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Proximal outcomes of Connecting, an evidence-based, family-focused prevention program for caregivers of adolescents in foster care

Author

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  • Haggerty, Kevin P.
  • Barkan, Susan E.
  • Skinner, Martie L.
  • Hanson, Koren

Abstract

This study experimentally tested proximal outcomes of Connecting, a low-cost, self-directed, family-based substance-use prevention program for foster families. Families (n = 220) fostering youth age 11 to 15 years were recruited and randomly assigned into the self-administered program with telephone support (n = 110) or a treatment as usual, control condition (n = 110). Program materials included a workbook with family activities and DVDs with video clips. Survey data were collected from youth and their caregivers at baseline and 4 months later. Results indicate 60% were ‘very satisfied’ with Connecting, and 85% would recommend Connecting to other caregivers. Analyses revealed foster youth in the program (n = 93) were significantly more likely than controls (n = 104) to report improved problem-solving skills (Cohen's d = 0.13, p = .02), involvement in making family rules (OR = 2.6, p = .02), and caregiver recognition for positive behavior (OR = 3.8, p = .03) at posttest. Improvement was observed in youth report of intervention-specific communications (B = 0.15, p = 0.07) and improved refusal skills (OR = 2.09, p = .06). No significant effects were found on bonding communication, inconsistent discipline, family conflict, monitoring, and antisocial norms about substance use and violence, nor were there significant effects from any caregiver reports on similar measures. This evidence suggests that a self-administered family-focused preventive intervention can positively influence known risk and protective factors for youth in foster care.

Suggested Citation

  • Haggerty, Kevin P. & Barkan, Susan E. & Skinner, Martie L. & Hanson, Koren, 2021. "Proximal outcomes of Connecting, an evidence-based, family-focused prevention program for caregivers of adolescents in foster care," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 126(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:126:y:2021:i:c:s0190740921000888
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2021.106009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Barkan, Susan E. & Salazar, Amy M. & Estep, Kara & Mattos, Leah M. & Eichenlaub, Caroline & Haggerty, Kevin P., 2014. "Adapting an evidence-based parenting program for child welfare involved teens and their caregivers," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 41(C), pages 53-61.
    2. Storer, Heather L. & Barkan, Susan E. & Stenhouse, Linnea L. & Eichenlaub, Caroline & Mallillin, Anastasia & Haggerty, Kevin P., 2014. "In search of connection: The foster youth and caregiver relationship," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 42(C), pages 110-117.
    3. Cooley, Morgan E. & Petren, Raymond E., 2011. "Foster parent perceptions of competency: Implications for foster parent training," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 33(10), pages 1968-1974, October.
    4. Puddy, Richard W. & Jackson, Yo, 2003. "The Development of Parenting Skills in Foster Parent Training," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 25(12), pages 987-1013, December.
    5. Festinger, Trudy & Baker, Amy J.L., 2013. "The quality of evaluations of foster parent training: An empirical review," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 35(12), pages 2147-2153.
    6. Dorsey, Shannon & Farmer, Elizabeth M.Z. & Barth, Richard P. & Greene, Kaylin M. & Reid, John & Landsverk, John, 2008. "Current status and evidence base of training for foster and treatment foster parents," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 30(12), pages 1403-1416, December.
    7. Day, Angelique & Willis, Tamarie & Vanderwill, Lori & Resko, Stella & Patterson, Debra & Henneman, Kris & Cohick, Sue, 2018. "Key factors and characteristics of successful resource parents who care for older youth: A systematic review of research," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 84(C), pages 152-158.
    8. Whenan, Rachel & Oxlad, Melissa & Lushington, Kurt, 2009. "Factors associated with foster carer well-being, satisfaction and intention to continue providing out-of-home care," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 31(7), pages 752-760, July.
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    1. Haggerty, Kevin P. & Barkan, Susan E. & Caouette, Justin D. & Skinner, Martie L. & Hanson, Koren G., 2023. "Family, mental health, and placement outcomes of a low-cost preventive intervention for youth in foster care," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 150(C).

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