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A Factorial Randomized Controlled Trial to Optimize User Engagement With a Chatbot-Led Parenting Intervention:
Maria Da Graca Ambrosio1, Jamie M Lachman1,2,3, Paula Zinzer1
1University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
JMIR Research Protocols
|May 3, 2024
Summary
This study tested engagement strategies for ParentText, a chatbot intervention to prevent violence against children (VAC). Findings will optimize digital parenting programs for scalability in low-income countries.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Digital Health Interventions
- Child Protection
Background:
- Violence against children (VAC) is a significant public health issue with lasting consequences.
- Evidence-based parenting programs can prevent VAC but face scalability challenges in low- and middle-income countries.
- Digital delivery, such as chatbots, offers a scalable solution, but user engagement is key for effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify optimal engagement strategies for the ParentText chatbot intervention.
- To determine the most effective and cost-effective combination of components for preventing VAC.
- To inform the scale-up of digital parenting programs in resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods design using a 2x2 factorial cluster-randomized controlled trial and qualitative interviews.
- Recruitment of parents and adolescent girls (aged 10-17) in Mpumalanga, South Africa (N=3840 target).
- Comparison of ParentText alone versus combined with in-person sessions and/or WhatsApp support groups.
Main Results:
- Study enrolled 1009 participants; 744 completed chatbot onboarding.
- 92.96% of participants were female, with an average age of 43 years.
- Data collection occurred between August and November 2023.
Conclusions:
- This is the first trial to rigorously assess engagement with a chatbot-led parenting intervention in a low- or middle-income country.
- Results will guide the selection of delivery components for ParentText.
- Further evaluation via a randomized controlled trial is planned for 2024.
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