Using Parent–Child Interaction Therapy to develop a pre-parent education module

The current study examined outcomes related to a pre-parent education module based on two sessions from the Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) treatment protocol. The study included 300 undergraduate non-parents aged 19 to 25 who were enrolled in psychology courses at a large state university. Student knowledge of positive parenting skills and demonstration of effective behavioral parenting skills were examined through a self-report measure and an analog behavior observation. Exposure to the pre-parent education module resulted in significant increases in scores on a PCIT content quiz and frequency of praise during the role-play behavior observation from pre- to post-test. The results of this study suggest that undergraduate non-parents are open, and able, to learn about parenting strategies during a classroom-based parent education module. These findings highlight the feasibility of teaching parenting skills as a preventive strategy during pre-parenthood.

Research highlights► Outcomes related to a pre-parent education module developed from the PCIT protocol. ► We examine changes in knowledge, and use, of behavioral parenting skills. ► Exposure to module results in increases in scores on a PCIT content quiz and praise. ► Results suggest undergraduate non-parents can learn about parenting strategies. ► Teaching parenting skills as a preventive strategy during pre-parenthood is feasible.