Lessons learned: Engaging culturally diverse families in neurodevelopmental disorders intervention research

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Health Disparities
• Clinical Research Methodology

Background:

• Low-income and ethnic minority families face significant barriers in accessing diagnostic and treatment services for neurodevelopmental conditions.
• Ethnic minority children are underrepresented in research on neurodevelopmental disorders, with a notable lack of studies on treatment adaptations for these populations.
• There is a critical gap in research on adapting autism spectrum disorder treatments for low-income Latino communities and limited studies on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatments in these groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe methodological considerations and adaptations for recruiting and engaging low-income, ethnic minority (particularly Latino) families in a clinical trial.
• To facilitate the participation of underserved populations in research on school-based interventions for executive dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a Diffusion of Innovation framework to guide research procedure adaptations.
• Focused on effective recruitment and engagement strategies for low-income, ethnic minority families of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Conducted a comparative effectiveness trial of two school-based interventions for executive dysfunction.

Main Results:

• The study outlines specific methodological adaptations necessary for inclusive research practices.
• The Diffusion of Innovation framework provided a structured approach to address recruitment and engagement challenges.
• Successfully recruited and engaged the target population in a trial for executive dysfunction interventions.

Conclusions:

• Effective recruitment and engagement of low-income, ethnic minority families require tailored methodological approaches.
• Adapting research procedures using frameworks like Diffusion of Innovation is crucial for reducing disparities in neurodevelopmental disorder research.
• The findings support the development of culturally sensitive and accessible interventions for diverse populations.