Family Resilience: A Home Visiting Program for Families With School-Age Children Experiencing Trauma (Poster 30)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 9:50 a.m.
  In Poster Session: Looking at Factors Affecting Stress and Resilience

Abstract

Home visiting programs, despite proven effectiveness, rarely serve families once children enter kindergarten. This study is a qualitative portion of a larger evaluation of the Family Resilience Program (FRP), an innovative effort to better serve families facing trauma, regardless of children’s ages. In-depth interviews of seven families revealed that families joined and stayed in FRP, primarily to become a better parent and person. Families also reported creating a special bond with home visitors. Lastly, families responded that FRP is effective and customizable for all families. The results suggest that FRP could be a valuable addition to existing home visiting models. Accounts from families were triangulated by the home visitors, thus increasing trustworthiness. Recommendations for implementation and evaluation will be discussed.

Authors

• Tomoko Wakabayashi, Oakland University

• Canequia Moulder, Oakland University