Implementing the Familias Fuertes Program in a Non-Traditional Immigration State: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility and Acceptability Study

Background and Purpose: Latinx families residing in non-traditional immigration states such as Tennessee experience distinct sociocultural stressors—including immigrant-exclusionary sentiment, language barriers, and limited access to services—that elevate the risk of behavioral health challenges among youth (Held et al., 2022). Family-based prevention programs, particularly those that are culturally tailored, have shown promise in reducing youth problem behaviors and strengthening parent-child relationships (Parra-Cardona et al., 2019; Perrino et al., 2014). Familias Fuertes (FF) is a seven-session, culturally adapted version of the Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10–14 (SFP 10-14), designed to prevent substance use and other risk behaviors among Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents. While FF has demonstrated promise in Latin America and select U.S. regions (Orpinas et al., 2014; Pinheiro-Carozzo et al., 2021), there is limited empirical evidence regarding its feasibility and acceptability in non-traditional immigration contexts. This study seeks to evaluate the implementation of FF with Latinx families in Tennessee and to explore participants’ perceptions of the program’s cultural relevance and impact.
Methods: This mixed-methods study employs a single-arm, pre-post design to assess six FF cohorts delivered in partnership with two community-based organizations in Tennessee. Quantitative data are being collected through pre- and post-program surveys assessing participant satisfaction and willingness to recommend the program. Feasibility is assessed using program attendance records and post-session facilitator reports. To examine acceptability in greater depth, qualitative data are being collected through focus groups with Latinx youth and caregivers, as well as facilitators. An inductive thematic analysis approach is being used to analyze focus group transcripts, with input from community partners to ensure cultural responsiveness in interpretation.
Preliminary Results: Preliminary findings indicate strong feasibility and acceptability of the FF program. At least five caregiver-youth dyads have been successfully enrolled per cohort (n = 25 dyads / 50 participants total), with over 65% of enrolled dyads completing a minimum of five of the seven sessions. More than 70% of survey respondents reported moderate to high satisfaction with the program, and a similar proportion indicated they would recommend it to other Latinx families. Early focus group findings suggest participants found the program educational, culturally relevant, and effective in enhancing family communication, managing peer pressure, and improving emotional understanding. Facilitators also described the program as beneficial for families, but identified implementation challenges, including the need for increased grant support, clearer fidelity monitoring, and enhanced infrastructure to support sustainable delivery.
Conclusions and Implications: These preliminary results highlight the critical importance of culturally relevant, community-based prevention efforts in under-resourced regions. Insights from both participant and facilitator feedback will inform future adaptations, enhance program delivery, and support scalability in non-traditional immigrant contexts. This research contributes to a growing body of literature on implementing prevention programs with cultural humility and community collaboration. Future efforts should prioritize investment in community-academic partnerships and adaptable program models that reflect the lived experiences of Latinx families in underserved areas.