Family Empowerment (FAME): A feasibility trial of preventive multifamily groups for asylum seeker families in the Netherlands

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Abstract

This study evaluated the feasibility of Family Empowerment (FAME), a preventive multifamily program for asylum seeker families in the Netherlands. FAME aims to reinforce the parent-child relationship, family functioning, and social support. We used an uncontrolled pre-test-post-test design, embedded in a mixed-methods approach. FAME was offered to 46 asylum seeker families, mostly originating from Eritrea, Armenia, or Syria. Twenty-seven parents gave consent to participate in this study. Program integrity and evaluations of participating parents and trainers were assessed. Family functioning and parental symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured pre- and post-FAME. Six participants completed all assessments. Most participants valued gathering with multiple families. Although FAME might coincide with decreases in anxiety and depression, the program had a limited impact on family functioning. Possibly, the aims of FAME did not align with some families’ current needs. Lessons learned and recommendations to further improve interventions for refugee families are discussed.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

How do family interventions impact functioning of newcomer household dynamics?

One strong source of evidence and several smaller moderate and suggestive studies show that interventions on intergenerational relationships can help decrease negative mental health symptoms and increase positive parenting practices. Multiple studies reported significant improvements in the overall mental health of both child and caregiver participants. Caregivers reported high levels of satisfaction with several different […]

About this study

AGE: Multiple Age Groups

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Free

GENDER: All

HOST COUNTRY: Netherlands

INTERVENTION DURATION: 8 weeks

POPULATION: Asylees

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

TYPE OF STUDY: Suggestive evidence

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2021

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