Family-focused practices in addictions: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Addiction research
• Family therapy
• Public health

Background:

• Addiction significantly impacts families, yet treatment often remains individual-focused.
• Family involvement in addiction treatment is linked to better outcomes, including treatment entry, completion, and success.
• Current research and services largely overlook the crucial role of families in addiction recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of family interventions in addiction treatment.
• To map the extent, range, and nature of available evidence on family-focused addiction services.
• To identify research, policy, and practice gaps in family-inclusive addiction care.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a five-stage scoping review framework (Arksey and O'Malley).
• Inclusion of published and unpublished empirical studies (2000-present) in English or French.
• Comprehensive literature search across MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Social Services Abstracts, reference lists, and key journals, followed by thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• This review will be the first to comprehensively examine all family-focused practices for substance use and problem gambling in adults.
• It will illuminate current service provisions and highlight critical gaps in family-centered addiction care.
• Findings will inform the development of evidence-based best practices for integrating families into addiction treatment.

Conclusions:

• Family interventions are vital for improving addiction treatment outcomes.
• There is a significant need to expand research and services focusing on family involvement in addiction treatment.
• This review provides a foundation for developing best practices to support families affected by addiction.