5158.0: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - Table 1

Abstract #30729

Cultural adaptation of a family strengthening intervention: Focus on African American families

Phyllis MacDonald du Mont, PhD, RN, College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, 1200 Volunteer Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37996, 865 482-9403, pdumont@utk.edu

Cultural adaptation of existing prevention programs may: a) increase participant engagement; b) ensure that core ideas are communicated to participants; c) improve the fit between program values and the values of the partnering cultural group; and d) enhance program effectiveness. In addition, the adaptation process requires mutual cultural exploration that can transform attitudes and perceptions. This exchange of ideas can create positive experiences which serve as an antidote to prevailing cultural expectations of mistrust and misunderstanding between community members and program providers. As part of CSAP- funded grant activities, we began a series of dialogs with African American parents to discover what elements were perceived as vital to the success of a parenting program. Members of the partnering community believed that to improve participation programs should a) involve both parents and youth; b) be short in duration; c) incorporate fun activities; d) provide meals and/or other incentives; and e) be convenient (time, location, and access). The Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth Ages 10 to 14 was chosen because it matched these criteria, however cultural adaptation to fit local needs was identified as a key project activity. In our pilot, a continuous cycle of ongoing evaluation and responsive adjustments was used to adapt the program to the local community. The evaluative methods included comparing program language, activities, and values with known preferences and values of groups similar to our partnering cultural group, observing for evidence of participant engagement and consultation with team members.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session the participant (learner) will be able to:

  • Describe three benefits associated with cultural adaptation of an existing intervention.
  • Identify the components of real time process evaluation of cultural fit.
  • Compare and contrast cultural competence and cultural humility.

    • Keywords: Culture, Family/Consumer Perspective

    Presenting author's disclosure statement:
    Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: This was a CSAP funded program.
    I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
    Relationship: CSAP funding (grant)

    The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA