Family-focused behavioral pediatrics: clinical techniques for primary care

Whenever a behavioral or psychosocial problem presents in a child, all members of the family are affected. Conversely, when the problem lies within the family, the child is affected and often presents as the symptomatic patient. The goals of family-focused pediatrics are to: 1) determine the need for a family intervention; 2) conduct a family interview-assessment; 3) clarify the issues; 4) teach healthy communication skills and interactions; and 5) facilitate generation of family goals and solutions. Family-focused strategies provide an effective, brief, and timely approach that can aid the pediatrician in helping children and their families function in more healthy and satisfying ways.