Consumer Informed Development and Evaluation of a Brief Online Parenting Program

The need for better access to evidence-based parenting interventions has been widely recognized. Rather than a ‘one size fits all‘ approach, a system of evidence-based support is needed that acknowledges the different needs and preferences of parents. This includes complementing intensive interventions with prevention and early intervention programs for families with mild to moderate problems. Web-based approaches have the potential to increase program reach, and have much to offer in terms of flexibility and ease of access.

Aims: To mirror the varying intensity of face-to-face programs in the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program system, a Level 3 Triple P online intervention has been developed to address targeted parenting challenges. This presentation discusses the consumer perspective approach that informed the development and subsequent trialing of this brief, low intensity intervention.

Method: An Australia-wide cross-sectional survey of 459 parents investigated parent’s use of and attitudes toward online parenting support and provided consumer input regarding preferences for program features and content areas. The resulting intervention is a non-linear, video enriched online program that incorporates interactive exercises and personalized feedback. Optional components also include downloadable worksheets, summaries and podcasts.

Results: We will present preliminary results from a multi-informant randomized controlled trial investigating the program efficacy with 200 Australian families with a child between 2-9 years with early onset conduct problems. Measures of parenting practices, family functioning, and child behaviour are obtained from mothers and fathers at baseline, 8 weeks post-intervention, and 9-month follow-up. Data on parent and child outcomes at post-intervention, program usage and client satisfaction will be discussed.

Discussion: This study will further our understanding of the value of internet-based interventions as part of a comprehensive population-level strategy and will inform future intervention development.