Connect^© is based on extensive research findings confirming the importance of parent-youth relationships as a protective factor in healthy teen development, particularly in relation to aggressive, violent and antisocial behaviour. It also draws on evidence showing the effectiveness of attachment focused interventions for children with problem behaviour. Connect^© is a 10-week manualized principle-based program for parents and alternate caregivers of aggressive, antisocial and delinquent teens that integrates research on adolescent-parent attachment, adolescent development and effective parenting practices. The program focuses on the enhancement of the building blocks of secure attachment shown to affect child outcomes: parental reflective function, sensitivity (Fonagy & Target, 1996), and adaptive dyadic affect regulation (Bowlby, 1973). The enhancement of competence in each of these domains supports parents to ‘reframe’ their adolescent’s behaviour and needs; modulate their emotional response to problem behaviour; and mindfully use parenting strategies to support their relationship with their adolescent while clearly setting limits and expectations. Each session begins with a discussionof an attachment principle that helps parents understand attachment issues related to challenging interactions with their adolescent.  

Connect^© was developed in collaboration with the Maples Adolescent Treatment Center.

Since 2006 more than 70 mental health professionals (including nurses, social workers, psychologists etc.) from 11 communities across British Columbia have been trained and lead Connect groups with excellent outcomes.