Exploring the Science of Connection Behind Promoting First Relationships

Promoting First Relationships ® (PFR: Kelly et al., 2008) is a brief 10-week home visiting intervention designed for caregivers with infants or young children. PFR is a program that focuses on the quality of the caregiver-child relationship as a source of protection from toxic stress. Providers who learn to use PFR are trained to use strength-based strategies including positive feedback and reflective observation. Together these strategies help caregivers develop a deeper understanding of their child’s behavior which in turn increases their sensitivity to their child’s social and emotional needs. PFR uses video feedback to facilitate reflective observation and discussion. PFR has been evaluated in five randomized clinical trials: two trials in the child welfare system in Washington State; two trials within American Indian tribes; and one trial in a perinatal mental health setting. In this presentation, we will first describe the underlying conceptual model that leverages positive relationships as a source of resilience and then describe the PFR model of intervention. We will also show some videotaped examples of PFR in practice and conclude with a brief overview of the evidence base. There will be time for questions and answers upon the conclusion of the presentation.