Directed to a wide range of target groups of parents ranging from high-functioning parents to court-mandated parents, the classes focus on prevention based on understanding of the psychodynamics underlying the perpetuation of abusive childrearing practices from one generation to the next. In the course for parents of older children, the 3-hour classes cover the following topics: parental ambivalence, emotional development of the child, the difference between emotional hunger and love, independence and individuation, socialization and discipline, the prevention of the formation of a negative thought process in children, methods of fostering positive attitudes toward sexuality, and the use of a parents' support network to support self-esteem. Classes consist of a combination of information-giving; questions and answers; and videotape excerpts followed by discussion, interactions with children, and socializing. Classes are intended for six or seven couples each. The guidelines list the class agenda and provide detailed instructions, lecture notes, class exercises, and other information for conducting the session. Background information about the sponsoring organization, its instructional materials, and a 2-day instructor's training agenda