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. 2011 Jan 1;24(1):6-28.
doi: 10.1097/IYC.0b013e3182002cfe.

Why Early Intervention Works: A Systems Perspective

Michael J Guralnick  1
Affiliations

Why Early Intervention Works: A Systems Perspective

Michael J Guralnick. Infants Young Child. .

Abstract

A systems perspective is put forward designed to place the many diverse conceptual and practice approaches and accomplishments in the early intervention field within a common framework. Complex reciprocal patterns of influence are described emphasizing risk and protective factors operating at 3 levels: child social and cognitive competence, family patterns of interaction, and family resources. It is argued that this framework can provide an understanding with respect to why early intervention works when it does as well as establish a new assessment and intervention approach firmly grounded in developmental science.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The 3 levels of the developmental systems approach illustrating their interrelationships and reciprocal influences including the effects of stressors on the system.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Model illustrating how organizational processes and developmental resources, framed by a goal structure, constitute the basis for a child’s social and cognitive competence.
Figure 3
Figure 3
The developmental systems approach framework illustrating the influence of the 3 family patterns of interaction with their key components.
Figure 4
Figure 4
The developmental systems approach framework illustrating the role of family resources as the foundation for the 3 family patterns of interaction.
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