Caregiver and adolescent experiences of mental health support provided by a hybrid parenting programme in Mpumalanga, South Africa

Abstract

Introduction Adolescence is a critical period for identity formation, often influenced by socio- economic and environmental factors. Evidence suggests that risk factors impacting mental health include violence, poverty, substance abuse, and poor parental mental health. Parenting programmes that incorporate mental health and psychosocial support tools to enhance adolescent well-being are becoming increasingly recognised. Supportive environments, particularly within the home, are vital for fostering positive adolescent mental health. This study examined the experiences of parents and adolescents who participated in the hybrid version of the Sinovuyo Teens Parenting Programme (herein, Programme), which was designed to promote positive parenting among parents and primary caregivers. Methods This qualitative study was conducted in Mpumalanga province, involving twelve parents and six adolescent girls who completed the hybrid Programme in 2022. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents and adolescents individually in settings where each participant felt at ease during the interview. Recorded data was translated and transcribed, with MAXQDA employed for coding. Inductive and deductive coding were applied to align with the study objectives. Results The overall format of WhatsApp and in-person meetings worked for both parents and adolescents. Participants valued formats of the programme differently, with parents noting the flexibility of the programme in participating through WhatsApp, especially given competing priorities and the ability to catch up in their available time, while adolescents reported more problems with WhatsApp. Both parents and adolescents v acknowledged the benefits of the in-person sessions, where they socialised, learned from their peers, and participated in joint learning to improve parent-child relationships. Parents and adolescents self-reported positive changes, including improved communication, spending quality time together, better household budgeting, and reduced harsh discipline within the home. These enhanced adolescent emotional security, supported consistent behavioural expectations, and alleviated family stress, leading to improved mental health support. Conclusion This study highlights the experiences of adolescent girls regarding their exposure to the parenting programme, focusing on the changes they observed in their parents. Additionally, adolescents and parents spoke of the increased ability to communicate openly. These findings demonstrate the potential of hybrid parenting interventions in providing parents and caregivers with skills to enable a conducive environment within the home for adolescents to discuss issues affecting their daily lives with their parents. However, further research and engagement is needed for child and adolescent participation in programming to strengthen adolescent mental health support in the home.