The Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10-14 (SFP 10-14) is a nationally recognized evidence-based curriculum that provides parent/caregiver, youth, and family education aimed at strengthening parenting skills, preventing teen substance misuse, and building family cohesion. The program is delivered in local communities in groups of 7-10 families. The curriculum is taught by trained facilitators over seven weekly sessions using narrated videos, guided discussions, and specific activities that portray typical youth and parent/caregiver interactions within a diverse family setting. SFP 10-14 has made a positive impact on families throughout Washington, in all 50 states, and in over 25 countries.
SFP 10-14 Evidence-Based Curriculum:
- helps parent/caregiver learn nurturing skills,
- teaches parent/caregiver how to guide and discipline their youth,
- provides youth with a positive future orientation and an increased appreciation for their parent/caregivers,
- and teaches youth skills for dealing with stress and peer pressure.
What is an evidence-based program?
SFP 10-14 meets the rigid criteria to be considered scientifically proven through randomized controlled studies and outcomes have been assessed using psychometrically strong measures. As part of a research study, SFP 10-14 demonstrated over time that youth who participated had better outcomes than those who did not. Intervention and educational programs such as SFP 10-14 help strengthen families and lead to lower risks of both teenage substance abuse and pregnancy, factors that are related to youth violence and generational poverty. SFP 10-14 is recognized by Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development meeting the highest standards of evidence through independent review by the nations top scientists.
Youth Risk Factors
- Aggressive or withdrawn behavior
- Negative influences from peers
- Poor academic performance
- Lack of positive life goals
- Poor relationship with parent/caregiver
Youth Protective Factors
- Negative peer pressure resistance skills
- Positive management of emotion
- Improved relationships with peers
- Empathy with parent/caregiver
Parent/Caregiver Risk Factors
- Demanding or rejecting behavior
- Poor child management
- Harsh and inappropriate discipline
- Poor communication of family rules
Parent/Caregiver Protective Factors
- Positive parent-child affect
- Supportive family involvement
- Age-appropriate and clearly identified expectations
- Appropriate parental monitoring
SFP 10-14 Curriculum Delivery
The seven weekly sessions are designed to be highly interactional. Parent/caregivers and youth meet in separate groups for the first hour and then together during the second hour to practice skills, play games, and complete family projects.
WSU Extension and SFP 10-14
The SFP 10-14 is a centerpiece of WSU Extension’s vision for improving the lives of families and young people in Washington. Statewide, parent/caregivers have experienced success with SFP 10-14 leading to the development of the WSU Extension Parenting Team, the expansion of Supporting Strong Families, and is featured in the Extension’s current strategic plan.
Extension’s faculty and staff include both youth and family development specialists and researchers who support the program is delivered with fidelity. WSU Extension’s role is multi-faceted which involves training, implementation, evaluation, and providing refined program materials.