Family mediation in families with drug-dependent children. Literature review

Abstract

This study analyzes the relationship between family mediation and addiction treatment in adolescents and young adults, with particular attention to its contribution to improving family dynamics and preventing relapse.
A systematized literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA framework. The search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Medline, where 1,548 records were initially identified. After removing duplicates and applying the
inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 studies were selected for the final analysis. 
The findings show a favorable association between the use of family mediation models and improved functioning of the family system. Specifically, mediation promotes assertive communication, reduces blame-based interaction patterns, supports the repair of family  bonds, strengthens parental support, and facilitates family agreements linked to treatment. The Circular-Narrative, Transformative, and Harvard models are particularly useful for reframing conflict, fostering mutual recognition, and developing verifiable commitments.
In conclusion, family mediation emerges as a relevant complementary tool in psychosocial intervention with families of drug-dependent children. According to the evidence reviewed, its integration into clinical and community-based programs may be associated with stronger family protective factors and greater support for recovery processes, although these findings do not allow a direct causal relationship to be established. However, further longitudinal studies, comparative designs, and specialized training for mediators in the field of addictions are needed.