Exploring the contributions and suitability of relational and community-centered fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) prevention work in First Nation communities.

BACKGROUND

This study provides initial evidence of the contributions and suitability of relational, trauma-informed, and community-based approaches for programs aimed at the prevention of future alcohol-and drug-exposed births. Specifically, this study extends understanding of the experiences of mentors providing evidence-based 3-year home visitation services through the Parent-Child Assistance Program (PCAP) in rural and isolated First Nation communities in Alberta, Canada.

METHODS

Using a participatory approach to this research project, we explored existing PCAP services to capture implementation across six rural and isolated Alberta fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) networks involving First Nation communities over an 8-month period. In total, we generated qualitative data with 35 participants to examine mentors' perceptions of the impacts and suitability of a relational, trauma-informed, and community-based approach to service delivery.

RESULTS

Six major themes were revealed from the thematic analysis as key mechanisms of culturally responsive program delivery across the six FASD networks.

CONCLUSIONS

Relational, trauma-informed, and community-centered FASD prevention programming was perceived to have positive impacts and be well suited for use within Indigenous communities, and allow for service delivery to be locally and culturally responsive.