Evaluating Parent Education Groups: Effects on Sense of Competence and Social Isolation

Abstract

One-hundred twenty-four mothers from eight community service regions in the Australian state of Tasmania participated in a study of parent education services provided in a small group format. Using a no-treatment control group design, it was predicted that participation in parent education groups would enhance the mother's sense of competence as a parent, reduce parental social isolation, and improve child comportment. These hypotheses were partially supported. Participation in parent education groups did enhance the mother's sense of competence immediately posttreatment, but reductions in social isolation and child difficulty were not found until the 3-month follow-up. Although a variety of parent education group formats were employed, there were no appreciable differences among them in terms of effectiveness. Further applications for social work practice are discussed.