An April 2009 report from Child Trends Research Briefs summarizes an analysis of the data from the Every Child Every Promise Study conducted by America's Promise Alliance (Moore, Whitney & Kinukawa). The study focused on lower income families, however the findings were similar for all families regardless of income. The study examined four types of family strengths using data on adolescents, ages 12-17, from families with incomes below $50,000:
1. Close and caring parenting
2. Parental monitoring, supervision and awareness
3. Parental involvement
4. Positive parental role modeling
Findings related to performance in school, social competence and participation in risky behaviors are summarized in the report. Why is this important? The study supports CYFAR (Children, Youth and Families At-Risk) program strategies that promote family involvement in youth programs and foster parenting skills related to responsible monitoring of children's behavior.
For more information, go to:
http://www.childtrends.org/Files//Child_Trends-2009_04_16_RB_FamilyStrengths.pdf