Effectiveness of parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) among Chinese families

Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of Parent—Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) among Chinese parents and children in Hong Kong with significant behavior problems. Method: The participants (intervention group, 48; comparison group, 62) completed questionnaires on child behavior problems and parenting stress before and after intervention. Results: Univariate analysis of covariance, with preintervention scores as covariates, showed the intervention group participants reported fewer child behavior problems and parenting stress postintervention than the comparison group participants. The observational data demonstrated a decrease in inappropriate child-management strategies and an increase in positive parenting practices following intervention. The intervention group participants generally maintained the changes 3 to 6 months after program completion. Conclusions: Cultural issues related to PCIT and culturally appropriate intervention strategies were discussed. Copyright © 2009 Sage Publications.