Evaluation of a Parent Education and Support Program for Families at Risk of Physical Child Abuse

Abstract

The effectiveness of a community-based parent education and support program in ameliorating risk factors associated with physical child abuse was tested. Data were collected on 34 families at three points in time with a combination of questionnaires, interviews, and telephone contacts. Parental depression and stress were significantly reduced, but social support and child misbehaviors were not. The authors offer suggestions for tailoring programs, including strategies to treat depression and stress, the addition of social-skills training to facilitate involvement in healthy support networks, and the development of a cohesive child program. Parent–child programs that are part of a comprehensive service-delivery system may have the best chance for meeting the needs of violent families.