The Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Family Support across Europe: A Narrative Review

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jan 28;19(3):1488. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19031488.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to deliver parenting and mental health support services to families. This narrative review illustrates the diverse ways in which ICT is being used across Europe to provide family support to different populations. We distinguish between the use of ICT in professional-led and peer-led support and provide implementation examples from across Europe. We discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of different ways of using ICT in family support and the main developments and challenges for the field more generally, guiding decision-making as to how to use ICT in family support, as well as critical reflections and future research on its merit.

Keywords: ICT; family support; information and communication technologies; online; peer-led support; professional-led support; programs delivered through videoconference; psychoeducation; self-directed programs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Communication
  • Europe
  • Humans
  • Pandemics*
  • SARS-CoV-2