# Parents’ experiences with the Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) intervention – a scoping review of qualitative studies

## TL;DR

This study summarizes parents' experiences with the Circle of Security Parenting program, highlighting its benefits and areas needing improvement.

## Contribution

The study provides a synthesis of qualitative findings on parents' experiences with COSP, identifying key themes and implications for its use.

## Key findings

- Parents reported increased self-understanding and security in their parenting role through COSP.
- COSP was seen to positively impact children and improve parent-child interactions.
- Parents suggested adaptations to better suit non-target groups and everyday use.

## Abstract

Research on the Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) program is limited.

The current study was performed to map and synthesize the existing qualitative literature on parents’ experiences of participating in the COSP to address gaps in the current knowledge base.

A scoping review was carried out. Sixteen qualitative studies with samples from well-baby clinics, community health care, child welfare services, specialist mental health care services for children, and specialist mental health care for adults were included in this review. The sample included 172 informants, mostly women.

Thematic content analysis found three main themes and eight sub-themes. Theme 1: Parents’ journey of self-reflection, self-development, learning and understanding of the parenting role. Sub-theme: (1a) COSP as a source of increased self-understanding and security in the parenting role, (1b) emotionally demanding processes for parents. Theme 2: COSP, a source of changes in the child and parent‒child relationship and interaction with others. Sub-theme: (2a) COSP assessed as having a positive impact on the child. (2b) COSP assessed as improving parent‒child interaction. (2c) COSP as a source of conflict resolution. Theme 3: COSP is assessed as positive, yet sometimes adaptations are needed. Sub-theme: (3a) Parents experience the COSP as useful for their everyday lives and recommend the program to other parents. (3b) Parents have comments and suggestions regarding the implementation of the COSP. (3c) The COSP is recommended by parents outside the target group, but adaptations are required.

The review shows that parents find the COSP intervention to have valuable potential as a health-promoting intervention, but the program should be used with careful consideration to non-target groups.