Acceptability of a Virtual Mind-Body Intervention for Parents of Children With Autism or Learning Disabilities

Christina M Luberto, Giselle K Perez, Lucy Finkelstein-Fox, Rachel A Millstein, Lucy Fell, Emma Chad-Friedman, Elyse R Park, Karen A Kuhlthau, Christina M Luberto, Giselle K Perez, Lucy Finkelstein-Fox, Rachel A Millstein, Lucy Fell, Emma Chad-Friedman, Elyse R Park, Karen A Kuhlthau

Abstract

Objective: Parents of children with learning/attentional disabilities (LAD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at elevated risk for chronic stress. Types of stress and treatment needs differ between these parent groups. We adapted our evidence-based mind-body intervention (SMART-3RP) for parents of children with LAD and ASD, delivered via videoconferencing. Preliminary results from our two wait-list randomized pilot trials suggest the programs were feasible and efficacious. To gain an in-depth understanding of acceptability, the purpose of this secondary analysis from the RCTs is to (1) explore feedback regarding the virtual SMART-3RP and (2) compare feedback across LAD and ASD parents.

Methods: Participants were randomized to immediate or delayed SMART-3RP (separate groups for LAD and ASD) and completed a feedback questionnaire post-intervention (N = 33 LAD, N = 37 ASD; 93% female, 93% white, Mage = 45.52, SD = 6.50).

Results: Participants reported the intervention had the right number of sessions (69%), session duration (83%), and amount of structure (83%). They felt comfortable during sessions (89%) and found mind-body skills helpful (89%). There were no significant differences between parent groups other than a trend for more ASD parents reporting sessions were too long (22% ASD vs. 6% LAD, X2 = 5.67, p =0.06). Qualitative themes were similar across parents and included that video delivery had some technical challenges but enabled participation; group support and mind-body skills were helpful; and further SMART-3RP sessions or therapy is needed.

Conclusion: LAD and ASD parents found a synchronous video-based mind-body resiliency program acceptable. Technology limitations notwithstanding, online delivery was very satisfactory and overcame obstacles to participation.

Keywords: autism spectrum disorder; e-health; learning/attentional disabilities; resiliency.

Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Conflicting Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

© The Author(s) 2021.

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Source: PubMed

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