Lessons learned from implementing the parenting Program P in Bolivia to prevent family violence

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Development Studies

Background:

• Parenting programs are utilized for family violence prevention and promoting household gender equality.
• Understanding the mechanisms of change in these programs, particularly in the Global South, remains limited.
• An experimental evaluation of Program P in El Alto, Bolivia, indicated minimal impact on reducing violence and promoting gender equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively evaluate the parenting 'Program P' implemented in El Alto, Bolivia.
• To explore the processes and pathways to change within the program.
• To complement existing experimental findings and provide deeper insights into program effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• The study employed a qualitative approach, conducting 36 in-depth interviews and 6 focus groups.
• Participants included men and women who attended Program P, as well as program facilitators.
• Thematic analysis was used to organize findings around program successes and challenges.

Main Results:

• Key successes included participant motivation, engagement, and the value of supportive group processes.
• Challenges involved addressing deeply ingrained hegemonic gender and social norms.
• Participants learned and applied skills, which served as a platform for behavioral change.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative insights reveal critical factors for effective gender-transformative parenting programs.
• Addressing social norms and fostering skill application are crucial for behavioral change.
• Findings offer implications for designing and implementing more impactful parenting programs globally.