Exploring the Feasibility and Outcomes of Concurrent Parent and Child Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Abstract
Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) have shown to be effective in improving child and parent outcomes, including parental stress (Burgdorf et al., 2019; Friedmutter, 2016), child behaviour problems, and child executive functioning (Cheang et al., 2019; Donald et al., 2019; Dunning et al., 2019). The field of mindfulness has evolved to include parents and children together in programs, called parallel or concurrent parent and child MBIs. Children who have experienced adversity may be at a greater need for MBIs, as MBIs target stress and emotion regulation, areas where these children may need greater support (Bethell et al., 2016; Brenmer, 2003). As a newly emerging field, little is known about the feasibility of combining parent and child MBIs programs together.
The first study in this dissertation was a systematic review of the feasibility of concurrent parent and child MBIs using Bowen et al.’s (2009) model of feasibility as a guiding framework. The review found that most studies were conducted with children with neurodevelopmental disorders, with less studies exploring programs with youth with internalizing challenges, physical challenges, adversity, and general populations. Results further showed that concurrent MBIs appear to be acceptable and practical for most participants. Challenges with regular practice were noted across several studies. Limited information regarding implementation fidelity and facilitator responses were found.
The second study explored the preliminary outcomes associated with a concurrent parent and child MBI, the M3© program, on a sample of 97 parent-child dyads. Parent pre-to-post program reports on of child executive functioning, child behaviour problems, and parental stress were explored for statistical and clinical significance. Results showed statistically significant positive differences from pre-to-post program across all variables, except for one parent stress scale. These findings were not moderated by parent-reported levels of child adversity, although low rates of adverse experiences were reported. Clinically significant results were also found, where some participants moved in clinically meaningful, positive directions from pre-to-post program. Implications for current and future MBI researchers and clinicians, as well as limitations and next steps for this field of research are discussed.