Evidence for Group-Based Foster Parent Training Programs in Reducing Externalizing Child Behaviors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT

The current study undertook a narrative and meta-analytic review of the literature to examine the effectiveness of group-based in-service foster parent training programs in reducing externalizing child behaviors. All studies reported a significant decrease in at least one measure of child behavior problems for treatment-group participants. The programs appear to be effective across ethnically and nationally diverse samples and produce similar results for older and younger children, as well as boys and girls. Overall the evidence suggests that group-based foster parent programs are an effective method for reducing problem behaviors among children in out of home care.

KEYWORDS:

• Evidence-based practices
• foster care
• relative/kinship care
• Parent Training

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mathew C. Uretsky

Mathew C. Uretsky is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Portland State University. His research examines the risk and protective factors that affect the academic and behavioral development of children and youth, with a focus on family and school dynamics.

Jill A. Hoffman

Jill A. Hoffman is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Portland State University. Her research examines the systems (e.g., early childhood education, healthcare, social services) designed to support the well-being of young children and their families.