the program’s tools after they completed the intervention.
Researchers concluded that foster children in intervention, versus the waitlist group (which served as an untreated comparison group that eventually receives treatment), reported stronger family management and less conflict, improved conversation between foster teens and their caregivers related to media use and monitoring, improved participation in establishing family rules, and reduced antisocial behavior.
Caregivers in the waitlist group reported a 17 percent increase in foster teens’ positive involvements after the completing the program.
Skinner hopes the program will continue to prove effective during its post-pilot stages — which are now underway — because it’s inexpensive and easy to implement.
“We think [Connecting] is effective because these caregivers are so invested in their relationships with these kids that it’s the right combination of relationship and skill building that they need and want,” she said.
