Training GPs in parent consultation skills. An evaluation of training for the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program.

BACKGROUND: The Triple P-Positive Parenting Program is a behavioural family intervention program that aims to prevent severe behavioral, emotional and developmental problems in children by enhancing the knowledge, skills, and confidence of parents.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effect of training general practitioners in the use of the primary care version of the TPP on their consultation skills, satisfaction and confidence in conducting consultations with parents.

STUDY DESIGN: Participants were assigned to an experimental condition that involved a brief behaviorally oriented parent consultation skills training program or to a wait-list comparison group. Thirty-two GPs participated in the training. Fifteen participants attended the first workshop (intervention group) and 17 attended the second (wait-list comparison group).

RESULTS: GPs who participated in the training reported greater satisfaction with the outcomes of their parent consultations and showed significantly greater use of targeted parent consultation skills than GPs in the wait-list comparison group. Observations of GP consultation skills during simulated patient interviews with parents showed there was a significant overall improvement in their interactional skills during parent consultations. There was a high level of satisfaction with the quality of training received by the GPs.

CONCLUSION: This was a brief, cost effective program that had significant effects on participating GPs' skills, confidence and satisfaction with child consultations involving behavioral problems. Implications for public health approaches to the prevention of child psychopathology are discussed.