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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Early intervention in pediatrics offices for emerging disruptive behavior in toddlers
Jannette McMenamy1, R Christopher Sheldrick, Ellen C Perrin
1Department of Behavioral Sciences, Fitchburg State College, 160 Pearl St, Fitchburg, MA 01420, USA. jmcmenamy@fsc.edu
Insights
This study found that a 10-week parenting program improved parenting skills and reduced stress for parents of preschoolers with early attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/oppositional defiant disorder symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric primary care
- Developmental psychology
- Behavioral health
Background:
- Early childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms present challenges for families.
- Parenting interventions in primary care settings are crucial for early intervention.
- This study evaluated a specific parenting program for at-risk preschoolers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and benefits of a parenting intervention for toddlers with early ADHD/ODD symptoms.
- To evaluate changes in parenting practices, stress, and child behavior.
- To gauge parent and provider satisfaction with the intervention.
Main Methods:
- A 10-week parenting education group (Incredible Years program) was implemented in pediatric offices.
- Parents of toddlers completed behavioral screening questionnaires.
- Mothers reported on parenting skills, stress, and child symptoms at three time points.
Main Results:
- Mothers reported enhanced parenting skills and reduced stress levels.
- Significant decreases in child aggression and increases in child compliance were observed.
- High satisfaction was reported by both parents and healthcare providers.
Conclusions:
- Parenting education groups are beneficial and feasible in pediatric primary care settings.
- The Incredible Years program shows promise for supporting families with young children exhibiting early behavioral challenges.
- Early intervention through accessible parenting programs can positively impact child behavior and family well-being.
Background:
This study provides preliminary data about a parenting intervention for families of preschoolers with early attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/oppositional defiant disorder symptoms carried out in two diverse primary care pediatric offices.
Method:
Parents of toddlers completed behavioral screening questionnaires at well-child visits. Eligible parents participated in a 10-week parenting education group using the Incredible Years program. Mothers completed several outcome measures at three time points: before participating in the group, immediately after the group ended, and 6 months thereafter. These measures assessed changes in parenting practices, parenting stress, and child symptoms. Parent and provider satisfaction also were assessed.
Results:
Mothers reported improvements in parenting skills and a decrease in stress. They also reported a decrease in child aggression and an increase in compliance. Mothers and providers reported high levels of satisfaction.
Conclusions:
Results support the benefits and feasibility of providing parenting education groups to parents of toddlers in pediatric practice settings.
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