Overview
The primary objective of this study is to test the effects of an evidence-based prevention intervention (CPP) adapted for foster and kinship caregivers of young children (FC; foster care) on caregiver competence and child behavior problems for children in foster care compared with an active comparator group that receives standard supports through the child welfare and healthcare systems (i.e., usual care).
Description
The purpose of the study is to evaluate the impact of an evidence-based parenting program, The Chicago Parent Program (CPP) adapted for foster and kinship caregivers of young children (CPP-FC). A parallel, two-arm, randomized controlled trial of 300 caregiver-youth dyads will be conducted, comparing the impact of CPP-FC versus a usual care control on caregivers and foster youth. Quantitative and qualitative data about CPP-FC will be collected from foster and kinship caregivers and through observations of caregivers and youth. The findings from this study will demonstrate whether CPP-FC is effective in reducing behavior problems in young foster children and whether that contributes to reduced caregiver stress, increased caregiver confidence, increased positive parenting behavior, and longer lengths of time that children remain with foster and kinship caregivers, preventing unnecessary moves from one caregiver to another and improving child wellbeing.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Must be a licensed foster caregiver or kinship caregiver to a foster child between the ages of 2 and less than 9 years of age
- Must be a licensed foster caregiver or kinship caregiver to a foster child in Ohio and in the custody of Hamilton County Job and Family Services, Butler County Children Services, or Montgomery County Children Services
- Must be in good standing with the foster care agency
- Must be English-speaking
Exclusion Criteria:
- Not having a foster child between the ages of 2 and less than 9 years
- The foster child not being in the custody of Ohio counties: Hamilton County Job and Family Services, Butler County Children Services, or Montgomery County Children Services
- The foster child was placed in the home more than 45 days prior to enrollment
- The foster child being moved out of the placement prior to the start of the intervention
- The foster child having been previously enrolled with another caregiver
- The caregiver having been previously enrolled with another child
- The caregiver unable to commit to completing all study activities
- The foster child is not enrolled in the study