Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Identification, Prevention, and Intervention

Course overview

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a severe condition caused by moderate to heavy alcohol use by the mother during pregnancy. It can result in long-term physical, behavioral, and intellectual consequences in individuals who experienced this prenatal exposure to alcohol. Mental health providers can better support clients facing challenges due to FAS when they understand the complexities of FAS and the importance of intervention in mitigating its effects. The purpose of this learning material is to prepare social workers, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and counselors to recognize FAS in clients and to use effective interventions and approaches when working with these clients and their families. Clinicians work with a variety of clients, including individuals at risk of alcohol use during pregnancy, individuals living with disabilities caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol, and individuals supporting and/or caring for those affected by FAS. This learning material presents the cause, risk factors, signs, and symptoms of FAS and provides an explanation of the syndrome's diagnostic impression and influencing factors. It also discusses the ethical considerations and cultural components associated with FAS and prevention interventions for mothers at risk. Upon completion of this learning material, providers will be able to apply prevention and intervention methods to support clients facing challenges due to FAS.