Process evaluation of the implementation of a parenting programme for Somali-born parents living in Sweden

Abstract Background: Forced migration has been shown to have a negative impact on family dynamics, parenting and the parent-child relationship. Parental support programmes aim to strengthen family functioning and the parent-child relationship and to promote the mental health of children and parents. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how parenting support programmes can be implemented for newly arrived immigrant parents. This process evaluation, therefore, describes the implementation of a successful parenting programme for immigrant parents from Somalia and identifies key components in the implementation process.Method: This process evaluation considered context, implementation and mechanism of impact, in accordance with the Medical Research Councils guidance. Data were collected through focus group discussions, a questionnaire, attendance lists, field and reflection notes, and observations of the sessions. The data were then analysed using content analysis and descriptive statistics. Results: The findings showed that of the 60 parents who were invited to the parenting programme, 58 participated in the sessions. The study showed that involving key individuals in the early stage of the implementation facilitated reaching the Somali-born parents in the parenting programme. To retain the participants in the programme, parents were offered free transportation. The programme was implemented and delivered as intended. A majority of the parents were satisfied with the programme, and they reported increased knowledge about children’s rights and the support they might seek from social services. Conclusions: This study illustrates how a parenting support programme can be implemented for Somali-born parents and provides guidance on how to engage and attract immigrant parents to participate in parenting support programmes.