Parent Management Training

Posted byRatel Health
Evidence-based mental health content, reviewed by psychologists and psychiatrists
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)Autism Spectrum DisorderBipolar I DisorderObsessive-Compulsive DisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Parent Management Training

Evidence Status: Well-established evidence

Medically reviewed · Dr. Sarah Whitfield, PsyD · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A structured intervention that teaches parents specific behavior management strategies to address child and adolescent disruptive behavior.

What Is Parent Management Training?

Parent management training is a structured, evidence-based intervention that teaches parents specific strategies for managing child and adolescent disruptive behavior, based on the understanding that changes in parenting practices can significantly improve child behavior.

How It Works

This approach applies behavioral learning principles, teaching parents to consistently reinforce positive behavior and use effective, non-harsh strategies to reduce problem behavior, such as clear commands, consistent consequences, and positive attention. This description uses original explanatory language.

What Happens During Therapy?

Sessions, which may involve parents alone or with the child present, typically cover specific skills such as effective praise, structured routines, and consistent discipline strategies, with parents practicing these skills at home and reviewing progress in subsequent sessions.

Evidence and Effectiveness

Research strongly supports parent management training for reducing disruptive behavior in children and adolescents, including oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder, with substantial evidence across several specific program models.

Who May Benefit?

Parent management training may be considered for families of children or adolescents with significant behavioral difficulties, including oppositional or conduct-related concerns.

Limitations and Considerations

Parent management training requires active parental engagement and consistent application of strategies at home, which can be challenging depending on family circumstances.

Finding a Qualified Therapist

Parent management training is delivered by psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals trained in specific parent training curricula.

How Long Does Therapy Take?

Parent management training programs are often delivered over approximately 10 to 16 sessions, though length varies by specific program and family needs.

Therapy vs. Medication

Parent management training is a behavioral intervention; medication may be considered for co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, in consultation with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional.

What Conditions Is It Used For?

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

A childhood-onset condition involving a persistent pattern of angry or irritable mood, argumentative or defiant behavior, or vindictiveness toward authority figures.

Conduct Disorder

A childhood or adolescent condition involving a repetitive pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interfere with functioning.

Related Therapy Types

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

A structured therapy for young children with behavioral difficulties that coaches parents in real time to improve the parent-child relationship and manage behavior.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

A structured, evidence-based approach that applies learning principles to build helpful skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with functioning, widely used in autism spectrum disorder.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.
  • American Psychiatric Association. Practice Guidelines.
  • National Institute of Mental Health. Psychotherapies.