Family outcomes in early intervention: results from a nationwide study in Portugal

Abstract

Several studies have stressed the outcomes for families who are supported by Early Intervention in the following dimensions: knowledge/information; development of competencies; well-being; and quality of life. As a result, this study assessed 999 families to examine the outcomes of Early Intervention in Portugal. Our results show that families supported by Early Intervention benefit in dimensions related to the development of competencies in the child and the family, and to the gain of information and knowledge about support and community resources, which results in perceived control and co-responsibility. The analysis of the outcomes of Early Intervention also shows that parents' education and occupation levels are determining variables for a family to benefit from the positive impact of Early Intervention. In light of such results, we present recommendations for practices in the area of Early Intervention with the aim of adapting the practices of professionals to the concerns and priorities of Portuguese families.

Views of Parents of Children With Down Syndrome on Early Intervention Services in Turkey

“…This is followed by psychological, financial, educational, and social support. This finding is consistent with the results of several other studies in the literature (e.g., Çiftçi, 2015; Gören, 2015; Leite & Pereira, 2020; Natoli et al, 2012).…”

Family Benefits of Early Intervention: A Scoping Review

“…In recent years, family-centered practices have been highlighted as the model predominantly recommended by the literature and research to provide better results and benefits for supported families (Bruder, 2012;HughesScholes & GavidiaPayne, 2019;Leite & Pereira, 2020). Recent studies, in addition to highlighting the effectiveness of their results in the development of children, have emphasized the potential of family-centered practices for the care and support of families, demonstrating their positive outcomes in the interaction between children and their family members, in the well-being and satisfaction of families, as well as in co-responsibility among all those involved (Espe-Sherwindt & Serrano, 2020;Serrano, 2007;Serrano & Pereira, 2010).…”

“…Recent studies, in addition to highlighting the effectiveness of their results in the development of children, have emphasized the potential of family-centered practices for the care and support of families, demonstrating their positive outcomes in the interaction between children and their family members, in the well-being and satisfaction of families, as well as in co-responsibility among all those involved (Espe-Sherwindt & Serrano, 2020;Serrano, 2007;Serrano & Pereira, 2010). Among the benefits for families that benefit from EI support, three areas are emphasized in the literature: knowledge and information, skills development, and well-being and quality of life (Bailey et al, 2004;Cossio et al, 2018;Dunst, 2015;Leite & Pereira, 2020;Mas et al, 2019;Pereira & Serrano, 2014). Thus, the goal of this study is to review the papers published in the scientific literature that portray the knowledge of the benefits, support, or care that benefit the families of children with SEN and at risk in EI services.…”