Family Medicine Strategies in Enhancing Paternal and Sibling Participation in the Rehabilitation of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Review

Abstract

Background: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) in children, including conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy, represent a significant global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The family unit is crucial in managing the healthcare needs of affected children, yet the engagement levels of fathers and siblings remain inadequately documented.

Methods: This scoping review employed the Joanna Briggs Institute’s 9-step process to systematically assess existing literature regarding the involvement of fathers and siblings in home rehabilitation programs for children with NDD. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles and grey literature, focusing on the extent of familial participation and the barriers and facilitators influencing engagement.

Results: The review revealed a notable disparity in the involvement of fathers compared to mothers, with participation rates ranging from 12% to 91% across various studies. While paternal engagement positively impacted maternal stress levels and child developmental outcomes, the involvement of siblings was less quantitatively documented, despite anecdotal evidence suggesting their supportive roles. Key enablers for participation included familial harmony and stigma reduction, while barriers were predominantly cultural beliefs, economic constraints, and limited educational attainment among fathers.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a crucial gap in the literature regarding father and sibling participation in the rehabilitation of children with NDD, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to enhance familial support systems. Addressing the identified barriers and promoting inclusive practices could significantly improve outcomes for children and alleviate caregiver stress.