Evaluation of CPI-based co-parenting education programs in Hong Kong: Implications for social work

Abstract

This article reports an evaluation study of co-parenting education services in a pilot project on co-parenting support services in Hong Kong. Based on the Cooperative Parenting Institute (CPI) model, there are two levels of education program: Level 1 is an information-based program delivered through talks or lecture format; and Level 2 is participatory, interactive workshops. The study results would provide preliminary support to the effectiveness of the CPI-based education programs in reducing inter-parental conflicts with additional effectiveness on the reduction of putting children in the middle for parents participating in the Level 2 program. In response to the findings, it is recommended to match the participants’ level of conflicts with the appropriate level of program. Parents with high conflict need more intensive program. Consequently, a range of mutual support and booster sessions is recommended to maintain the parents’ commitment to co-parenting after the education. The CPI-based model is recommended to be the reference or protocol for training the social workers of related services. Moreover, cross-disciplinary training may equip supporting professions such as judges, lawyers, and mediators with a common framework to facilitate appropriate court order or advice on the appropriate level of the education program.