A mobile application for managing children's behavioral problems: Protocol for the non-randomized pilot study using...

Area of Science:

• * Digital health interventions
• * Child psychology
• * Behavioral science

Background:

• * Existing parenting mobile applications have limitations in addressing parental self-efficacy.
• * Parental self-efficacy is a key factor in managing children's problem behaviors.
• * A theory-driven approach is needed for effective digital parenting interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To describe the protocol for a pilot study of a mobile parenting intervention.
• * To enhance parental self-efficacy using a theory-driven digital approach.
• * To reduce problem behaviors in children through improved parenting.

Main Methods:

• * Intervention developed using the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) model.
• * Theoretical framework based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory and behavior change techniques.
• * Pilot study involves 30 caregivers, with evaluation through usage data, questionnaires, and interviews.

Main Results:

• * Analysis identified parental self-efficacy as a critical intervention target.
• * The mobile application is designed to address all four sources of self-efficacy.
• * Development is ongoing, with a pilot study planned for May 2026.

Conclusions:

• * The protocol details a systematic development of a mobile parenting intervention.
• * Findings are expected to inform the feasibility of digital self-efficacy support for parents.
• * This approach targets parents of children with behavioral issues.