Abstract

Parent behavioral training results in behavioral changes that are associated with the reduction of a child’s problematic behaviors. The purpose of the present study was to identify the most effective components of a parent behavioral training program on both, the observed parents’ behavior and their report on the reduction of their child’s problematic behavior. Participants were 84 Mexican parents of two to twelve years old children with behavioral problems. Parents attended a positive child raising program based in role playing that trained them to respond in a positive manner to their children’s behaviors with the ultimate goal of reducing problematic behaviors. The children’s behaviors were assessed using self-report questionnaires answered by the parents. After the behavioral training, a significant change in the parents’ behavior was observed. Parents also reported a significant reduction of their child’s problematic behavior. The most effective components of the intervention program were behavior correction, praise, giving clear instructions, rule establishment, problem solving, social interaction, and the reduction in punishment.