Implementing attachment and biobehavioral catch-up in Norway: experiences from CWS parents, clinicians and leaders

Abstract

There is a pressing need in the Nordic countries for evidence-based programmes for young children who have experienced early adversity. One such programme, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC) was implemented in seven Norwegian child welfare services (CWS). The aim of this study was to interview families, CWS workers and their leaders to explore their experiences in implementing ABC and to make recommendations for future use. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 parents, 11 parent coaches and eight CWS leaders. Data were analysed using the framework method. The findings showed that ABC’s core elements such as in-vivo commenting and video feedback, were considered important for bringing about change. The intervention’s strengths-based approach helped reduce parents’ resistance towards coaches and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. There were diverging perspectives regarding the duration of the intervention, though most agreed on the need to make adaptations to suit the needs of individual families. Coaches viewed ABC as a welcoming addition to their service, due to the lack of interventions for infants in the CWS, although an expanded age limit would enable the recruitment of more families. Recommendations for future implementation include addressing recruitment and how to address issues outside the scope of ABC sessions.