Abstract This evaluation research study seeks to learn how

effectively Adlerian-based parenting programs are in improving parenting abilities which subsequently result in children being returned to the parents.

The study will use quantitative methods in measuring the rate of reunification. In an attempt to control for extraneous variables, substance abusers will be excluded from the availability sample.

Research Question Is “Active Parenting Now” effective in assisting non-

substance abusing parents in regaining custody of their children?

Background Information

Active Parenting Publishers, Inc., was founded in 1980 by Dr. Michael H. Popkin, a former child and family therapist and Coordinator of Child and Family Services for Northside Community Mental Health Centers in Atlanta, Georgia.

APP delivers quality education programs for parents, children and teachers to schools, hospitals, social services organizations, churches and the corporate market.

Background Information

The Active Parenting model is heavily based upon the theories of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs.

Utilizes video-based educational modules for delivery, integrated with classroom instruction and group discussion.

Alfred Adler

Adler developed what is considered the first "common sense" therapy, the basic premise is that human beings are always "becoming," that we're always moving toward the future, and our concerns are geared toward our subjective goals rather than an objective past.

Rudolf Dreikurs

Dreikurs  expanded on Adlerian theory by developing a system of individual psychology into a practical method for understanding the purpose of “reprehensible behavior” in children and for instead simulating cooperative behavior without punishment or reward.

Emphasis on discipline.

Sample Parents who have completed a full course “Active Parenting

Now” over the span of the past three years (based on data from the Children’s Advocacy Center in Fort Payne, Alabama).

Series1 Series1

Methods

Phone Survey

Mail Survey

DHR/CAC Records

Measure How many parents completing the classes were able to

regain custody of children?

Hypothesis

“Active Parenting Now” is an effective tool in assisting parent to improve parenting skills thereby enabling them to regain custody of children.

Null hypothesis: Successful completion of “Active Parenting Now” is not an accurate predictor of whether or not parents regain custody of their children.

Findings From Other Studies

Research literature regarding Adlerian-based parenting programs, such as Active Parenting Now, have produced results showing an improvement in child self-esteem and a reduction in deviant behavior.

However, no studies have been conducted to measure the effectiveness of such parenting programs in assisting non-drug and alcohol abusing parents in regaining custody of their children.

References

Burnett, P. C. (1988, March). Evaluation of Adlerian parenting programs. Individual Psychology, 44(1), 63-76.

Mooney, S. (1995). Parent training: A review of Adlerian, parent effectiveness training, and behavioral research. The Family Journal, 3(3), 218-230. doi:10.1177/1066480795033005

Mullis, F. (1999). Active parenting: An evaluation of two Adlerian parent education programs. The Journal of Individual Psychology, 55(2), 225-232.

Patterson, G. R., Chamberlain, P., & Reid, J. B. (1982). A comparative evaluation of a parent-training program. Behavioral Therapy, 638-650.

Prinz, J., Arkin, S., & Gelkopf, M. (2008). Hadarim: A description and evaluation of a school-based Adlerian parenting program in Israel. The Journal of Individual Psychology, 64(1), 37-54.