Effects of a cognitive adjustment program for Thai parents

Nantaga Sawasdipanich1, Wichit Srisuphan, Jarassri Yenbut

  • 1Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand. s_nantaga@yahoo.com

Insights

A cognitive adjustment program improved parental attitudes toward child rearing among Thai parents. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in reducing the potential for child physical abuse (CPA).

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Parenting Interventions

Background:

  • Child physical abuse (CPA) is a significant public health concern with increasing prevalence.
  • Parental attitudes are crucial factors influencing child-rearing practices and the risk of abuse.
  • Cognitive adjustment programs offer a potential avenue for modifying parental behaviors and attitudes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of a cognitive adjustment program on parental attitudes towards child rearing.
  • To assess the program's effectiveness in reducing the potential for child physical abuse (CPA) among Thai parents.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 116 Thai parents of children aged 1-6 years.
  • Participants were assigned to either an intervention group (cognitive adjustment program) or a control group (usual services).
  • Parental attitudes and potential for CPA were assessed post-intervention.

Main Results:

  • The intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in parental attitudes toward child rearing compared to the control group.
  • No significant reduction in the potential for child physical abuse (CPA) was observed in the intervention group.
  • The program showed effectiveness in positively influencing parental attitudes but not directly in reducing abuse potential.

Conclusions:

  • The cognitive adjustment program effectively altered parental attitudes, suggesting a positive impact on child-rearing perspectives.
  • Program modifications, such as increased intensity, may be necessary to enhance its efficacy in reducing CPA potential.
  • Further research is recommended to explore program modifications and their impact on preventing child physical abuse.

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