Brotman and colleagues report on the long-term
follow-up of two randomised controlled trials of parenting
interventions. Weight and obesity were not an initial
focus of the studies, so the authors used video archives
and a validated rating system to account for missing
baseline and early follow-up weight data. Children
(N=186) aged 3–5 years considered to be at high risk for
behaviour problems (poor, racial/ethnic minority, preexisting
or family history of behaviour problems) were
assigned to either the intervention group (weekly parenting
groups for 6 months) or the control group. The
studies used different curricula but with similar objectives
for enhancing parent effectiveness: improved
parent–child interactions, positive reinforcement, social/
behavioural competence and non-physical consequences
for misbehaviour. Nutrition, activity and weight were
not addressed. Follow-up assessments occurred on
average 3–5 years after the intervention