Hybrid Behavioral Intervention for Caregivers of Children With Developmental Delay: Pilot Study

Caregivers of children with developmental delays often experience high stress and challenges in parent-child interactions. The objective of this study was to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a caregiver behavioral intervention delivered in hybrid and self-study formats. Forty caregivers were randomized to an 8-week hybrid program (online modules plus therapist consultations) or a self-study program. Primary outcomes included caregiver stress and self-efficacy, with feasibility assessed through satisfaction and intervention fidelity. Both groups showed improvements in caregiver stress and parent-child interaction, with no significant between-group differences. The self-study group demonstrated additional gains in parenting competence. The hybrid group reported higher satisfaction and fidelity, with large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 3.96 and 4.08) and described stronger parent-child connections. The intervention was feasible and supported a stepped-care approach, with self-study as a first-line option and hybrid models for families needing additional support. Trials: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05827952.