Efficacy of an online positive parenting program: A randomized controlled trial
Family Relations / Family Relations Interdisciplinary Journal of Applied Family Studies
Published online on June 08, 2026
Abstract
["Family Relations, EarlyView. ", "\nAbstract\n\nObjective\nThis randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of the Quality Parenting Initiative (QPI), a 6‐week culturally adapted online positive parenting program for Chinese parents of preschoolers.\n\n\nBackground\nAcademic‐oriented parenting in China may limit children's opportunities for play‐based learning and socioemotional development. While positive parenting programs can enhance parental competencies, culturally adapted programs and evidence from China remain scarce.\n\n\nMethod\nA total of 159 parents (93.71% mothers; mean age = 35.33 years) were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 88) or a waitlist control group (n = 71). Parental self‐efficacy, responsive behaviors, and children's socioemotional outcomes were assessed at baseline and postintervention. Linear mixed‐effects models were used to estimate intervention effects.\n\n\nResults\nCompared with the control group, QPI participants showed significant improvements in parental self‐efficacy and responsive behaviors. No significant effects were found on children's socio‐emotional outcomes.\n\n\nConclusion\nQPI improved parental self‐efficacy and responsive behaviors within 6 weeks. However, child‐level changes may require extended exposure or follow‐up to become detectable.\n\n\nImplications\nThis study provides evidence from China on the effectiveness of a culturally adapted online positive parenting intervention. Future research should include more diverse samples and adopt more rigorous designs to evaluate long‐term effects.\n\n"]