Service Providers' Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators in Early Implementation of a Psychoeducational Intervention for Immigrant Parents in Social Services

Abstract

Despite extensive evidence supporting the efficacy of parenting interventions in promoting family well-being, research on their equitable implementation remains limited. This study aims to identify barriers and facilitators influencing the early implementation of "Being a Parent in Finland", a novel psychoeducational intervention for foreign-born parents integrated into public social services. Data were collected through nine thematic interviews with six key service providers across three implementation phases (2021-2023), complemented by an analysis of 125 pages of project documentation. Utilizing Proctor's Implementation Outcomes Framework-acceptability, appropriateness, adoption, cost and feasibility-a hybrid thematic analysis revealed the interdependence of implementation outcomes. Notably, changes in a single factor, such as eligibility criteria or intervention design, simultaneously influenced multiple outcomes, including acceptability, appropriateness, and adoption. Iterative adaptations, particularly the integration of the intervention into universal services, improved both accessibility and legitimacy. The findings underscore the importance of aligning organizational goals with the specific needs of the target population to ensure interventions are both accessible and responsive to community needs. The results highlight the importance of aligning service goals with family needs to achieve effective, equitable outcomes and emphasize the necessity for ongoing adaptation to ensure long-term sustainability.