title: Comparing an Emotion- and a Behavior-Focused Parenting Program as Part of a Multsystemic Intervention for Child Conduct Problems.
abstract: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a multisystemic early intervention that included a comparison of an emotion- and behavior-focused parenting program for children with emerging conduct problems. The processes that moderated positive child outcomes were also explored. A repeated measures cluster randomized group design methodology was employed with three conditions (Tuning in to Kids, Positive Parenting Program, and waitlist control) and two periods (preintervention and 6-month follow-up). The sample consisted of 320 predominantly Caucasian 4- to 9-year-old children who were screened for disruptive behavior problems. Three outcome measures of child conduct problems were evaluated using a parent (Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory) and teacher (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) rating scale and a structured child interview (Home Interview With Child). Six moderators were assessed using family demographic information and a parent-rated measure of psychological well-being (Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales short form). The results indicated that the multisystemic intervention was effective compared to a control group and that, despite different theoretical orientations, the emotion- and behavior-focused parenting programs were equally effective in reducing child conduct problems. Child age and parent psychological well-being moderated intervention response. This effectiveness trial supports the use of either emotion- or behavior-focused parenting programs in a multisystemic early intervention and provides greater choice for practitioners in the selection of specific programs.
authors.affiliation: a School of Psychological Sciences , University of Melbourne.
authors.forename: Melissa E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Duncombe
authors.affiliation: b Department of Psychiatry , University of Melbourne.
authors.forename: Sophie S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Havighurst
authors.affiliation: b Department of Psychiatry , University of Melbourne.
authors.forename: Christiane E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Kehoe
authors.affiliation: c Bendigo Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and Schools Early Action , Bendigo Health.
authors.forename: Kerry A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Holland
authors.affiliation: d Austin Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and Schools Early Action , Austin Health.
authors.forename: Emma J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Frankling
authors.affiliation: e Melbourne Murdoch Children's Research Institute , La Trobe University.
authors.forename: Robyn
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Stargatt
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D002648:Child; D002652:Child Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D002675:Child, Preschool; D018479:Early Intervention, Educational; D004493:Education / Q000379:methods*; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010287:Parent-Child Relations; D016487:Parenting / Q000523:psychology*; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D000066553:Problem Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires