Families with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: Exploring adoptive parents' experiences of family well-being. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Balcaen, Lisa; Santos, Rob; Roger, Kerstin; Mignone, Javier
• Is Part Of: Adoption & fostering. Volume 45:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 283
• Page End: 299
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Adoption -- FASD -- parental well-being -- family dynamics -- coping strategies; Adoption -- Periodicals; Foster home care -- Periodicals; Adopted children -- Periodicals; Foster children -- Periodicals; Child welfare -- Periodicals; 362.7305
• DOI: 10.1177/03085759211050044
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-5759

Abstract

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the leading non-genetic cause of developmental disability in Canada. It poses many challenges at the individual, family and societal levels. This study explores adoptive parents' experiences of having a child with FASD in their family and how these experiences impact family well-being and, specifically, parenting, family dynamics, sources of support and coping strategies. Using an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight adoptive parents of children with FASD. Four main themes emerged, each with several subthemes: (1) managing individuals with FASD; (2) navigating family cohesion; (3) psychological warfare; and (4) experiences of supports. Findings showed how FASD affects all aspects of family life and has a constant and cumulative effect on the family's well-being. Hope, community and parents feeling successful in their efforts were found to have strong connections to well-being.