1. Objectifs

Intentions :
This article aims to evaluate the FAMILLE+ program which is a program for families with parental depression. «[The] purpose [of the program] is to prevent the development of mental health conditions in children and to promote family resilience.» (p. 2)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
The evaluation was made by the families who participated in the FAMILLE+ program. The program targeted «4 to 8 families that have parents with major depressive disorder and their 7 to 11 year old children. The intervention was developed by Piché and colleagues in Quebec, Canada, in collaboration with Beardslee. […] The seven-week FAMILLE+ program has six weekly meetings (simultaneous separate parent and child group meetings) and one individual family meeting […].» (p. 2)

Type de traitement des données :
Réflexion critique

3. Résumé

«Evaluation of the FAMILLE+ program shows the content and activities were appreciated by parents and children. Four of the activities were particularly enjoyed by participants: [e]motions and needs posters and cards, [t]he pirate storybook, [b]ody percussion, and [d]rawing activities. After participating in the program, children reported a reduction in anxiety and oppositional symptoms, as well as increased knowledge about mental health. Parents’ perceptions of their level of knowledge about depression, its impact on the family, resilience factors, and coping strategies also improved significantly. Both parents and children reported improved family communication, as well as positive impacts on their relationships with one another and their general wellbeing. [In sum, the] FAMILLE+ program may be useful for families with a parent with a major depressive disorder. The program promotes knowledge about mental health, better family communication, general well-being and child mental health. Learning tools and activities tailored for children help with understanding and discussing sensitive concepts and normalize family experiences. The project adds to evidence of the importance of child-centered research by: [p]rioritizing the adaptation of the content and modalities of interventions to the abilities and needs of children themselves; [i]ncluding children’s active participation; and [d]irectly contributing to the development of services corresponding to child expectations.» (p. 3)