Is It Time for “Time-In”?: A Pilot Test of the Child-Rearing Technique

Abstract

Time-out, a mainstay of non-punitive discipline for over 60 years, has been criticized for isolating and distancing children from others. An alternative technique, one promoted by advocates of positive parenting practices, is labeled “time-in”. This procedure is intended to help the child connect to the parent, communicate their feelings, and learn how to self-regulate. Although the technique has been advocated in the positive parenting literature since at least the 1990s, there are few empirical studies evaluating it. This pilot mixed-models study was designed as an initial test to determine whether mothers, following a brief training, would use the procedure over a two-week period, and how they would view it. Based on the daily reports as well as post-intervention interview of a small sample of mothers, the technique was evaluated as easy to use and effective. This study provides initial information about mothers’ use of the technique and sets the stage for a comprehensive set of studies to rigorously test and evaluate the technique.

Enhancing attachment-based aspects of PCIT for young children with a history of maltreatment

“…Specifically, due to the nature of miscuing, reinforcement strategies are likely less effective as the desired behavior (e.g., asking for help) may have a low base rate because the child may not view the parent as a resource. Secondly, behavioral miscues may mask underlying emotionalregulation needs, as such parental attempts to co-regulate the underlying emotion may offer an opportunity to build skills in contrast to withholding attention (Holden et al, 2022). Third, parents of maltreated children may require additional support to take charge when challenging behaviors arise, which is emphasized in COS-P.…”