Lived experiences of adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
Kelly Skorka, Jodie Copley, Catherine McBryde and 2 others
PMID 35637620WHAT IT FOUND
Four adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder described anxiety as a primary barrier to daily activities.
They identified routines, supportive relationships, and using personal talents as key factors that helped them overcome this anxiety and participate.
Key findings
01Anxiety was the main barrier to participation in daily activities, leading to avoidance or reliance on caregivers.
02External supports such as routines, scripts, and environmental modifications helped adolescents manage anxiety and engage in activities.
03Adolescents used their talents and interests, such as art or photography, to facilitate participation in tasks they would otherwise avoid.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The sample was very small (four adolescents) and self-selected, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The use of photo elicitation may have attracted participants with artistic interests, potentially biasing the results toward those who enjoy visual or creative expression. Interviews were conducted via Zoom, which may have influenced engagement differently for each participant, with some finding it more comfortable and others more overwhelming. Two adolescents required caregiver presence during the interview to facilitate participation due to anxiety, which may have influenced the responses.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest. The study was supported by non-U.S. government funding.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret these findings as evidence that specific interventions reduce anxiety or improve participation. This is a small qualitative study describing lived experiences, not a trial testing the effectiveness of a treatment.