FAMILY-BASED INTERVENTION WITH HIGH-RISK INFANTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

A model of family-based intervention for high-risk infants hospitalize d in the neonatal intensive care unit and their families is presented. The theoretical underpinnings, principles, and nature of the interven tion are described The adaptation of the model from a clinical-researc h demonstration project to a clinical consultation service is highligh ted with particular emphasis on the practical application of the model . Domains of the intervention include infant behavior, family organiza tion and functioning, caregiving environment, and home discharge/commu nity resources. Three case illustrations are provided to demonstrate t he breadth of the intervention and how it can be individualized based upon the presentation of the infant and family.