Parent-provider relationships in home visiting: An introduction to relational-cultural theory and critical race theory frameworks

Abstract

Home visiting is a common modality for delivering services to families, particularly those with young children. At the core of home visiting is the relationship between the parent and the service provider, the home visitor. This paper focuses on characterizing parent-provider relationships in home visiting contexts. We discuss current conceptualizations of parent-provider relationships in home visiting and introduce a proposal to use Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) and Critical Race Theory (CRT) as theoretical foundations for conceptualizing and enhancing parent-provider relationships – especially for Black families. Further, we present suggestions meant to enhance providers’ knowledge and implementation of the proposed theoretical frameworks in home visiting. Limitations such as the large responsibility on home visitors to apply and integrate theory-driven strategies and future directions are discussed.