The Inclusion of Fathers in Parent Coaching Interventions for Young Autistic Children: A Systematic Review

Parent-mediated interventions are fundamental in supporting parents of autistic children. In particular, parent coaching has emerged as a key component of such interventions. However, the characteristics of such interventions remain underexplored. Therefore, the current review aimed to synthesise characteristics of parent-coaching interventions for young autistic children (<6 years). Specifically, the review aimed to investigate the extent to which fathers are being included in parent-coaching interventions. A systematic review of the literature was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 5 studies which met the strict inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Studies were summarised regarding participant information, study design, intervention characteristics, dependent variables, study outcomes and social validity findings. Results revealed that only 2 fathers were represented in the included studies, which included 94 parent-child dyads overall. Although limited to two studies, outcomes indicated that parent-coaching can be successfully implemented with fathers. Findings concerning other intervention characteristics are also discussed. Overall, this review highlights the need for more in-depth research into fathers' experiences of parent-coaching interventions and related child outcomes.