Search results for ‘Subject term:"foetal alcohol syndrome"’ Sort:
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Social work and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)
- Authors:
- HALL Trisha, JACKSON Patricia D., SHER Jonathan
- Publisher:
- IRISS
- Publication year:
- 2022
- Pagination:
- 22
- Place of publication:
- Glasgow
Anecdotally, we know that social workers rate their knowledge and understanding of FASD as low and would not ordinarily know how to upskill themselves. This Insight is one step toward addressing that gap by covering the long-term impacts of FASD and how social work involvement can support better outcomes for people. Social work support can be preventative, and thereby, reduce escalation, avoid longer-term problems, and help break cycles of vulnerability, marginalisation and adversity. Given the prevalence, severity and impact of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) on individuals and communities, there should be better social work knowledge and understanding of, as well as support for, these disorders. Social workers can play a more positive role in the prevention and identification of FASD, as well as in services supporting those affected by it. Increased awareness and learning opportunities, and more encouragement and resources are necessary for social workers to fulfil their potential in this field. (Edited publisher abstract)
Exploring the experiences of social workers in working with children suspected to have fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
- Authors:
- GILBERT David J., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Adoption and Fostering, 45(2), 2021, pp.155-172.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is one outcome from prenatal alcohol exposure. Social workers are likely to encounter children with the condition, due to the greater likelihood of prenatal alcohol exposure among children in social services settings. This study explores the experiences of social workers in working with children suspected of having FASD and the support offered to social workers, the children and their families. Semi-structured interviews followed by qualitative framework analysis were conducted with seven child and family social workers along with one child protection solicitor who had experience of handling FASD cases. The two main themes that emerged from the data were a lack of knowledge about FASD and the paucity of diagnosis. Lack of knowledge among the social workers was linked to difficulty in managing children suspected to have the condition, feelings of frustration and normalisation of challenging behaviours. The paucity of diagnosis led to an under-emphasis of FASD in assessments, a dearth of specialist services and confusion about its specific effects in contexts of multiple substance misuse and harmful socio-environmental factors. The need for increased FASD awareness within social services and the development of FASD-targeted support for children and families is highlighted. Social workers would benefit from the inclusion of FASD-focused training in their curricula and professional development plans. Improving the diagnostic capacities of health institutions would address the paucity of diagnosis and raise the profile of FASD, especially in the social services setting. (Edited publisher abstract)
Stigma as a dominant discourse in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
- Authors:
- CHOATE Peter W., BADRY Dorothy
- Journal article citation:
- Advances in Dual Diagnosis, 12(1/2), 2019, pp.36-52.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to conduct a scoping review of the literature to explore the many ways stigma affects people with FASD and to highlight the disciplines and places where discourse on FASD and stigma is taking place. Design/methodology/approach: Searches were conducted in PubMed, ERIC, Family & Society Studies Worldwide, Families Studies Abstracts and Google Scholar between 2008 and 2018. Search terms focused on stigma, shame and the connection to FASD with a view to looking across social and medical science literature. Findings: Searches identified 39 full text manuscripts, 13 of which were included in the scoping review. Stigma toward people with FASD exists in multiple professional forums across disciplines. The relationship between mother’s use of alcohol and the lasting impact on the child is a focus in the articles identified from a public health perspective. The review showed there was limited cross-disciplinary discussion evident. In total 13 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Research limitations/implications: Negative discourses predominate with little attention being paid to possible areas of success as well as cases of lower FASD impacts. There is a significant void in work focusing on positive outcomes for people with FASD. Such discourse would support a better understanding of pathways to more positive outcomes. Originality/value: This paper highlights the issue of FASD and stigma through identification of relevant literature and expands the conversation to offer insights into the challenging terrain that individuals with FASD must navigate. The issue of stigma is not linked only to individuals with FASD but also their support systems. It is critical to recognize the multiple attributions of stigma to FASD in order to effectively take up conversations across and between disciplines to promote new discourses focused on de-stigmatization. (Edited publisher abstract)
"How could I have done this?" Thoughts of mothers of children with fetal alcohol syndrome
- Authors:
- ZABOTKA Joelle, BRADLEY Carolyn, ESCUETA MaryTherese
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions, 17(3), 2017, pp.258-274.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia, USA
Biological mothers of children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) must cope with the struggles of parenting a child with special needs with the knowledge that their children’s problems are due to their alcohol use during pregnancy. Qualitative interviews were conducted by telephone with 11 biological mothers of children with FAS. This group of mothers understood their use of alcohol during pregnancy through reliance on the disease model, inaccurate or incomplete knowledge of the consequences of drinking during pregnancy, the advice of others, and a lack of awareness of the pregnancy. (Publisher abstract)
Canadian children and youth in care: the cost of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
- Journal article citation:
- Child and Youth Care Forum, 43(1), 2014, pp.83-96.
- Publisher:
- Springer
Background: A high prevalence of prenatal alcohol exposure has been reported among children in care and thus, the risk of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in this population is high. Objective: The purpose of the current study was to estimate the number of children (0–18 years) in care with FASD and to determine the associated cost by age group, gender, and province/territory in Canada in 2011. Methods: The prevalence of children in care by province/territory was obtained from the Canadian Child Welfare Research Portal, and the number of children in care with FASD for each province/territory was estimated from available epidemiological studies. In order to calculate the total cost per province/territory, the cost per individual per day, by age group, was applied to the respective number of children in care with FASD. Results: The estimated number of children in care with FASD ranged from 2,225 to 7,620, with an annual cost of care ranging from 57.9to198.3 million Canadian dollars (CND). The highest overall cost (29.5to101.1 million CND) was for 11–15 year-olds. Conclusion: The study findings can be used to demonstrate the substantial economic burden that FASD places on the child welfare system. Attention towards the needs of this population and prevention efforts to reduce FASD incidence in Canada, and other countries are urgently needed. (Edited publisher abstract)
The impact of raising a child with FASD upon carers: findings from a mixed methodology study in the UK
- Authors:
- MUKHERJEE Raja A. S., WRAY Elizabeth
- Journal article citation:
- Adoption and Fostering, 37(1), 2013, pp.43-56.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Research suggests that caring for a child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) creates unique challenges for carers. To investigate this, three focus groups and education sessions, attended by 66 people, were held in the UK. Knowledge about FASD and its impact on families was evaluated using the focus groups, the Parental Stress Index and knowledge questionnaire. Eight broad themes were identified from thematic analysis of the focus groups. The findings suggest more support is needed for carers of children with FASD, especially as carers grow older. The implication for current practice should be further evaluated in this group (Publisher abstract)
Autism spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Part I: a comparison of parenting stress
- Authors:
- WATSON Shelley L., COONS Kelly D., HAYES Stephanie A.
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 38(2), 2013, pp.95-104.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
To compare the stress of parents of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) 25 parents of children with ASD and 25 parents of children with FASD completed the Parenting Stress Index – Short Form (PSI-SF) and the Questionnaire on Resources and Stress – Friedrich's Version (QRS-F). Although both parent groups reported elevated stress, PSI-SF results indicated that parents of children with FASD were experiencing significantly more stress compared to parents of children with ASD. No significant differences were found between groups on the total QRS-F, but parents of children with FASD had higher scores on the Pessimism subscale. The authors call for measures grounded in theory as well as mixed methods research that includes the subjective experience of parents’ stress. (Edited publisher abstract)
Caregiver perceptions of the community integration of adults with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder in British Columbia
- Authors:
- CLARK Erica, et al
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 21(5), September 2008, pp.446-456.
- Publisher:
- Wiley
Adults with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) require support to be part of the community; however, most have few supports other than family and friends. The purpose of this study was to assess caregiver perceptions of community integration of adults with FASD living in British Columbia. The Assimilation, Integration, Marginalization and Segregation (AIMS) Interview and Functional Assessment were used to assess community integration and the level of support needed respectively. Scores on the AIMS indicated that most of the adults with FASD were integrated (i.e. disability related needs were identified and supported) in the following domains: medical, dental and housing; however, a large percentage were marginalized in other domains. Living with a caregiver had the greatest positive impact on integration while a history of incarceration or confinement had a negative impact. Although most of the adults with FASD had achieved community integration in some areas; this was, to some extent, because of the support of family and friends.
Long-term outcomes following Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) diagnosis in adulthood
- Authors:
- TEMPLE Valerie K., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 46(3), 2021, pp.272-280.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
Background: Early diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is known to improve outcomes in children. It is less clear if diagnosis in adulthood also conveys benefits. This study investigated long-term outcomes for individuals diagnosed with FASD after 18 years of age. Method: Twenty adults aged 18–45 years at FASD diagnosis were interviewed. Pre-diagnosis information was compared to follow-up information gathered between 1 and 11 years later. Results: Individuals reported high rates of mental health disorders (55%) and unemployment (85%). Pre-diagnosis, 10% received disability income and 15% were eligible for intellectual disability (ID) services. At follow-up, 90% received disability income and 85% were eligible for ID services. All (100%) enacted at least one assessment recommendation and 75% enacted two. Most (75%) reported having a diagnosis was beneficial, providing better adaptation and self-understanding. Conclusion: An FASD diagnosis in adulthood can benefit individuals through more access to supports/services and greater personal understanding and adaptation. (Edited publisher abstract)
Adaptation in families raising children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Part II: what would help
- Authors:
- COONS Kelly D., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 43(2), 2018, pp.137-151.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
Background: This paper aims to build upon the experience of family adaptation and to describe one unique stressor experienced by adoptive parents of children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) that may hinder successful family adaptation. Method: Fifty-one adoptive parents of children with FASD from 36 families in Ontario, Canada, participated in a mixed methods study. Parents completed 2 questionnaires, the Family Crisis Oriented Personal Scales and the Questionnaire on Resources and Stress – Friedrich’s Short Form, and participated in in-depth, semistructured interviews, which were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results: Parents expressed that improved knowledge and awareness of FASD from healthcare professionals, teachers, and society as a whole would help in their adaptation to raising their children with FASD. Specifically, parents discussed the lack of recognition of the symptoms of FASD, the lack of understanding about what a diagnosis of FASD means, and the need to promote better messages of prevention. Conclusions: The findings display a clear need for more supports for families, particularly in the area of increasing public and professional knowledge about the realities of raising a child with FASD. (Edited publisher abstract)