Group parent training : experimental and behavioral analysis of two methods for training child management skills

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Authors
Sottolano, Donn Charles
Advisor
Wenck, L. Stanley (Lewis Stanley)
Issue Date
1987
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (D. Ed.)
Department
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Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess the differences between two; methods for training parents in child management skills. Group I, the educational training group, consisted of seven parents, while Group II, the competency-based training group, bad five participants. Two dependent measures, time-out and instruction giving, were assessed during simulations with a confederate. Probes were also taken during analogue situations between the parent and child. Follow-up probes were conducted at six- and twelve-weeks for the EFTG, and at 8-weeks for the CBTG.Data was subjected to an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to determine statistical differences between groups. A multiple baseline across skill domains was also used to assess clinical changes between groups and within individuals.Findings Parents trained in the CBTG performed significantly better, in both time-out and instruction giving skill domains, than did parents trained within the educational format. All five CBTG parents achieved a mastery level of 90% or higher. Parents trained through the traditional educational methods were unable to achieve mastery in either, skill domain. Subsequent to the introduction of competency training, all but one of the EFTG parents were able to reach mastery. The parent who was unable to reach mastery, was unable to do so in either skill domain.All parents were satisfied with service delivery regardless of treatment received. Parents also reported similar changes in their child's behavior throughout the course of the training program.Conclusions Competency-based training methods were far superior to the more traditional educational approach in shaping parents behavior (i.e., time-out and instruction giving skills). Parent perceptions of changes in their own behavior are a poor indicator of measured change.Parent's reported satisfaction is a poor prognosticator for termination of treatment services.