Integrating Faith-based and Community-based Participatory Research Approaches to Adapt the Korean Parent Training Program

Abstract

PurposeFaith and community based inquiry approaches are rarely used to develop research interventions. The purpose of this article is to present how a research team worked with six Korean American Christian churches to revise the prototype Korean Parent Training Program (KPTP), based upon the Bright Futures Parenting Program. The collaboration was sought to better integrate and align the KPTP with Korean culture and faith. The KPTP was developed to promote positive parenting practices and decrease mental health disparities of Korean American children. Design and MethodsSixteen church participants completed a Delphi survey, a workshop series, Community Theaters, and focus groups. ResultsThe participants suggested adding Korean traditional parenting virtues, Christian parenting principles, and revising the standardized parent training and program philosophy. ConclusionsRevisions made KPTP sensitive to Korean culture and faith, and promoted program acceptability. ImplicationsThe process demonstrated the importance of working with church volunteers to develop faith-based and community-based health promotion interventions targeting Korean American faith communities. This research presents significant and meaningful implications for working with other faith communities from minority backgrounds.