A developmental approach to mental health for children and adolescents with orofacial clefts

The mental health of children, adolescents, and adults with orofacial clefts has been studied extensively. Outcomes of interest have included parental adaptation, parent-child attachment, child development, intellectual and academic outcomes, behavioral adaptation, and quality of life. The literature sheds light on mental health needs and opportunities in each of these domains at various stages of development. However, this research has been limited in several respects and methodologically rigorous studies are needed to clarify the role of mental health in craniofacial team care. In particular, randomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy of psychosocial interventions tailored for this population are long overdue. Such studies have the potential to advance routine mental health care for individuals with orofacial clefts to the level of 'evidence-based care.'