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Group-based versus individual parenting programs: A meta-analysis of effects on parents
Louise Mathijs1, Stijn Van Petegem1, G J Melendez-Torres2
1Research Center for Developmental, Family and Systems Psychology, Universite Libre de Bruxelles.
Summary
Group-based parenting programs effectively reduce parental depressive symptoms, while both group and individual formats improve child behavior management and reduce parenting stress. The best format depends on desired outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Child Development
- Family Studies
Background:
- Parenting programs aim to improve child behavior and parental well-being.
- Group-based and individual formats offer distinct advantages, including peer support and tailored approaches.
- The comparative effectiveness of these formats is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of group-based versus individual parenting program delivery formats.
- To determine which format best optimizes child behavior management, parenting stress, and parental depressive symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 121 group-based and 41 individual parenting programs was conducted.
- Studies were selected from a systematic review (Backhaus et al., 2023).
- Programs were based on social learning theory principles.
Main Results:
- Both group and individual formats improved child behavior management and reduced parenting stress.
- Only group-based programs showed significant improvement in parental depressive symptoms.
- Effectiveness varied depending on the specific outcome measured.
Conclusions:
- The optimal parenting program format depends on the targeted outcomes.
- Group-based programs may be more beneficial for addressing parental depressive symptoms.
- Clinicians should consider parents' goals when recommending a program format.
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