Evolution of Parent-Targeted Interventions for Pain-Predominant Disorders of Gut–Brain Interactions: Research and Clinical Practice Considerations

Abstract

Objective:

Abdominal pain-related disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBIs) in children are best understood from a biopsychosocial model, including particular attention to the child’s environment. Interventions have begun to increasingly target parents as important agents of change in this population. The purpose of this article is to summarize the evolution of parent-targeted interventions for pediatric pain-related DGBIs and provide recommendations for application of the model to clinical practice.

Method:

A topical review of literature regarding parent-targeted interventions and related factors in the treatment of pediatric pain-related DGBIs was conducted, followed by a discussion of these findings to clinical practice settings.

Results:

A growing body of research has supported parent-targeted interventions in the treatment of pediatric pain-related DGBIs, although translation of these findings to practice settings is complicated by numerous factors. Strategies for obtaining physician buy-in and parental engagement are discussed, as are potential logistical considerations of multiple caregivers, child age, and billing considerations.

Conclusions:

There is a promising and growing evidence-base for parent-targeted interventions for pain-related DGBIs, which have not yet been widely adopted into clinical practice recommendations. Engaging all stakeholders and attending to the nuances of this approach are recommended to successfully apply parent-targeted interventions into clinical practice settings.

Implications for Impact Statement

The role of parents in treating children with pain-related disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBIs) has been an increasing area of study. This article summarizes the research on interventions for DGBIs that focus on parents as agents of change and provides practical considerations for applying this research to clinical, “real-world” settings.