Longitudinal associations between family factors and the neurodevelopmental and psychosocial outcomes of children with congenital heart disease: A systematic review.
Chris McCusker, Lucy Phillips, Stephanie Murphy
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined longitudinal studies to assess the impact of family factors on neurodevelopmental and psychosocial outcomes in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Eighteen studies involving 2109 participants were analyzed, revealing that family factors more consistently predicted psychosocial outcomes than disease severity indicators. The study quality ranged from 'good' to 'fair'.
Key findings
- Family factors predicted later child psychosocial outcomes more consistently than disease severity indicators.
- A smaller number of studies showed no reliable conclusions regarding family factors and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- The review included 18 studies with a total of 2109 participants.
- Follow-up periods extended from infancy into young adulthood.
Why it matters
Understanding the influence of family dynamics on child outcomes in CHD can guide clinicians in developing targeted interventions. Emphasizing family-focused strategies may improve psychosocial well-being in affected children.
What to keep in mind
Key limitations included attrition and limited sociocultural diversity in the study samples.