Outcome Evaluation of Parents Anonymous, United States, 2003-2004

Abstract

'Parents Anonymous' is a self-help group aimed at strengthening families and reducing child maltreatment outcomes. This study assessed whether parent's participation in the program was associated with child maltreatment outcomes and with their change in risk and protective factors. The study contains both qualitative and quantitative data.For the quantitative segment, group facilitators completed a survey at the beginning of the study. Through these surveys facilitators provided information regarding their level of education, how they heard about their positions, whether they were paid workers or volunteers, and more. Following the completion of facilitator surveys, 206 parents new to the 'Parents Anonymous' program were interviewed. The first interview took place 1 month into the program and the third 6 months later. Parents were asked about their demographics, their living situations, parenting style, and stressors in their lives. In the qualitative segment 36 parents from two states participating in the Spanish-language 'Parents Anonymous' groups were assessed with semi-structured in-person and over the phone interviews. The interviews were conducted once at the beginning of the program, 1 month into the program, and again at 6 months. Additional qualitative data was collected through group observations and focus groups. (Author Abstract).