Early intervention in pediatrics offices for emerging disruptive behavior in toddlers

Background: This study provides preliminary data about a parenting intervention for families of preschoolers with early attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/oppositional defiant disorder symptoms carried out in two diverse primary care pediatric offices.

Method: Parents of toddlers completed behavioral screening questionnaires at well-child visits. Eligible parents participated in a 10-week parenting education group using the Incredible Years program. Mothers completed several outcome measures at three time points: before participating in the group, immediately after the group ended, and 6 months thereafter. These measures assessed changes in parenting practices, parenting stress, and child symptoms. Parent and provider satisfaction also were assessed.

Results: Mothers reported improvements in parenting skills and a decrease in stress. They also reported a decrease in child aggression and an increase in compliance. Mothers and providers reported high levels of satisfaction.

Conclusions: Results support the benefits and feasibility of providing parenting education groups to parents of toddlers in pediatric practice settings.