Psychological Interventions for Individuals with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: a Systematic Review

Objectives

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is common microdeletion syndrome associated with intellectual and learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, and a complex physical phenotype. The aim of this review was to build upon a previous systematic review on this topic and identify psychological interventions attempting to address the behavioural (including cognitive and emotional) phenotype of the syndrome.

Methods

Articles were reviewed and organised as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for conducting systematic reviews. The literature search identified 1124 studies, out of which nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The nine studies are summarised in terms of (a) study design and follow-up, (b) populations involved, (c) intervention characteristics, and (d) feasibility.

Results

The findings indicate that it is important to consider the individual’s needs, developmental stage, and the syndrome-specific behavioural phenotype when implementing (and evaluating) psychological interventions.

Conclusions

The existing literature has a heavy focus on the delineation of the behavioural phenotype and associated psychiatric comorbidities but there are very few studies exploring how to adapt and implement effective interventions to support the mental health and well-being of people with 22q11.2DS. Future studies are required to evaluate the feasibility of interventions as well as the effectiveness in reducing distress, building skills, and improving quality of life.