RIVM has calculated the societal costs and benefits of a group‑based programme for parents. This programme is intended for parents whose children (aged 2–12 years) are at increased risk of developing a behavioural disorder. The study shows that there is substantial evidence that fewer children develop such a disorder as a result of the programme. In the long term, this helps prevent mental health problems in adults. In addition, the government saves a net amount of about EUR 1.6 million within five years.
The savings include reduced healthcare costs, lower expenditure for youth care (and youth support) and lower costs for special education or additional support within mainstream education. This also includes the costs of the group programme itself. The calculation is based on information from several existing parenting programmes that are structured similarly. The estimate has been calculated for the assumed amount of around 4,000 participants per year.
About the group programme
The group programme focuses on parents of children who are at increased risk of developing what is known as a conduct disorder. This may involve antisocial behaviour or violations of social rules, such as frequent truancy, fighting or stealing. The programme consists of approximately ten weekly sessions with six to 16 participants, led by a youth nurse, educationalist, social worker or psychologist. It focuses on positive parenting behaviours, such as giving positive feedback. It also emphasises ignoring mild undesirable behaviour and setting clear boundaries for serious negative behaviour. In addition, it aims to break negative thinking patterns among parents.
Assessment framework for prevention
The study was carried out as part of the assessment framework for prevention that RIVM is developing on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). The framework considers the costs of a preventive measure, the expected health benefits, its feasibility and what it means for participation in society. RIVM estimates the health effect, costs and savings of a measure by summarising information from existing studies. Other cases that RIVM has analysed in this way include:
• A skin cancer screening app
• A mandate to wear a helmet
• Youth mental health
• Restricting unhealthy food vendors
• Dental care access for low-income groups