Examining the Implementation of the Italian Version of the Teen Online Problem-Solving Program Coupled With Remote...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Pediatric neurology
• Clinical psychology

Background:

• Pediatric acquired brain injury (ABI) often leads to cognitive and socioemotional deficits.
• Targeted rehabilitation is crucial to mitigate long-term functional decline and associated costs.
• Executive functioning (EF) is a key area for intervention in pediatric ABI survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the feasibility and efficacy of the Italian version of the Teen Online Problem-Solving (I-TOPS) intervention.
• To compare I-TOPS with a web-based wellness intervention in adolescents with pediatric ABI.
• To assess improvements in problem-solving abilities and executive functioning.

Main Methods:

• A double-blinded, phase-2 randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 42 adolescents.
• Remote delivery of 10-session web-based interventions (I-TOPS vs. wellness).
• Assessment of EF, behavioral, and psychological functioning using performance-based measures and questionnaires; parent well-being also assessed.

Main Results:

• The study enrolled 42 adolescents, with 81% completing the intervention and post-treatment evaluation.
• 31 participants completed the 6-month follow-up evaluation.
• Data analysis for feasibility and efficacy is pending; results expected in 2025.

Conclusions:

• This RCT provides crucial data for pediatric ABI rehabilitation practices in Italy.
• Positive findings could support a larger phase-3 RCT to evaluate cost-effectiveness.
• The I-TOPS intervention shows potential for improving EF in pediatric ABI survivors.