Evaluating child-related outcomes of teenage parenting programs
Clewell, B.; Brooks-Gunn, J.B.nasich, A.
Family relations 38(2): 201-209
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0197-6664 DOI: 10.2307/583676Document Number: 384232
This article describes child-focused interventions that are part of teen pregnancy programs. The programs have been evaluated, utilizing evaluations (experimental or quasi-experimental design) that include an assessment of child-related outcomes. For a true assessment of the effectiveness of parenting education programs, outcome measures must be utilized that assess the efficacy of the treatment on the child's behavioral, social, intellectual, or physical development. While some of the evaluative studies reviewed here have done this, others have ignored child effects altogether or focused on maternal outcomes exclusively. Those who design teen parenting programs may find it useful to turn to the developmental literature to measure child functioning more reliably and link program goals with specific outcomes.