AUK Hosts Book Talk by Research Affiliate
16th Nov 2023 | by the Department of PR & Marketing
AUK recently welcomed Dr. Juliet Dinkha, a research affiliate and licensed clinical psychologist, for a compelling discussion. Dr. Dinkha shared insights from her recently published book, co-authored in collaboration with AUK alumna and child-life specialist, Nourah Al Enezi, as well as psychotherapist and mental health counselor, Natasha Sharma. Titled "Parents, Children, Teens, and Psychological Viewpoints on Parenting Practices in Kuwait and Greece," the book delves into various facets of parenting practices within these two distinct cultural contexts.
The AUK library co-hosted this event with the Office of Research and Grants’ Faculty Speaker Series (FSS). The event provided an opportunity for the campus community to learn more about Dr. Dinkha’s collaborative work and research with Ms. Al Enezi and Ms. Sharma.
Dr. Dinkha was introduced by Dr. Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior at the College of Business and Economics, and Ms. Asma Al Kanan, the University librarian at AUK, both of whom noted that the University was proud to host a former professor back to campus to share her work.
During her talk, Dr. Dinkha discussed how the book originated during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the authors noticed that global events were sparking conversations about resilience in young people and the parental role in raising healthy, successful adults.
The book features interviews with 25 individuals from 18 diverse families in Greece and the Middle East, exploring childhood, parenting practices, traumatic incidents, and generational and cultural differences influencing family dynamics. Drawing on academic theories, such as Erik Erikson's psychosocial development, the authors highlighted the impact of childhood trauma in these personal stories and shed light on how families overcome adversity to support their children's future success.
The event attracted an audience of students, alumni, faculty, and staff, ending with a lively Q&A session as attendees sought to learn more about the book’s findings and Dr. Dinkha’s thoughts on how such insights can inspire readers.
Dr. Juliet Dinkha
Group photo