UMH (0627) 613 - Risk and Protective Factors: Parental Capacity to Parent

Credits: 3.00

Students will learn factors that present risks to the parent-child attachment relationship and therefore child developmental capacities; factors are identified that relate to parenting capacity and objectively understanding and assessing those capacities. Both risk and protective factors related to parents’ and childrens’psychological and physical safety and well-being are examined.

Free Note: Required for students in IMH-DP program.

Develop core knowledge in the theoretical and research foundations of risk and protective factors in infancy and early childhood understood in an integrative, multisystem dynamic context.

Identify and define the factors consistent with sensitive responsive parenting that promote optimal development

Gain knowledge of the differential characteristics, etiology and trajectory of adult mental health disorders and their impact on parenting capacity

Through case presentation and analysis gain core skills in assessing parental capacity in terms of both risk and protective factors

Consider assessment findings through a multi-cultural, reflective lens and the broader societal influences

Identify the role of policies in the creation and continuation of risks factors/stressors that impact parental capacity to parent as well as those that act as protective factors

Explain the effect of current policies on the nature, impact and resource availability and outcomes related to parenting capacity

Articulate the role of existing systems and services in addressing risk factors and supporting protective factors.

Communicate/report findings to parents, agencies and the legal system in accordance with the law and in objective, family supportive manner

Translate assessment data into treatment plans and strategies that support safety emotional well-being and protective factors of child and family