Impact of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder on families.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) on child and family functioning.

Design: Prospective survey.

Setting: Multidisciplinary FASD assessment service.

Recognition of attachment difficulties and developmental trauma is the responsibility of all paediatricians.

This article provides an overview of attachment theory, developmental trauma and trauma-informed care for paediatricians. The impact of difficult or impoverished parent-child relationships on brain development and long-term health is now well known. Recent neuroscience research reveals the adverse neurological impacts of developmental trauma and supports the biological basis of attachment theory.