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Publication
Promoting socioemotional development in early childhood: Implementation and evaluation of the VIPP-SD parenting intervention in Portugal
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
The prevention of internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children is a critical scientific and public health priority. Research highlights maternal sensitivity—defined as a caregiver’s ability to perceive, interpret, and respond appropriately to their child’s cues—and consistent but non-coercive discipline as key factors in reducing these behavioral issues. The Video-feedback Intervention to Promote Positive Parenting and Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD) aims to enhance maternal sensitivity and promote non-coercive discipline strategies. Meta-analyses have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving parental sensitivity, limit-setting practices, and child attachment security, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged families. However, evidence on its impact on externalizing behaviors remains mixed, with some studies suggesting delayed or context-specific effects. This project aims to evaluate VIPP-SD’s impact on parental sensitivity, discipline, child behavioral problems, and parental mental health in Portugal. Additionally, it seeks to assess the intervention’s cost-effectiveness by analyzing health outcomes, resource utilization, and associated costs.
The program consists of a baseline visit, four intervention sessions, and optional booster sessions, focusing on themes such as sensitive responsiveness, positive reinforcement, and empathetic boundary-setting. 120 families from vulnerable populations in Portugal will be recruited and randomly assigned to the VIPP-SD intervention or the same number of contacts without feedback on parenting. Trained interveners will deliver the intervention. Pre- and posttest assessments include observed and self-reported parenting behaviors, parental mental health, quality of life, and resource use. Follow-up assessments include questionnaires on parent and child variables.
Discussion
The study aims to provide robust evidence to inform health policy decisions and prioritize cost-effective early interventions that improve developmental outcomes, reduce societal costs, and support family well-being.
Description
Keywords
VIPP-SD Parenting Intervention Socioemotional Development
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Veríssimo, M., Guedes, M., Fernandes, M., Fernandes, C., Santos, C., Diniz, E., Oliveira, P., Negrão, M., Sampaio, F., & Bakermans-Kranenburg, M. (2025). Promoting socioemotional development in early childhood: implementation and evaluation of the VIPP-SD parenting intervention in Portugal. BMC Psychology, 13(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-025-03431-3
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC