Mobile App-Assisted Parent Training Intervention for Behavioral Problems in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder:...

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Digital Health Interventions
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

• Problem behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) significantly impair daily living and adjustment.
• Ineffective management of these behaviors can lead to severe physical, economic, and psychological consequences for both the child and family.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the feasibility of a parent training program for children with ASD, utilizing mobile app assistance.
• The program aims to reduce problem behaviors in young children diagnosed with ASD.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week, open-label, randomized controlled trial involving parents of children with ASD (aged 36-84 months).
• Participants were randomized into an intervention group (mobile app-assisted training + usual care) or a control group (usual care only).
• The primary outcome was measured by changes in Korean Child Behavior Checklist (K-CBCL) scores.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed a decrease in K-CBCL total scores (median difference: -0.5) and Pervasive Developmental Disorder scores (median difference: -2.1).
• A significant decrease in Social Communication Questionnaire scores was observed in the intervention group (median difference: -2).
• No significant differences in caregiver stress or Clinical Global Impression-Severity of Illness scores were found between groups; no adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

• Mobile app-assisted parent training is a feasible approach for reducing problem behaviors in children with ASD.
• The accessibility and flexibility of mobile devices present a promising avenue for early intervention in ASD.