty novice counsellors filled the Development of Psychotherapists Common Core Questionnaire (DPCCQ) and in-depth interviews were conducted with six of the counsellors. The data from both methods was triangulated in the interpretation phase of the research. Results revealed that novice counsellors experienced challenges in the following areas—in the session, challenges related to the organization, and to counselling as a profession. The participants employed multiple coping strategies with the most important being seeking supervision. Implications for professional training, supervision, and licensing are discussed. Further research on therapist growth and development is recommended.

Negotiating an Open Marriage in Couple Therapy

Abstract: Open marriages as arrangements between married couples to explore sexual and emotional intimacy with partners outside the marriage have been documented in research in other countries. This paper focuses on two case examples of couples seen in therapy to negotiate an open marriage. This is a new therapeutic trend in India, driven by various social and cultural changes. The therapeutic processes and the key challenges in working with couples in open marriages are outlined. Implications for couple therapy practice in the Indian socio-cultural context are explored.

Development & validation of scales to assess stigma related to COVID-19 in India

Abstract: Background & objectives: COVID-19 pandemic has triggered social stigma towards individuals affected and their families. This study describes the process undertaken for the development and validation of scales to assess stigmatizing attitudes and experiences among COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 participants from the community. Methods: COVID-19 Stigma Scale and Community COVID-19 Stigma Scale constituting 13 and six items, respectively, were developed based on review of literature and news reports, expert committee evaluation and participants' interviews through telephone for a multicentric study in India. For content validity, 61 (30 COVID-19-recovered and 31 non-COVID-19 participants from the community) were recruited. Test–retest reliability of the scales was assessed among 99 participants (41 COVID-19 recovered and 58 non-COVID-19). Participants were administered the scale at two-time points after a gap of 7-12 days. Cronbach's alpha, overall percentage agreement and kappa statistics were used to assess internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Results: Items in the scales were relevant and comprehensible. Both the scales had Cronbach's α above 0.6 indicating moderate-to-good internal consistency. Test–retest reliability assessed using kappa statistics indicated that for the COVID-19 Stigma Scale, seven items had a moderate agreement (0.4-0.6). For the Community COVID-19 Stigma Scale, four items had a moderate agreement. Interpretation & conclusions: Validity and reliability of the two stigma scales indicated that the scales were comprehensible and had moderate internal consistency. These scales could be used to assess COVID-19 stigma and help in the development of appropriate stigma reduction interventions for COVID-19 infected, and mitigation of stigmatizing attitudes in the community.

Experience and Education.

Abstract: Preparing the books to read every day is enjoyable for many people. However, there are still many people who also don't like reading. This is a problem. But, when you can support others to start reading, it will be better. One of the books that can be recommended for new readers is experience and education. This book is not kind of difficult book to read. It can be read and understand by the new readers.

Annual Research Review: Achieving universal health coverage for young children with autism spectrum disorder in low- and middle-income countries: a review of reviews.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Autism presents with similar prevalence and core impairments in diverse populations. We conducted a scoping review of reviews to determine key barriers and innovative strategies which can contribute to attaining universal health coverage (UHC), from early detection to effective interventions for autism in low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC). METHODS A systematic literature search of review articles was conducted. Reviews relevant to the study research question were included if they incorporated papers from LAMIC and focused on children (

Assessment guidelines and clinical implications for therapists working with couples in sexually open marriages

Abstract: Over time, there has been a significant population that adheres to non-traditional relationship constructions. Whether this is seen as polyamory, swinging, or open marriage, these couples have been marginalized by their monogamous peers and risk being ostracized if they reach out for help from professionals. As therapists, there is a lack of information about non-monogamous couple dynamics and assessment. Additionally, there is a disparity in the training that clinicians receive to be competent in working with couples in non-monogamous relationships. The authors begin by reviewing current literature about the population of interest and define sexually open marriage, as it will be understood throughout the writing. The authors then go on to suggest assessment guidelines, clinical implications for working with couples in sexually open marriages and finally explore limitations and issues that therapists could face when working with this population.

Rethinking autism spectrum disorder assessment for children during COVID-19 and beyond.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unique challenges for families and caregivers, as well as for autism-focused clinicians, who are faced with providing a thorough and accurate evaluation of children's specific needs and diagnoses in the absence of in-person assessment tools. The shift to telehealth assessments has challenged clinicians to reconsider approaches and assumptions that underlie the diagnostic assessment process, and to adopt new ways of individualizing standard assessments according to family and child needs. Mandates for physical distancing have uncovered deficiencies in diagnostic practices for suspected autism and have illuminated biases that have posed obstacles preventing children and families from receiving the services that they truly need. This Commentary outlines several considerations for improving diagnostic practices as we move forward from the current pandemic and continue to strive to build an adaptable, sustainable, equitable, and family-centered system of care. LAY SUMMARY: Physical distancing and the abrupt end to in-person services for many children on the autism spectrum has forced clinicians to examine the existing challenges with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnostic assessment and consider things they want to keep and things that should be changed in the years ahead. New approaches such as telehealth both alleviated and exacerbated existing disparities, and brought into stark focus the importance of equitable and timely access to family-centered care. This commentary suggests ways of improving clinical practices related to ASD assessment to continue along this path.