How do we know we make a difference for families?

We have every family complete the Adult Adolescent Parenting Inventory (AAPI) and client satisfaction surveys (in addition to tools specific to the intervention models we provide). The AAPI show us we make a significant difference in parent's attitudes and beliefs, increasing age appropriate expectations and empathy, decreasing reliance on physical punishment and reducing parent-child role reversal. These changes in attitudes correlate to a lower risk of child abuse and more nurturing parenting. In addition, since 2000 when we started our client satisfaction surveys, over 90% of families served say the Family Support Program was a positive learning experience for them and that they would recommend the program to a friend or family member. We also consistently receive evaluations that our presentations are organized, beneficial, and give both parents and providers things they will be able to implement.

The Family Support Program now uses evidence based models. What is an evidence based model?

A model that has been scientifically tested and found to make a measurable difference. This testing often involves a comparison group getting a different intervention, randomly assigning people to one intervention or the other, and measuring with a reliable and valid tool or using outcome measures to determine which was more effective.

What is Parent Child Interaction Therapy?

Parent Child Interaction Therapy is an intervention for families with children age 2-12. The intervention begins with strengthening the relationship between parent and child using coached play during the sessions and five minutes of special play time each day to practice the PRIDE skills (praise, reflection, ignoring, describing, and enthusiasm). After the parent and child are experiencing positive interactions, the model teaches parents how to give effective commands, stay calm while administering consequences, and be consistent. Parents practice everything with the support of the Family Support Specialist during coached play before trying it on their own. The Family Support Specialist has time outside the coached play to address other specific needs including anger management, self care, and finding ongoing support.

What kinds of outcomes does the research show?

• Children of physically abusive parents who participated in PCIT instead of a standard parenting group had less than half the likelihood (19% vs. 49%) of being re-reported for child abuse.
• The changes in children's behavior and parent's attitudes were still maintained three to six years

How can you learn more about Parent-Child Interaction Therapy?

Go to http://pcit.phhp.ufl.edu/.