Parent Training Programmes: Predictors of Attendance and Engagement

Childrens behavioural and conduct problems have escalated over the past several decades. A decline in parenting as a means of stabilizing childrens behavioural and emotional development amplifies this crisis. Parent Training Programmes instill useful child management skills where behavioural problems exist, enhancing parenting skills and developing prosocial attitudes in children. However, low attendance severely inhibits their capacity to provide wider-ranging service to families and society. This study identifies predictors of parental programme engagement. Programme design must consider family issues to motivate better parental interest and attendance. The importance of prescreening candidates prior to programme commencement and providing adjunctive services for parents likely to drop out are emphasized.