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Parent-child interaction therapy for Puerto Rican preschool children with ADHD and behavior problems: a pilot

Maribel Matos1, José J Bauermeister, Guillermo Bernal

  • 1Department of Psychology, University Center for Psychological Services and Research, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. m-matos@uprrp.edu

Family Process
|July 8, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) effectively reduced ADHD symptoms and behavioral issues in young Puerto Rican children. Gains in child behavior and parenting practices were maintained at follow-up.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Behavioral Therapy
  • Pediatric Psychiatry

Background:

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly impacts preschool children and their families.
  • Effective interventions are crucial for managing ADHD and associated behavioral problems in early childhood.
  • Culturally adapted therapies may enhance treatment outcomes for diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the initial efficacy of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for Puerto Rican preschoolers with ADHD.
  • To assess the impact of PCIT on child ADHD symptoms, behavior problems, and parent functioning.
  • To determine treatment gains and maintenance of effects at follow-up.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized controlled trial comparing PCIT to a waiting-list (WL) condition.
  • Thirty-two Puerto Rican families with children aged 4-6 years diagnosed with ADHD were recruited.
  • Standardized outcome measures assessed child symptoms, behavior, parent functioning, and treatment satisfaction.

Main Results:

  • PCIT significantly reduced hyperactivity, inattention, and externalizing behaviors in children (p < .01).
  • Parents in the PCIT group reported decreased parenting stress and improved parenting practices.
  • No significant changes were observed in the WL group; PCIT gains were maintained at 3.5-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

  • PCIT is an efficacious intervention for young Puerto Rican children with ADHD and significant behavior problems.
  • The therapy demonstrates positive effects on child behavior and parent-child interactions.
  • Culturally relevant interventions like PCIT offer a promising approach for underserved communities.

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