Meta-Analysis of Parent Training Programs Utilizing Behavior Intervention Technologies

Abstract

Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) traditionally occurs in face-to-face (FTF BPT). Recently, Behavioral Intervention Technology (BIT) has been developed to deliver BPT in lieu of or as an adjunct to FTF BPT using websites, computer software, smartphone applications, podcasts, pre-recorded sessions, and teletherapy. The present meta-analysis reviews BIT BPT randomized control and comparison studies to determine the overall efficacy of BITs, if the level of human support significantly effects BIT BPT treatment outcomes, and which populations BIT BPT are effective for, by analyzing the following study variables: socioeconomic status, race, and clinical population. The analyses indicated that, overall, BIT BPT is an effective treatment (g = 0.62), and did not indicate a significant difference between levels of human support (?2 (3) = 4.94, p = 0.18). Analysis did indicate a significant difference between studies that used waitlist or education control groups, compared to studies that used active treatment controls (?2 (1) = 12.90, p = 0.00). The analyses did not indicate a significant difference between clinical population, low socioeconomic status, and racial minority studies. These findings provide preliminary evidence that BIT BPT is effective for treating child and adolescent externalizing behavior in a variety of populations.

Using an Artificial Intelligence Based Chatbot to Provide Parent Training: Results from a Feasibility Study

“…BITs refer to the use of technological devices (i.e., cell phones, tablets) in the field of health, with the aim to promote behavioral changes (Mohr et al 2014). Different parent training programs have already been implemented using BITs, proving to be effective in reducing disruptive behavior, improving the sense of parental self-efficacy, and developing parental skills (Bausback and Bunge 2021;Cefai et al 2010;Corralejo and Rodríguez 2018;Morawska et al 2014;Sourander et al 2016).…”

“Will it Work as Well on Zoom?” A Natural Experiment During the Covid-19 Pandemic of Delivering Parenting Groups Via Video Conferencing or in Person

“…Our results are also in line with a couple of pre-post studies in which VC was used as way of delivery, where effect sizes were reported to be similar to other studies of on-site parenting programs (Canário et al, 2021 ; Reese et al, 2012 ; Reese et al, 2015 ). Even if the evidence of the effectiveness for parenting programs that have been developed for digital delivery (e.g., internet-based parenting programs) is fairly strong (Baumel et al, 2016 ; Bausback & Bunge, 2021 ; Thongseiratch et al, 2020 ), it is important to build evidence for the use of VC as delivery method of parenting programs designed for on-site group meetings. This is not the least imperative in times of crises or in settings that lack recourses, in which access to platforms and programs designed to be delivered digitally may be limited.…”

“…There is a growing evidence base for the effectiveness of delivering parenting programs through digital solutions (Baumel et al, 2016 ; Bausback & Bunge, 2021 ; Thongseiratch et al, 2020 ). Even when modes of delivery were compared directly in the same study, a digital version was found to be non-inferior to the on-site version of a parenting program (Prinz et al, 2022 ).…”

“…However, most studies of remotely delivered parenting programs have relied on self-directed content (e.g., internet-based programs with text, videos, and online-based exercises) with therapist support through text messaging or telephone. Thus, most studies investigate the effects of programs that have been specifically developed for digital delivery (Baumel et al, 2016 ; Bausback & Bunge, 2021 ; Thongseiratch et al, 2020 ). However, at least in Sweden, the access to such programs in regular services is low.…”

User experience with a parenting chatbot micro intervention

“…Digital mental health interventions have become a popular method of overcoming the barriers to access and providing support for mental health. Parenting programs delivered through digital means have effectively treated behavioral problems in children and adolescents (8)(9)(10)(11)(12); however, the literature on chatbots for parenting skills is scarce.…”