Which parents dropout from an evidence-based parenting programme (Triple-P) at CAMHS? Comparison of programme-completing and dropout parents

Abstract

Evidence-based parenting programmes are beneficial for children’s behavioural and emotional problems as well as parenting practices. Along with effectiveness, attendance affects the programme outcome and identification of risks associated with dropout may aid in development of special policy to increase engagement. In this study, we aimed to compare sociodemographics, parental attitudes, child behavioural and emotional problems of programme-completing and dropout parents from Level-4 Triple-P parenting programme applied at Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). We also aimed to determine the attrition rate. In addition, we inquired whether there was a change in parenting styles and child behaviour and emotional problems before and after Level-4 Triple-P for the programme-completing parents at CAMHS. Results displayed that 52% ( n = 58) of the parents who were significantly less educated, used hostile rejecting attitudes, and reported more hyperactive/inattentive behaviour in their children compared to the parents who competed the programme ( p = 0.022, p = 0.016, p = 0.027, respectively) discontinued the programme. Parents who were able to complete the programme ( n = 54) reported a reduction in over-parenting and improvements in children’s conduct problems along with overall stress levels before and after Triple-P ( p = 0.009, p = 0.040, p = 0.023). Parents at risk of discontinuing parenting programmes may require special policy to be engaged since these programmes may offer significant benefits for parenting practices and, in turn, children’s well-being.