The 1-year efficacy of a parent-training in the universal prevention of child-behavior problems: Results from mothers and fathers

Theoretical background: The significance of universal prevention and the state of the art of prevention research is illustrated. It is the aim of the present study to investigate the efficacy of the Triple P parent group training as a universal prevention strategy from the perspective of mothers and fathers. Method: All city-funded preschools were recruited for participation. Families were based on their respective preschool either randomly assigned to a prevention program (parent training) or a control group. The long-term efficacy was analyzed with a multimethod and -modal assessment in 219 two-parent families. Results: From the mothers' perspective, significant improvement in parenting and significant reduction in child behavior problems occurred. Furthermore, their psychological distress reduced and their relationship satisfaction increased. From the fathers' perspective, parenting behavior improved significantly. Conclusions: The results support the efficacy of the Triple P parent training as a universal prevention strategy for child behavior problems. Possibilities for dissemination will be discussed.