From surviving to thriving: A new conceptual model to advance interventions to support people with FASD across the lifespan

Abstract

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders associated with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Research on FASD has generally focused on challenges faced by this population while insight into strengths and quality of life has lagged. We introduce the “From Surviving to Thriving” model, which proposes a paradigm shift toward a strengths-based, holistic intervention approach to support thriving in people with FASD. Based on a focused intervention review, existing interventions for FASD incorporate many elements that are consistent with a strengths-based framework, such as inclusion of environmental accommodations and fortification of natural supports. However, a comprehensive strengths-based framework has yet to be fully realized, tested, or adopted in community settings. Important areas of growth remain and notable systems-level barriers need to be addressed. We propose six directions to advance interventions for FASD toward a more person-centered, strengths-based approach. These involve reduction of stigma, improved measurement of strengths and thriving, utilization of strengths-based frameworks, community knowledge translation, adaptation of existing, effective models for FASD, and increased efforts to reach underserved populations.