Can a Brief Strength-Based Parenting Intervention Boost Self-Efficacy and Positive Emotions in Parents?

Abstract

Although strength-based interventions have been employed with general and targeted adult samples, to date, no published research has examined the effect of strength-based interventions for parents. Given that parenting can trigger both ill-being and wellbeing outcomes, more research is needed to examine how to help parents thrive and to meet Seligman’s (Am Psychol, 54(8), 559–562, 1999) early calls for the application of positive psychology in families. The current study (N = 137) measured the effect of a three-week strength-based parenting intervention on parental self-efficacy and positive emotions using a quasi-experimental, waitlist comparison group design. Parents were shown how to identify and cultivate strengths in themselves and their children. Compared to parents in the comparison group, parents who undertook the strength-based intervention showed gains in self-efficacy (i.e., greater confidence and perceived ability to successfully raise their children) and positive emotions when thinking about their children. These results suggest that strength-based approaches could help boost parental wellbeing. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.