CD-52662j
Investigating the Impact of the SafeCare Program on Parenting Behaviours in Child Welfare-Involved Families.
Gallitto, Elena.
Romano, Elisa.
Whitaker, Daniel.
Journal Article
Copyright
Published: February 2021
Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal
Vol. 38, No. 1
, p. 115–126
DOI: 10.1007/s10560-020-00672-6
Springer International Publishing AG
233 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
Tel: 212-460-1500
800-SPRINGER
Fax: 212-460-1575
service-ny@springer.com
Available From:http://www.springer.com/
Child neglect is a long-standing concern in child welfare because of its short- and long-term negative consequences. SafeCare is an evidence-based parenting program designed to reduce the risk of child neglect and prevent its future occurrence. In this study, we examined the effects of the SafeCare program on several parenting outcomes in a sample of 76 child welfare-involved caregivers from Ontario (Canada). Caregivers’ self-reported ratings of neglectful parenting practices, physical punishment, psychological aggression, and positive disciplinary practices were obtained prior to and shortly after program completion, as well as at 3-month post-intervention. Multi-level growth curve modelling results indicated statistically significant improvements in caregiver parenting behaviour following program completion. Findings indicated a significant decrease in caregivers’ self-reported neglectful parenting from pre- to post-intervention and from post-intervention to 3-month follow-up. Caregivers also reported a significant decrease in the use of physical punishment and a significant increase in positive disciplinary practices. These findings highlight some of the benefits of the SafeCare program, particularly as they pertain to simultaneously reducing and increasing certain parenting practices that help promote children’s safety and well-being. (Author abstract)
Keywords:
CHILD NEGLECT; EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE; PARENTING SKILLS; PARENT EDUCATION; PREVENTION; PROGRAM EVALUATIONS; ONTARIO; CANADA