Preliminary Outcomes of a Hybrid-Digital Parenting Intervention in Routine Services in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose: This paper examined pre-post changes in child maltreatment and associated outcomes among caregivers of children ages 2–6 years who participated in a hybrid-digital parenting intervention delivered by civil society organizations (CSOs) in Malaysia. Methods: Data were collected by five CSOs between January and April 2024 in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. The intervention included a parenting support chatbot, WhatsApp groups, and two in-person sessions. Results: Of 133 caregivers, only 36 completed both baseline and post-intervention assessments, resulting in a 73% attrition rate. No significant changes were found in child maltreatment (p = .698), though improvements in positive parenting (β= 1.75 [0.19, 3.32]) and reductions in child externalizing behaviors (IRR = 0.70 [0.53, 0.93]) were observed. Discussion: This is the first study to explore a hybrid-digital parenting intervention in routine services in Malaysia. It shows promise for improving parenting outcomes but also highlights challenges in data collection that should be addressed.