Utilization of parenting groups and consultation services as parenting support services by Japanese mothers of 18 month old children

Aim: To clarify the factors related to the utilization of parenting groups and consultation services by mothers with children aged 18 months. Methods: This was a cross‐sectional study using a self‐report questionnaire survey at health examinations in five health centers of an urban city in Tokyo, Japan, from July to September 2003. The final study population was comprised of the 371 mothers who provided information on both demographics and the utilization of services. Results: Of these 371 mothers, 166 participated in parenting groups since the birth of their 18 month old child. Logistic regression analyses indicated the following factors related to such participation: past experience in the use of services provided by the local government, trust in the specific group, and worries about their children. Participation in the parenting groups was not related to child‐rearing anxiety or mental health status. The participants indicated that the groups provided friends and child‐rearing information and alleviated stress. Worries about children and past experience in the use of public services would enhance the utilization of services. Conclusion: It is essential for service‐providers to offer services specific to the situation or desires of mothers. Mothers might need both consultation services and support groups to reinforce the mother–child relationship, for social support, and to freely discuss worries with both professionals and peers.