UQ anger study seeks parent volunteers

UQ anger study seeks parent volunteers

The University of Queensland is conducting a treatment study for parents who have problems with anger when dealing with their children.

The study aims to help parents of children aged between two and seven years old learn ways to effectively manage their children's behaviour without getting angry or losing their temper.

Associate Professor Matt Sanders of the University's Parenting and Family Support Centre said the average person became angry approximately seven times a week.

"Getting angry at your kids more than seven times a week increases the risk of harming your relationship with your children; your children's health; your health; and your relationships with your partner and friends. Problems with controlling your anger can also place you at risk of losing control and hurting your child," he said.

Dr Sanders said people worried about getting angry or losing their temper too often with their children's behaviour were invited to join a free study about to commence at the UQ Parenting and Family Support Centre.

Parents who participate in this study will be required to attend either weekly individual sessions with a practitioner for approximately 14 weeks or a group parenting training and anger management program once a week for seven weeks. The small group sessions will run for two hours each week.

Parents will also be required to complete several questionnaires designed to gather information based on their parental experiences, and ask questions about their behaviour and their child's behaviour.

Parents will receive a free parenting booklet as part of the program.

People interested in participating in this important research project, can telephone the Parenting and Family Support Centre at 3365 7302.