Publications

Ganie, A. U. R., Ammapattian, T., Jangam, K. V., Kommu, J. V. S., & Paul, F. A. (2025). Socio-Economic Status, Poverty, and Income Inequality as Determinants of Mental Health and Psychosocial Functioning Among Children: A Clinic-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Clinical child psychology and psychiatry. 2025;0(0).

Socio-economic status and poverty are not merely background factors; they are foundational determinants of mental health and psychosocial functioning among children, particularly those living with severe mental illness. In the Indian context, where sources of family income may be unstable and informal, these factors play a crucial role. While some families appear to have higher incomes from organized sectors, high financial burdens, including educational expenses, healthcare costs, household expenditures, and debts sustain chronic financial stress. This chronic economic strain undermines any surface-level financial security, leaving children highly vulnerable. This is the first study in the Indian context to examine the influence of income, socio-economic status, and poverty on psychosocial functioning and disability among children with severe mental illness. Our findings offer critical insights into the severe impact of impoverished living conditions on child development and functioning.  Read Here…

Lone, A. A., Ganie, A. U. R., Paul, F. A., Mukhter, I., & Gupta, A. (2025). De-ritualisation of death and altered grief: the impact of COVID-19 on death and religious mourning practices among Muslims of Kashmir, India. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 1-22.

This research examines the impact of COVID-19 on grieving experiences in Kashmir, highlighting disruptions in cultural and religious death rituals. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, ten individuals who lost loved ones were interviewed through purposive sampling. Thematic analysis revealed four major themes: (i) Religious Rites as Pillars of Identity, (ii) Conflict between Faith & Practical Constraints, (iii) Challenges with De-ritualisation & Mourning, and (iv) Social Perception & Judgement. Findings underscore the emotional strain of adapting physical rituals to virtual formats, emphasising the vital role of shared customs in grief and the importance of culturally sensitive support for bereaved families. Read Here…