A grounded theory of parents experiences of Incredible Years Parent Management Training within Whirinaki, a child and adolescent mental health service : a thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University

Abstract

This thesis presents an exploration of parent's experiences of Incredible Years Parent Management Training within Whirinaki, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Counties Manukau District Health Board. Nine participants were interviewed and selected based on their attendance at over 50% of the sessions of Incredible Years Parent Management Training groups offered over the course of one year. They had children with symptomology of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and/or Oppositional Defiant Disorder. The sample included both mothers and fathers representing various family compositions. Using grounded theory methodology, a theory was developed which has created an understanding of the processes involved as parents seek to attribute meaning to their child's behaviour. It is anticipated that the findings which emerged from this study will enhance treatment outcomes for parents and create innovation in exploring how systemic strategies could be applied within a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service framework, to incorporate more efficient service delivery and most importantly further meet the needs of parents and families.