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The current study compares two different interventions for very young children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders (FAS/ARND) (30 months to 7 years) and their caregivers. Following a comprehensive developmental evaluation through the A Better Chance program, and a genetics consultation, families are randomly assigned to one of two interventions. One intervention is a specialized behavior management program, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. Parents and children are actively involved in treatment. It has been found effective in reducing both externalizing behavior problems in children and parenting stress, but it has not been applied to this population. The other intervention, a less directive and structured support and management group, does not involve the children. Both interventions incorporate a three-week education and advocacy component prior to treatment. The goals of both treatment arms are reduction of negative behaviors, improvement of relationships, and reduction of parenting stress. The behavioral intervention phase of the study lasts 14 weeks. Follow-up will occur at 6, 12, and 18-months post treatment. The overall goal of the project is to determine effective intervention strategies to prevent secondary disabilities (e.g., behavior problems) in children with FAS/ARND, thus reducing stress and placement disruption in their families. |
