Qualitative evaluation of Australian Caregiver's experiences of parent–child interaction therapy delivered in a community‐based clinic setting

Abstract

Background

Parent–child interaction therapy (PCIT) is a short‐term, evidence‐based parent training program for parents of children aged 2–7-years with disruptive behaviour disorders (DBDs). The evidence‐base for the effectiveness of PCIT is extensive but to date most studies have been quantitative in nature and conducted in university research clinics within the United States. Thus, understanding of the effectiveness and acceptability of PCIT in community‐based settings in other countries, including Australia, is limited.

Objective

This study used a qualitative methodology to explore Australian caregiver's perceptions of a standard PCIT program delivered at a community‐based PCIT clinic.

Method

Participants were nine mothers and one father who completed the PCIT program at the clinic for treatment of child DBD.

Results

Thematic analysis yielded four major themes, namely “Parenting challenges before PCIT”; “Positive treatment outcomes” (sub‐themes: improved child behaviour, increased parental confidence, increased insight into the child needs, and improved relationships with partner); “Program strengths” (sub‐themes: child‐directed interaction, parent‐directed interaction, home practice, therapeutic relationship); and “Challenges experienced.”

Conclusions

These findings highlight the benefits of the PCIT program for families who are struggling with DBD in early childhood, and point to the potential positive impacts of disseminating PCIT within clinical settings more widely across Australia.

Key words:

• disruptive behaviour disorders
• parent–child relationship
• parenting
• parent training program
• PCIT
• treatment outcome