Fetal alcohol syndrome effects on infant development

FAS

Physical, Psychological, and Socioemotional Development during Infancy

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

There is no known safe dosage of alcohol that a woman can imbibe during pregnancy: the safest policy for a pregnant woman to pursue is not to drink at all (FADS, 2009, CDC). Sadly, some women continue to drink while they are pregnant, either because of an addiction to alcohol, a lack of education about the dangers alcohol can pose to their fetus, or a lack of awareness of the fact they are pregnant until it is too late. Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) require additional care and support, and it is essential that adoptive parents are aware of the physical, psychological, and socio-emotional effects of the syndrome.

Physical effects

Children with FAS often have a smooth ridge between their nose and upper lip. They tend to be short for their age, have small heads, and their body weight is low from infancy onwards. The often have heart, bone or kidney-related health issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are "significant changes in the structure of the brain as seen on brain scans such as MRIs or CT scans" of children with FAS (Diagnosis, 2009, CDC).

As a result of these neurological problems, children with FAS may exhibit poor coordination, and learn to walk, talk, and engage in age-appropriate physical behavior (like sucking as an infant) at a later date than their peers, or not at all. Vision and hearing problems are also common, and the child may require corrective lenses or a hearing aid to engage in normal communication and/or participate in normal activities. Sleep problems are also common, compared with non-exposed infants (FASD, 2009, CDC).

Socio-emotional effects

Because of their hyperactivity and low frustration tolerance, children with FAS and FAE often have difficulty relating to adults and their peers in a positive manner. The child's speech and language delays can also create barriers between the child and his or her peers, as can the child's cognitive deficits.

Conclusion

Choosing to adopt an infant known to have FAS or an alcohol-related effect disorder is a considerable challenge. Before adopting, it may be wise to have the child evaluated by a physician, and if any doubt remains a CT or MRI scan can be ordered to provide further information about the child's cognitive status. Even if a prospective parent is certain he or she wishes to adopt a particular child, it is necessary to know if the child has FAS or FAE to provide the necessary academic and social support for the child to thrive.