Implementation of an Intensive, Home-Based Program for Parents With Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

This article describes retrospective findings from a parenting program developed in collaboration with a local Department of Social Services for adults with intellectual disabilities to increase parenting skills. Program intervention consisted of home-based services offered three times a week over the course of four to six months, focusing on a variety of topics including child development, planning/problem solving, and childcare. Post-intervention outcomes are reported for approximately 50 families. Significant increases were found in the percentages of eight of 10 observable parenting skills and in the quality of the home environment. Additional factors of interest noted were characteristics regarding parents with intellectual disabilities. Findings support consideration of wider applications of targeted, home-based services for parents with intellectual disabilities.

KEYWORDS:

• child maltreatment
• child protection
• policy issues
• family preservation

Notes

^aRefers to Moderately Low/Low scores.

^aClinically significant scores are at or above the cutoff score of 90.

^bTen participants were excluded due to defensive response findings at intake and/or discharge.

^cThree participants were excluded due to defensive response findings at follow-up.

*p < .05;

**p < .01;

***p < .001.