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Promoting First Relationships: Randomized Trial of a Relationship-Based Intervention for Toddlers in Child Welfare

NCJ Number
241717
Journal
Child Maltreatment Volume: 17 Issue: 4 Dated: November 2012 Pages: 271-286
Author(s)
Susan J. Spieker; Monica L. Oxford; Jean F. Kelly; Elizabeth M. Nelson; Charles B. Fleming
Date Published
November 2012
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This study conducted a community-based, randomized control trial with intent-to-treat analyses of Promoting First Relationships (PFR) to improve parenting and toddler outcomes for toddlers in State dependency.
Abstract
The authors conducted a community-based, randomized control trial with intent-to-treat analyses of Promoting First Relationships (PFR) to improve parenting and toddler outcomes for toddlers in State dependency. Toddlers (10-24 months; N = 210) with a recent placement disruption were randomized to 10-week PFR or a comparison condition. Community agency providers were trained to use PFR in the intervention for caregivers. From baseline to postintervention, observational ratings of caregiver sensitivity improved more in the PFR condition than in the comparison condition, with an effect size for the difference in adjusted means postintervention of d = .41. Caregiver understanding of toddlers' social emotional needs and caregiver reports of child competence also differed by intervention condition postintervention (d = .36 and d = .42) with caregivers in the PFR condition reporting more understanding of toddlers and child competence. Models of PFR effects on within-individual change were significant for caregiver sensitivity and understanding of toddlers. At the 6-month follow-up, only 61 percent of original sample dyads were still intact and there were no significant differences on caregiver or child outcomes. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.