FIRST STEPS: A Pilot Randomized Study Analyzing the Preliminary Efficacy of the Incredible Years for Autism Spectrum...

Having access to parenting interventions in the early years is key to improve developmental outcomes of children with neurodevelopmental problems. The Incredible Years^® Parent Program has been adapted for families of children with autism or language delays (IY-ASLD^®). The aim of this study is to analyze the preliminary efficacy of the intervention in the Spanish public mental health services.

The FIRST STEPS study is a multicenter, pilot randomized controlled trial. Sixty-two families of children with autism spectrum disorder and preterm children with communication and/or socialization difficulties (aged 2-5 years) were recruited. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the intervention was performed online. A generalized estimating equations model was conducted.

No significant differences in parental stress ([Formula: see text] = 2.01, [Formula: see text]0.640), depressive symptoms ([Formula: see text] = - 1.42, [Formula: see text]0.437), child psychopathology ([Formula: see text] = 0.74, [Formula: see text]0.886) ), positive parenting [Formula: see text] = 2.25, [Formula: see text]0.076) or total expressed emotion ([Formula: see text] = - 0.10, [Formula: see text]0.605) were found between groups at T2. In terms of expressed emotion at T2, a significant interaction was observed between positive comments at T1 (a subscale of the expressed emotion tool) and study group ([Formula: see text] = 0.75, [Formula: see text]0.007).

Future studies should analyze the efficacy of the program using a larger sample. Families showing higher levels of expressed emotion might need more support during the therapy groups to improve this variable.

The protocol for the study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID number: NCT04358484. Unique Protocol ID: PIC-220-19).