Innovation in Parenting Programs

Innovation has characterized the whole field of behavioral family intervention since its inception. This chapter reflects on the innovative developments that have occurred over the past four decades as the field of evidence-based parenting support has evolved in response to cumulating evidence relating to effectiveness. Despite these advances, it is argued that new approaches are needed to improve outcomes in many areas of unmet need and to address contemporary issues for new generations of parents. The challenge is to deliver evidence-based parenting support on a global scale and thereby substantially enhance the well-being of all children, families, and communities. The organizational contexts and research environments that are likely to nurture a thriving culture of program innovation while training the next generation of parenting researchers and program developers are discussed.