Parent engagement in an integrated care parenting intervention to prevent toxic stress
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2020
Identifier
DOI: 10.1037/cpp0000361
Abstract
Objective: This study assessed parent engagement and satisfaction with an evidence-based parenting intervention delivered within a pediatric primary care clinic serving families at-risk for toxic stress.
Method: Ten pilot study parent participants (all female; 80% African American; mean age = 26.1 years) completed sociodemographic, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) history, depression, social support, and session satisfaction measures to assess parent characteristics and intervention satisfaction. Parent attendance was assessed and thematic analysis of session notes was conducted to assess parent engagement in intervention sessions.
Results: Sixty percent of respondents had elevated ACE scores (Total Score ≥4), and 27% of respondents had elevated Edinburgh (Total Score ≥10). Attendance in intervention sessions was inconsistent. Thematic analysis indicated that parents demonstrated several engagement behaviors during sessions they attended, including sharing opinions/disclosing information and providing one’s point of view. Follow-through with activities recommended during intervention sessions was more likely when linked to parents’ personal strengths or concerns. Parents reported all session content as “helpful or “very helpful” and would recommend the program to others.
Conclusions: Parents experiencing risk factors for toxic stress may face challenges in consistently attending integrated care parenting intervention sessions but engage in sessions they attend. Strategies for engaging parents at risk for toxic stress in a primary care-based parenting program include building from parent strengths, addressing identified parent concerns, offering proactive support including parent mental health promotion, and building trusting relationships.
Journal Title
Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology
Volume
8
Issue
3
First Page
298
Last Page
303
Recommended Citation
Woods-Jaeger, B., Thompson, J. E., Foye-Fletcher, A., Siedlik, E., Chakawa, A., Dalbey, K., & Gupta, R. C. (2020). Parent engagement in an integrated care parenting intervention to prevent toxic stress. Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology, 8(3), 298–303. https://doi.org/10.1037/cpp0000361
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