Efficacy of Lithuanian Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) on Parenting Style and Perception of Child Behavior

The short- and long-term efficacy of the Adlerian parent education program Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP), which is the group-based parenting class model, was the focus of the current study in Lithuania. In the quasi-experimental research study, the outcome measures included parenting style, child behavior as perceived by parents, and knowledge related to parenting. In 2011–2012, 44 parenting groups were organized, which resulted in 348 program and 299 comparison group participants at posttest. In 3- to 4-month period, the follow-up assessment was completed by 38.8% of parents. Specifically, the findings indicated that the STEP program was efficacious for increasing maternal and paternal knowledge on parenting, decreasing maternal authoritarian and permissive parenting styles and parental negative perceptions of the target child’s behavior. The changes listed were found to be stable as reflected in the follow-up. The researchers believe that the current study with the sufficient empirical rigor expands the generalizability of the STEP program outcomes on mothers and fathers in North America, Lithuania as well as Europe. Furthermore, the results have finally provided the Lithuanian therapists, parent educators, and parents with an evidence-based parenting program as recommended by the Council of Europe.