The Effectiveness of a Community-Based Intervention for Parents with FASD

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Step by Step program in which mentors work with parents affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) on a one-to-one basis. Mentors help clients identify and work towards meeting their needs and achieving their goals. Data from 24 closed client files was collected and analyzed and as predicted, the program was effective in helping clients reduce their needs and achieve their goals. The clients' reason for leaving the program as well as whether or not they had a formal FASD diagnosis had an impact on their success in the program. Data collected on additional mental health issues, experience of abuse and addictions helped to characterize the sample of clients and correlations were found between clients' experience of abuse and their past and/or present addictions issues. Limitations of this study as well as future implications were also discussed.

Caregivers of Youth with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Hopes for Them as Adults

“…Case accounts of individuals with FASD have shown that postsecondary education and consistent employment outcomes are possible (e.g., Boyle Street Education Centre 2007;Community Living British Columbia 2011;Erb 2015). However, the literature is generally reflective of lower expectations of adult development for youth with FASD, noting that memory challenges and social challenges contribute to learning and health difficulties for many (Coles et al 2010;Denys et al 2011;O'Connor and Paley 2009). However, educational and occupational opportunities can be facilitated through community-based initiatives that inform adults and their caregivers about appropriate programs (Grant et al 2004;Denys et al 2011).…”

“…In general, extensive and diffuse alcohol effects result in significant disabilities that require intensive and longerterm support (Fagerlund et al 2011). It has been noted, for example, that memory problems persist from childhood into young adulthood (Coles et al 2010) and that children with FASD will have elevated rates of mental health problems as young adults (Denys et al 2011;O'Connor and Paley 2009). Anecdotally, however, as reflected in several case accounts, a high quality of life is possible (e.g., Boyle Street Education Centre 2007; Community Living British Columbia 2011;Erb 2015).…”

“…This program uses a case management approach. The step-by-step program also works with mothers who have a suspected or confirmed FASD diagnosis (Denys et al 2011). In each program, participants set goals and identify needs.…”

Interventions for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Meeting Needs Across the Lifespan

“…Grant et al [65] found improved outcomes in the areas of substance use, contraceptive use, use of medical and mental health services, and improvements in maintaining stable housing arrangements. In a related study, Denys et al [66] found that a similar mentoring program for parents with FASD [n=24] was effective in helping clients reduce their needs and achieve their goals, particularly in the areas of social problems, experience of abuse, housing, transportation, self-care, and health.…”

Mental Health Outcomes Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: Genetic and Environmental Factors

“…Gender differences were noted in that females were found to have higher prevalence rates of depression (50 %) and anxiety (50 %) than males (40 % and 0 %, respectively). In a Canadian study of 24 adults with PAE participating in an intervention program, Denys et al [49] found that 83 % had at least one mental health diagnosis, with the most common being depression, anxiety, or ADHD.…”