A Systematic Review of Parenting Programs for Southeast Asian Families

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Developmental Psychology
• Family Studies

Background:

• Evidence-based parenting interventions effectively prevent substance use and mental health issues.
• Effectiveness of these interventions for Southeast Asian (SEA) families in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify available parenting programs for SEA families.
• To synthesize the evidence on the efficacy of these programs.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across five databases.
• Synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) guidelines were followed.
• 2,270 initial records were screened, yielding 39 eligible intervention studies.

Main Results:

• 39 studies included 29 in-region and 10 diaspora interventions for SEA families.
• Programs were either adapted, newly developed, or previously created for SEA-heritage families.
• Preliminary evidence supports effectiveness in enhancing positive parenting, reducing negative parenting, and improving child behavior.

Conclusions:

• Parenting programs show potential for promoting child and family well-being in SEA populations.
• Highlights the need for rigorous research with active controls and clear documentation of adaptation processes.
• Suggests significant public health impact potential for new and adapted programs.