As practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology and child mental health, it is crucial to leverage evidence-based interventions to achieve the best outcomes for children. One such intervention is parental-group therapy, as demonstrated by a recent study conducted in India titled Parental-Group Interventions for Parents of Children with Mental Health Problems Admitted in a Tertiary Care Center: An Experience from India.
The study's objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of a six-session parental-group intervention module in improving parents' understanding of their children's mental health problems and developing their skills to manage these issues. Over six months, data were collected from 105 parents, with 85 completing all sessions. The results were overwhelmingly positive, showing that group-based parenting programs significantly improved both parental psychosocial health and the emotional and behavioral problems of children.
Key Findings
- 74 parents found the demonstration sessions through role play the most effective.
- 71 parents appreciated the sessions on parenting skills and stress management.
- 68 parents benefited from sessions on school-related issues.
- 60 parents gained valuable insights into developmental disorders.
- 54 parents found sessions on emotional and behavioral problems helpful.
Implications for Practitioners
The study underscores the importance of structured, group-based parenting programs in enhancing parental skills and reducing child behavioral issues. Here are some practical takeaways for practitioners:
- Implement Structured Programs: Design your interventions to include structured sessions focusing on specific issues such as developmental disorders, emotional and behavioral problems, and school-related issues.
- Use Demonstrations: Incorporate role-plays and video vignettes to demonstrate behavioral modification techniques effectively.
- Encourage Parental Involvement: Foster a supportive group environment where parents can share experiences and learn from each other.
- Focus on Skill-Building: Emphasize parenting skills and stress management to equip parents with practical tools for daily challenges.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the need for further research to develop standardized, culturally sensitive intervention modules. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by conducting their own studies and sharing their findings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Parental-Group Interventions for Parents of Children with Mental Health Problems Admitted in a Tertiary Care Center: An Experience from India.
