Evaluation of dropout clients and of perceived usefulness of a parent education program

This study investigated parents' perceptions and demographic variables in relation to dropout rates and the perceived usefulness of parent education groups. Changes in parents' perceptions of themselves and their families following the groups were also assessed. Thirty-one parents volunteered to participate in the nine-session groups, which included both behavior modification and communication training components. Thirteen parents failed to complete the groups. Parents who dropped out of the groups initially reported they were happier within their family, happier with their child management skills, and more patient than the parents who completed the groups. Parents who finished treatment, but who felt the groups were relatively less useful, were found to have a lower income, older children, and children who had more difficulty understanding their parents.