Priority 4 from the Neurodevelopmental Disorders Canada PSP

UNCERTAINTY: Which child and family-centered interventions or approaches promote optimal individual and family functioning?  (JLA PSP Priority 4)
Overall ranking 4
JLA question ID 0056/4
Explanatory note This question arose from the need to think beyond the biology and to determine the best approach to focusing on the child or family unit as a whole, in a way that will improve their day-to-day function. At home, in the absence of healthcare and service providers, families want to be better able to implement a strategy to improve the overall wellness of their child(ren) and the family unit. This 'wellness' may include reduced stress, better management of challenging behaviours, improving socialability, and parenting stratgies to promote independence of their child(ren).
Evidence Systematic review: Spain D, Sin J, Paliokosta E, FurutaM, Prunty JE, Chalder T,Murphy DG, Happé FG. Family therapy for autism spectrum disorders. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2017, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD011894. DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD011894.pub2
Health Research Classification System category Mental Health
Extra information provided by this PSP
Original uncertainty examples Can we shift the focus of our interest from 'child' to child-and-family'?~ What aspects of what we do promote optimal child and family functioning [considered together] and development?~ How can we work with individuals with ND in a way that makes them and their caregivers feel encouraged, supported, and empowered? ~ What interventions exist for families affected by NDD? 
Submitted by Mostly family members/carers, also clinicians and patients 
PSP information
PSP unique ID 0056
PSP name Neurodevelopmental Disorders (Canada)
Total number of uncertainties identified by this PSP. 63  (To see a full list of all uncertainties identified, please see the detailed spreadsheet held on the JLA website)
Date of priority setting workshop 28 September 2017