Evaluation of a parenting program to reduce youth violence

GenPMTO - Adaptation and Feasibility Study

This study is testing a parenting program to see if it can help parents of kids aged 8-14 reduce the risk of youth violence.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 36 (estimated)
• Ages: 8 Years to 14 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: The Behavioural Insights Team (other)
• Locations: 3 sites (London and 2 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT06099262 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project evaluates the GenPMTO (Generation Parent Management Training - Oregon Model), a parenting program aimed at improving parenting practices and outcomes for young people aged 8-14. The program involves trained practitioners using active teaching methods such as group problem-solving and role-play to support caregivers in implementing positive parenting strategies. The evaluation is being conducted across three London boroughs, focusing on caregivers of children identified with risk factors for violence. The study aims to adapt the program for the UK context and assess its feasibility and effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are primary caregivers of children aged 8-14 who exhibit risk factors for involvement in violence or criminal behavior.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have children within the specified age range or who do not exhibit the identified risk factors may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could lead to improved parenting practices and reduced youth violence, benefiting both parents and children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar parenting programs, indicating potential for positive outcomes in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria - Caregivers are eligible to participate in the feasibility study (including receiving GenPMTO) if they:

* Have a child or young person (CYP) between the ages of 8-14.
* Are the primary caregiver (i.e. spend the most time with the CYP and are available to care for them).
* Live within one of the boroughs in which GenPMTO is being delivered (during the feasibility study).

And, if one of or more of the following is present:

* CYPs have engaged in criminal behaviour, such as breaking the law or "offending behaviour" - for both non-violent and violent crimes.
* CYPs have engaged in violent and challenging behaviour (including within the home, e.g. against parents and/or siblings).
* CYPs have been reported as bullying other individual(s) in or outside of school settings.
* CYPs have low attendance at school (\<50% within the last academic year).
* CYPs have been excluded from school within the last academic year.
* CYPs are engaged in substance abuse/misuse (e.g. drugs, alcohol)
* CYPs are at risk of involvement by gangs.
* CYPs are at risk of exploitation, or negative influence, by criminal peers.
* CYPs have a sibling(s) that has entered into the criminal justice system.

Exclusion Criteria - Caregivers will be excluded from the feasibility study it at least any of the following are present:

* Caregiver(s) have received a parenting programme in the last two months, or are currently receiving one.
* Caregiver(s) and CYP does not have working proficiency in English, such that participation in GenPMTO and research activities would be unfeasible.
* Family has plans to move out of the borough within the 10-14 week delivery timeline, and thus may not be available for full delivery of GenPMTO during the feasibility study phase.
* Severe developmental delay for caregiver or CYP which may prevent caregiver from attending GenPMTO delivery sessions, implementing GenPMTO parenting strategies, or participating in evaluation.
* Caregiver(s) and/or CYPs are actively homicidal, suicidal or psychotic.
* Problem sexual behaviour is the central behavioural concern for child/young person.
* Significant child protection concern (i.e. basic needs of children are not being met by caregivers.

Where this trial is running

London and 2 other locations

• London Borough of Barking and Dagenham — London, United Kingdom (RECRUITING)
• London Borough of Brent — London, United Kingdom (RECRUITING)
• London Borough of Tower Hamlets — London, United Kingdom (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Elizabeth Brailsford

Conditions: Violence, Emotional Adjustment, Parenting, Parent-Child Relations, young people, youth violence, parenting programme