October 26, 2023
By Alicia Davis
All judges presiding over family cases know the multifaceted challenges posed by families in conflict. Parenting education is a valuable court tool for protecting children during parental separation and smoothing family transitions. The Families in Transition (FIT) program was introduced in September 2023 from a collaboration between the National Center for State Courts and the Maricopa County Superior Court in Arizona. FIT stands as an innovative online program to augment traditional in-person classes. It represents not merely another parenting curriculum, but a tool for managing complex family cases.
FIT’s significance stems from its nuanced approach. After courts sort through family caseloads and identify the specific needs of families, the next logical step is discerning which services are best suited to each family. Here, FIT distinguishes itself by being specifically tailored to address the intricacies of high-conflict cases.
FIT’s merits are not merely theoretical. Dr. Karey O'Hara of Arizona State University, well known for her work in child development, undertook a rigorous evaluation. Her findings were illuminating:
- Following the program, participants reported a tangible reduction in parental conflict.
- Child behavior problems, often a significant concern in these scenarios, saw a marked decrease post-program.
- The allure of FIT wasn’t just its digital format; the content resonated deeply with participants. When paralleled with established in-person conflict courses, participants found FIT’s content equally engaging, relevant, and actionable.
Judge Bruce R. Cohen served as the presiding judge of the Maricopa County Superior Court Family Division when he conceived the idea of this innovative course. “FIT’s evolution from an abstract concept to a concrete initiative was akin to witnessing the shine of a new penny. Yet, its sheen wasn’t from surface polish but from its deep, research-driven roots. We weren’t validating a finished product; we were intricately weaving research insights into its every phase.”
Parent education success stories often remain localized, but not FIT. Given its demonstrated benefit, NCSC is working to make this course available to parties nationwide. The insights, methodologies, and tools that FIT encapsulates could benefit families everywhere. NCSC is committed to continuing to study FIT’s impact.
FIT has tremendous potential as an evidence-based program to strengthen family relationships. For those seeking to delve deeper into FIT and its potential to help resolve family cases, more details are available on NCSC’s Families in Transition page.
Has your state considered enhanced ways to deal with families in conflict? Email us at Knowledge@ncsc.org or call 800-616-6164 and let us know. Follow the National Center for State Courts on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Vimeo.