Caregivers' perspectives of support needs for adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

Abstract

Research focused on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is often deficit-focused, limiting a holistic understanding of individuals' support needs. Families of adolescents with FASD also struggle to access appropriate services. Using semi-structured interviews, the current study explored the perspectives of seven caregivers of adolescents with FASD in Australia. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed that anxiety was perceived as a main barrier to participation for adolescents; however, incorporating adolescents' strengths facilitated participation. Additionally, caregivers described that professionals did not effectively collaborate and lacked understanding of FASD. Considering these findings, recommendations to optimise outcomes for adolescents with FASD and their families are provided.