Affiliation:
1. School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
2. School of Health University of the Sunshine Coast Sippy Downs Queensland Australia
3. Child Health Research Centre The University of Queensland South Brisbane Queensland Australia
Abstract
AbstractResearch 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.