Clinical Considerations in the Assessment of Infants and Young Children Affected by Parental Substance Abuse

Abstract

Focusing on families affected by parental substance abuse, this article discusses literature relevant to pediatric physical therapists and occupational therapists, describes examples of research assessment of this population. Based on what we currently know as a result of empirical studies, and what we have learned clinically from infants and families affected by substance abuse, recommendations are made for pediatric physical therapy and occupational therapy assessments of this infant population. Pediatric therapists may with to consider a transactional developmental model that includes examination over time of the biologic, environmental, and interactional risk and and protective factors in infants and young children.