A systematic review protocol to explore the prevalence and impacts of neurodevelopmental disorders in the care experienced by the looked after population

Abstract Background: A looked after child (LAC) is defined as a child or young adult, that has been placed in either a foster care, kinship, residential or adoption care setting. While embedded in the care of these services, these children still develop debilitating disorders that significantly impact their future overall wellbeing. Prevalence of these disorders are often depicted under broad, umbrella categories such as mental, behavioural or developmental disorders. What specific disorders fall under these broad categories is limited in research. This review aims to explore the prevalence and early impacts of neurodevelopmental disorders in the LAC and if feasible, compare prevalence with those children who are not looked after (NoN-LAC). Disorders such as dyslexia, bipolar and autism which are classified as neurodevelopmental or associated disorders in the expert field of genetics and neuropsychiatry will be explored. These disorders significantly impact on emotions, memory, ability to learn and socialize and are diagnosed solely based on behaviour. As a result; attaining a diagnosis can take years due to the associated complex behavioural symptomology.With an increasing rate of children entering the care system on a global level; it is an appropriate time to examine the prevalence and impact of these neurodevelopmental disorders in this already, vulnerable population.Methods: A literature search will be conducted using several multiple databases such as PubMed, PsychINFO and Web of Science Core Collection. Secondary literature, grey literature and government publications will also be searched systematically to further identify any eligible studies. Children involved in foster, residential, adopted or kinship care will be identified as a LAC. NoN-LAC will be children who are not placed in the looked after care setting. The age limit is 25 years as the review aims to explore the earlier impacts these disorders may have on the overall wellbeing of these children. Appropriate statistical techniques will be utilised and adapted throughout the review dependent on the research designs of the eligible studies. Discussion: This review could identify gaps in LAC research and potentially contribute to the understanding of the adverse life outcomes that many of these children are predicted to attain. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO Registration number: CRD4201913103