The Role of Training Variables in Effective Dissemination of Evidence-Based Parenting Interventions

Abstract

From a public health perspective, mental health in parents and children can be promoted through population-based dissemination of parenting and family support interventions. However, it is critical that service providers who are acquiring evidence-based parenting interventions complete the training regimen to optimize dissemination and impact. This article examines training completion and its relationship to individual service provider characteristics, barriers to program use and subsequent implementation of an evidence-based program, the Triple P — Positive Parenting Program. In this study, 83.7% of the service providers completed the two-part training. Individual-level variables did not predict training completion. Service providers from diverse backgrounds were equally likely to complete training, were highly satisfied with the training provided and reported relatively few barriers to implementation. The majority of those who completed training (67.6%) went on to deliver the program with families in the community, whereas only 37.8% of those who did not complete training used the program subsequently. Implications are discussed for fidelity in delivery, cost-effectiveness in dissemination efforts, and population-wide health promotion.

Keywords:

• parenting
• dissemination
• family health promotion
• professional training