Planning a temperament-based parenting program for inner-city families

Topic: The design of a temperament-based parenting program for inner-city families. Problem: Selective intervention parenting programs are needed for children who are at high risk for developing behavioral problems. Planning should incorporate cultural considerations to ensure the program meets needs. Methods: A pilot study to assess psychometrics of instruments, obtain preliminary date, test feasibility, and verify appropriateness of the intervention. Reports of child temperament, behavior problems, and maternal distress were obtained from a sample of '244 inner-city mothers of school-age children. Findings: The three instruments showed adequate reliability with this sample. Attendance rate was 92% for the 18 mothers who participated in the parenting intervention. Focus groups supported the content of the program. A pilot study can assist nurses to plan an intervention that responds appropriately to the specific strengths and needs of the community.