Group Triple P - A randomized controlled trial with low-income mothers

Background: Parenting is a challenging endeavor, particularly for low-income families, who are often exposed to multiple stressors known to jeopardize children's development. Research indicates that evidence-based parenting interventions mitigate the adverse effects of growing up in low-income families. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the efficacy of Group Triple P - Positive Parenting Program in a sample of Portuguese low-income families assisted by social welfare services. Methods/Design: A randomized control trial to evaluate the effects of the Group Triple P program was implemented in a community setting. Low-income families were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: Group Triple P intervention or Care-As-Usual intervention. Outcome measures included child behavior problems, parental practices, parental sense of competence, parental adjustment, parental stress levels, and family social support network. Data were collected at baseline (before the intervention), immediately after the intervention (3-months after baseline), 6-, and 12-months after the intervention. Results: After the intervention, Group Triple P participants reported less children behavior problems, improvements in parenting practices, and in parental sense of competence, as well as an increase in family social support network. These effects remained stable six- and 12-months after the intervention. Discussion: Group Triple P was found to be an effective intervention when delivered in a community setting to low-income families, demonstrating enduring positive effects in all outcomes.