Academic research explores family support and clinical therapy engagement

Academic research from Utah State University and the University of Kentucky explores new frameworks for supporting families dealing with addiction and clinical therapy engagement.

At Utah State University, Brooke Stanton developed a qualitative support group approach designed for adult children of parents with addiction. The project aims to address emotional instability and relational impacts by providing a safe environment for peer connection, emotional processing, and resilience building to reduce isolation.

At the University of Kentucky, Awtum P. Johnson investigated methods to improve family engagement in children’s clinical therapy. The research proposes the ‘Connected Systems of Care’ (CSC) framework, which integrates salutogenic concepts and ecological systems theory. The model focuses on caregiver well-being, effective communication, and systemic support to prevent treatment dropout and improve outcomes for both parents and children.