Understanding Barriers and Facilitators in Parenting Interventions
Parenting is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. For many Filipino-American parents, participating in evidence-based parenting programs like "Incredible Years" (IY) can offer valuable tools and support. However, cultural and social barriers often hinder participation. A recent study conducted in Los Angeles sheds light on these barriers and offers insights into how practitioners can better support Filipino families.
Key Findings from the Study
The study identified several benefits and barriers to participation in the IY program among Filipino parents:
- Benefits: Parents reported learning effective parenting techniques, such as positive reinforcement, which improved their children's behavior and their family dynamics. Networking with other parents provided additional support and insights.
- Motivations: The primary motivation for parents was to enhance their parenting skills and improve relationships with their children. The cultural adaptation of the program for Filipino families was also a significant draw.
- Barriers: Cultural stigma and discomfort with sharing personal issues were major barriers. Many parents feared judgment and stigma related to perceived incompetence in parenting.
Implementing Insights for Practitioners
For practitioners working with Filipino families, understanding these insights is crucial. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Cultural Sensitivity: Tailor interventions to respect and incorporate Filipino cultural values. Understanding concepts like "hiya" (shame) and "bahala na" (passive acceptance) can help in designing more effective programs.
- Community Engagement: Leverage community leaders such as teachers, pastors, and physicians to endorse programs. Their influence can help overcome trust issues and encourage participation.
- Use of Testimonials: Sharing success stories from parents who have benefited from the program can be a powerful motivator for others to join.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore how cultural mistrust can be overcome and how engagement strategies can be improved. Practitioners are encouraged to delve deeper into these areas to enhance the effectiveness of parenting interventions.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Prevention of Filipino Youth Behavioral Health Disparities: Identifying Barriers and Facilitators to Participating in “Incredible Years,” an Evidence-Based Parenting Intervention, Los Angeles, California, 2012.
