Peer-led Support Groups for Parents Following Child Removal: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation Study.

Abstract

The evidence base for parent support groups in child welfare systems is limited but growing. Evaluation of such programs requires flexible and context-specific designs that capture both outcomes and mechanisms of change. This exploratory mixed-methods evaluation examined a peer-led support group program for parents who experienced child removal in a large Florida county to better understand how these programs operate and benefit parents working toward reunification. A total of 22 parents participated in weekly sessions facilitated by peer specialists with prior child welfare involvement. Quantitative assessments measured changes in psychosocial functioning and engagement in child welfare services, while semi-structured interviews (n = 8) explored participant perceptions of group processes and benefits. Significant decreases were observed in depression, trauma, and loneliness, alongside increases in perceived emotional support. Thematic analysis identified four interrelated themes that informed an empirically grounded conceptual framework describing the functions and benefits of support groups.This evaluation study demonstrates how mixed-methods approaches can yield actionable evidence from small scale community-based interventions and offers insight into the mechanisms that may inform future implementation and evaluation of peer-led models.