Feasibility of Parent Training via Telehealth for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Disruptive Behavior: A Demonstration Pilot

J Autism Dev Disord. 2018 Apr;48(4):1020-1030. doi: 10.1007/s10803-017-3363-2.

Abstract

Telehealth is a potential solution to limited access to specialized services for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in rural areas. We conducted a feasibility trial of parent training with children ages 3-8 with ASD and disruptive behavior from rural communities. Fourteen children (mean age 5.8 ± 1.7) from four telehealth sites enrolled. Thirteen families (92.9%) completed treatment, with 91.6% of core sessions attended. Therapists attained 98% fidelity to the manual and 93% of expected outcome measures were collected at week 24. Eleven of 14 (78.6%) participants were rated as much/very much improved. Parent training via telehealth was acceptable to parents and treatment could be delivered reliably by therapists. Preliminary efficacy findings suggests further study is justified.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Disruptive behavior; Parent training; Telehealth.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / nursing
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / psychology*
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder / therapy*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Parents / education*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Problem Behavior / psychology*
  • Rural Population
  • Telemedicine / methods*