The psychoeducational program for children with epilepsy and their parents (FAMOSES): results of a controlled pilot study and a survey of parent satisfaction over a five-year period

Abstract

Feasibility of the educational program FAMOSES (modular service package epilepsy for families) was evaluated in a controlled pilot study. Parents of children with epilepsy from epilepsy centers in Germany were allocated to either educational group (treatment group, n=55) or waiting-list group (control group, n=48). Questionnaires included epilepsy-specific scales (knowledge, coping, adaptation, anxiety, rules and limitations, seizure management, impact of epilepsy). Multivariate analysis of variance with repeated measurements indicated significant improvements in the treatment group compared to the control group (time×group interaction: p<0.01). Univariate analyses (ANOVA) confirmed improvements in knowledge (p<0.001), adaptation (p<0.01), epilepsy-related anxiety (p<0.05), and seizure management (p<0.05). Surveillance as well as seizure frequency (p<0.05) of children whose parents participated in the treatment group was reduced (p<0.05). Furthermore, parents' satisfaction with the content and interactive didactic format of the program was assessed in a survey with 852 parents over a five-year period. This survey showed an improvement over the course of time (p<0.05). Feasibility and need for the educational program were confirmed.