Relational Health in Pediatrics

Abstract

The American Academy of Pediatrics 2021 Policy Statement called for a paradigm shift that would prioritize clinical activities, rewrite research agendas, and realign collective advocacy by promoting relational health in partnership with communities and families. This seminal statement accelerated innovation toward high-performing medical homes, elevated family leadership and voices from family lived experiences, and advanced child health policies to move toward equity, child flourishing, and long-term well-being. More strengths-based, family-driven, and community connected practices among pediatric providers are essential to success. Early relational health approaches offer many opportunities for promoting social-emotional well-being, mental health, and flourishing.

Keywords: Child health care; Early relational health; Equity; Maternal child health; Parent-child interactions; Pediatrics.