Recognizing the impact of marital discord and parental depression on children. A family-centered approach

Abstract

The American family is changing. Pediatricians are increasingly aware of treating children within a family systems context. Patients present with a variety of biopsychosocial problems, and pediatrics must continue to adjust to fit the changing needs of children and their families. Pediatricians must view themselves as members of a community of caretakers for families and children. The pediatrician faces increasing responsibility in responding to the increased stress experienced by children and their families. Family-focused pediatrics is becoming an increasingly accepted part of pediatric practice. The authors have sought to provide strategies for assessing and intervening with families in which depression and marital discord are impairing children's well-being and development. The pediatrician's role as a trusted family consultant creates a unique situation in which problems that often go unnoticed and unattended can be recognized and addressed early. In this way, children can be spared the consequences of exposure to parental conflict and the decreased functioning of a depressed parent.