Optimizing Engagement in Behavioral Parent Training: Progress Toward a Technology-Enhanced Treatment Model. Issue 2 (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Deborah J.; Loiselle, Raelyn; Zachary, Chloe; Georgeson, Alexis R.; Highlander, April; Turner, Patrick; Youngstrom, Jennifer K.; Khavjou, Olga; Anton, Margaret T.; Gonzalez, Michelle; Bresland, Nicole Lafko; Forehand, Rex
• Is Part Of: Behavior therapy. Volume 52:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 508
• Page End: 521
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: technology -- engagement -- low-income -- behavioral parent training -- behavior disorders; Behavior therapy -- Periodicals; 616.8914205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2020.07.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0005-7894

Abstract

Abstract: Low-income families are more likely to have a child with an early-onset Behavior Disorder (BD); yet, socioeconomic strain challenges engagement in Behavioral Parent Training (BPT). This study follows a promising pilot to further examine the potential to cost-effectively improve low-income families' engagement in and the efficiency of BPT. Low-income families were randomized to (a) Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC; McMahon & Forehand, 2003), a weekly, mastery-based BPT program that includes both the parent and child or (b) Technology-Enhanced HNC (TE-HNC), which includes all of the standard HNC components plus a parent mobile application and therapist web portal that provide between-session monitoring, modeling, and coaching of parent skill use with the goal of improved engagement in the context of financial strain. Relative to HNC, TE-HNC families had greater homework compliance and mid-week call participation. TE-HNC completers also required fewer weeks to achieve skill mastery and, in turn, to complete treatment than those in HNC without compromising parent satisfaction with treatment; yet, session attendance and completion were not different between groups. Future directions and clinical implications are discussed. Highlights: Treatment engagement is a perennial challenge in children's mental health BPT engagement is particularly difficult for low-income families Results suggest technology-enhanced BPT can improve some engagement outcomes Additional personalization of technology-enhanced BPT may further improve engagement