A Comparison of Professional Views on Research-Supported Parenting Interventions in A Community-Based System of Care

ABSTRACT

Purpose

This qualitative study examined views of research-supported parenting interventions across three stakeholder groups that have critical roles in child welfare—case managers, clinicians, and judicial representatives in one rural community.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with members in each stakeholder group. Two analytic approaches were used. First, views on the selection of research-supported interventions, strengths and weaknesses, and professional collaboration in implementation were examined. Second, several factors in the literature impacting research-supported interventions were used to compare views.

Results

All stakeholder groups supported the use of research-supported therapies while agreeing that the overriding importance in selecting any therapy was to ensure the best “fit” with a client. Professional collaboration was considered essential in a variety of forms and combinations by all groups.

Discussion and Conclusion

The results highlight important considerations in selecting and implementing research-supported parent therapies. Recommendations to continue and expand this line of research are articulated.

KEYWORDS:

• Child welfare
• collaboration
• parent therapies
• qualitative research
• research-supported

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, Florida State University [Support for this research was provided by the Flor].