Developing the eCPP: adapting an evidence-based parent training program for digital delivery in primary care settings

Developing innovative delivery methods is needed to overcome time and logistic barriers to in-person participation in evidence-based parent training (PT) programs.

The purpose of this paper is to (a) describe the systematic process for adapting an evidence-based group PT program (the Chicago Parent Program) to a tablet-based delivery format, (b) present the adapted program, and (c) discuss opportunities and challenges of adapting evidence-based programs for alternative delivery methods.

To ensure consistency with the original program and relevance to the intended program recipients, three groups-parents (n = 10), CPP developers (n = 3), and digital delivery experts- were engaged throughout the systematic steps of the delivery adaptation of the Chicago Parent Program (eCPP). Group meetings were used to identify the program's core components, develop the adaptation program model, assess potential mismatches for the new delivery context, and adapt the original program model and materials.

The final eCPP is a six-module Internet-based intervention that includes: interactive activities, video examples and explanations of parenting strategies, reflection questions, assessment of parent knowledge with feedback, and module practice assignments.

Developing innovative delivery approaches for evidenced-based interventions are promising to increase intervention sustainability and participant access and engagement. It is critical that these adaptations are systematic and developed with expert consultation and community input.