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An Evaluation of "Balance": a Home-Based, Parent-Implemented Program Addressing Emerging Problem Behavior
Kelsey W Ruppel1,2, Gregory P Hanley1,2, Robin K Landa1,3
1Psychology Department, Western New England University, Springfield, MA USA.
Insights
This study evaluated a parent-implemented program to prevent severe problem behavior in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Preliminary results show decreased problem behaviors and increased communication and social skills, indicating program effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Severe problem behavior in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) necessitates effective prevention programs.
- Parental involvement is key in early intervention for ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a parent-implemented program designed to prevent severe problem behavior in young children with ASD.
- To conduct a preliminary evaluation of the program's effects on behavior and skills.
Main Methods:
- A program involving parents as primary implementers with coaching from a Board Certified Behavior Analyst was used.
- Effects were evaluated using direct measures and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist in four children with ASD.
Main Results:
- Direct measures and Aberrant Behavior Checklist scores indicated a decrease in emerging problem behavior.
- Direct measures showed increases in child communication, social skills, and cooperation.
- Parents reported high acceptability of the program.
Conclusions:
- The parent-implemented program shows promise in preventing problem behavior and enhancing skills in young children with ASD.
- Further validation through a randomized controlled trial is recommended to confirm preventative effects.
Abstract:
Programs that prevent the development of severe problem behavior in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are critically needed. We describe a program designed to do this, and we report on a preliminary evaluation of its effects with four 3- and 4-year-old children with ASD. Parents served as the primary implementers, with twice-weekly coaching from a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Direct measures and Aberrant Behavior Checklist scores reflected decreases in emerging problem behavior. Direct measures also reflected increases in child communication, social, and cooperation skills, and parents rated the process as highly acceptable. A randomized controlled trial will be required to evaluate the extent to which the program prevents the development of problem behavior in young children with ASD.
Supplementary Information:
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40617-020-00490-3.
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