title: Family context in pediatric psychology: a transactional perspective.
abstract: The degree to which the family is seen as a significant contributor to child health conditions impacts directly on the successful functioning of the pediatric psychologist. A transactional model of family functioning is proposed for pediatric psychology. Development is considered to be the result of a three-part process that starts with child behavior that triggers family interpretation that produces a parental response. Family interpretation is presented as part of a regulatory system that includes family paradigms, family stories, and family rituals. Corresponding to the proposed three-part regulation model, three forms of intervention are discussed: remediation, redefinition, and reeducation. Clinical decision making based on this model is outlined with examples given from different treatment approaches. Implications for the treatment of families in pediatric psychology are discussed.
authors.forename: B H
authors.initials: BH
authors.lastname: Fiese
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Sameroff
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology*; D005190:Family; D006801:Humans; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012803:Sick Role; D012931:Social Environment