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Using Qualitative Methods to Develop Contextually Relevant Measures and Preventive Interventions: An Illustration

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American Journal of Community Psychology

Abstract

Qualitative methods were used to develop a contextually relevant quantitative measure of parenting stress and inform the design of family-focused interventions aimed at preventing adolescent mental and behavioral health problems. The study focused on the experiences of low-income one- and two-parent families representing three ethnic groups (Mexican, African, and European Americans) living in low-income neighborhoods in a large Southwestern city. This report describes the place of this study in a broader program of prevention research, the qualitative methods and data analysis procedures employed, and how the results were used to develop a new measure of parenting stress and inform future program design. The report also includes reflective comments on the methods used and lessons gained.

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Dumka, L.E., Gonzales, N.A., Wood, J.L. et al. Using Qualitative Methods to Develop Contextually Relevant Measures and Preventive Interventions: An Illustration. Am J Community Psychol 26, 605–637 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022145022830

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022145022830

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