Rapid review of clinical reunification intervention to families

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The aim of this paper is to examine literature on the clinical content of reunification interventions social workers render to families. Methodology: A rapid review of the literature was carried out. Electronic databases, such as eBook Collection (EBSCOhost), PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, SocINDEX with Full Text, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL with Full Text, and JSTOR Journals, were explored by making use of specific keywords. A quality appraisal was done using the CASP (2018), the AACODS checklist, and the EPHPP (2009) to appraise the quantitative studies. Eleven articles were synthesised using thematic analysis. Main Findings: The review indicates that the exact nature of the clinical content of reunification intervention rendered to families is not clear, although empirical evidence suggests that the clinical content of reunification intervention rendered to families comprises of engagement, parental visiting and contact, parenting capacity building, and support groups. In addition, supporting birth parents with concrete resources like transportation and stable housing can be identified as an extra intervention that may support successful reunification. Applications of this study: This study has the potential to contribute to the child welfare system by enhancing the need for programmes and policies that focus on addressing the clinical characteristics of family reunification interventions. Recommendations were made that can provide guidance and insight on the important aspects that should form part of reunification services to meet the emotional and psychological needs of the children and their birth families. Novelty/Originality of this study: The outcome of the study has provided insight into components that are regarded to be of importance and should form part of the clinical content of reunification services rendered to families.