The Effects of Positive Behavior Support Parent-Training Programs on Parent-Child Relationships in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families

A pre-postassessment, single-subject, pilot study was implemented, testing the hypothesis that positive behavior support (PBS) would improve family quality-of-life outcomes by reducing parental stress and challenging behaviors of preschool children who are culturally and linguistically diverse and reside in urban, disadvantaged communities. Six participants attended parent-training workshops designed to empower them to use PBS child behavior management strategies and enhance their own mental health outcomes via a functional parent-child relationship. Parental stress levels were measured and anecdotal reports of child outcomes obtained. Findings corroborate outcomes from preceding research supporting PBS as a socially valid, culturally responsive intervention effective at producing results acceptable to participants. Future research and suggestions are provided for closing the gap between research and practice.