Informing the "Real World": Examples of How This Study Has Influenced Programs for Families

Results from your participation in the Family Transitions Project have led to the development of many exciting programs that help to enhance the quality of family relationships. The following two programs are great examples of how your participation is actively improving the lives of families across the country.

Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth ages 10-14

The Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth ages 10-14 (SFP 10-14) was developed using Family Transitions Project communication and problem solving data. SFP is a system of videos that families view in order to help reduce youth substance abuse and other negative adolescent behaviors. The sessions include the viewing of videotapes and active participation of family members in learning activities that improve parenting skills, build life skills for youth, and strengthen family bonds. The seven week program has shown amazing results, including increased resistance to peer pressure, a 32% to 77% relative reduction in conduct problems at a 4-year follow-up (depending on the behavior), and an increased ability among parents to set appropriate limits while showing affection and supporting their children.

“Families Stand Together”

Drs. Rand and Kathi Conger of the Family Transitions Project consulted with Sesame Street on a series called “Families Stand Together”, which was created to help families cope with the economic recession. The characters from Sesame Street are shown in a series of videos which assist parents in explaining a loss of money and lifestyle change in a more positive way to their children. These videos have been included in outreach kits that also contain information related to parenting and offer ways to teach children what they can do to help during tough times. Outreach kits include a DVD that encourages families to talk about their feelings and stresses during times of economic insecurity, a printed story which offers support and strategies for families during economic transitions, and a parent guide which provides strategies on how to meet challenges as a family, ideas about how to explain difficult situations to young children, and tips on planning for the short- and long-term. These kits were distributed to communities particularly affected by the recession throughout the US.