title: Randomized controlled trial of a family problem-solving intervention.
abstract: Adaptive problem solving contributes to individual and family health and development. In this article, the effect of the cooperative family learning approach (CFLA) on group family problem solving and on cooperative parenting communication is described. A pretest or posttest experimental design was used. Participant families were recruited from Head Start programs and exhibited two or more risk factors. Participant preschool children were screened to have two or more developmental delays. Direct behavioral observation measures were used to determine group family problem solving and cooperative parenting communication outcomes. Few group family problem-solving behaviors were coded, and they displayed little variability. However, intervention parents increased the length of time they played and extended the cooperative parent-child interactions. The evidence shows that CFLA has the potential to enhance parental-modeling of cooperative behavior while engaged in play activities with preschoolers. Direct measurement of group family problem solving was difficult. Solutions are suggested.
authors.affiliation: University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Drummond
authors.forename: Darcy
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fleming
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: McDonald
authors.forename: Gerard M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Kysela
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D003463:Cues; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D010988:Play and Playthings / Q000523:psychology; D011340:Problem Solving; D015397:Program Evaluation; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D014743:Videotape Recording