Description
Abstract: Families Count is a multi-state Christian restoration ministry program designed to help parents maintain permanency with their children. Families receive no-cost parenting classes at local churches that enhance family relationship skills. Additionally, the churches acquire skills in family ministry to support at-risk families. This study focused on a site in Charleston, South Carolina. The Retrospective Protective Factors Survey indicated improvements in family functioning and resilience, as well as in social, nurturing, and child development relationship factors. This study is significant in advancing the limited availability of verified familial reunification support programs, particularly those with a Christian emphasis.
Authors Biography
Amanda Harmon, Ph.D., is currently associate professor of Psychology at Charleston Southern University. She completed her undergraduate degree in human development and family studies, Masters in biobehavioral health at Penn State University, and her Ph.D. in experimental psychology/development at University of Louisville.
Athon Arant is currently a Master of Social Work student at the University of Kentucky. He completed his undergraduate degree in psychology at Arizona State University and has served nine years in the armed forces.
Jonathan Denton, Ph.D., is associate professor of Christian Studies/Student Ministry at Charleston Southern University. He completed his under- graduate degree in civil engineering at Clemson University, and his Ph.D. and M.Div. at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He authored Disciplemaking With Guys (D6 Family Ministry, 2024) and was the general editor of Ancient Text, Modern World (Randall House Academic, 2023).
