Early childhood parenting programs and community peacebuilding behaviors: A case study from postconflict Liberia.

Abstract

Despite the connection between early childhood development (ECD) and later behavioral outcomes, peacebuilding frameworks have only recently begun to explore pathways through which ECD programs promote peace in community contexts. Recent literature theorizes that ECD interventions may spill over from family to community interactions, which is particularly important in areas affected by conflict. The current case study explored qualitative outcomes associated with peacebuilding behaviors across a randomized controlled trial of Parents Make the Difference, a parenting program in postconflict Liberia. Parents or primary caregivers of children aged 3-5 years (N = 813) attended 10 weekly sessions, with 75 completing follow-up interviews. Participants described engaging in prosocial behaviors in the context of their community following program completion, such as decreased personal conflict and empowerment to mediate conflict between peers. Findings highlight improved community relationships in promoting peace among adults and modeling these behaviors for children during a critical period of development. Public Significance StatementThe current case study provides evidence that supports the previously theorized connection between early childhood development and community peacebuilding efforts. The study illustrates how a parenting program disseminated in Liberia reduced interpersonal conflict and promoted prosocial behaviors among community members.