A Virtual Resiliency Intervention for Parents of Children with Autism: A Randomized Pilot Trial

Abstract

Parents of children with Autism experience high levels of stress. Resiliency is the ability to cope and adapt when faced with stressful events. This randomized, waitlist controlled pilot trial examines the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an adapted virtual mind-body group intervention for parents of children with ASD. The intervention was feasible and acceptable. The immediate treatment group showed no difference in distress and greater improvement in resiliency and stress reactivity/coping relative to the delayed treatment group, (M difference 5.78; p = .038 and M difference 7.78; p = .001 respectively). Findings showed promising feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy for parents of children with ASD.

Keywords: Autism; Autism spectrum disorder; Mind body; Parent; Resiliency; Stress.

Figures

Fig. 1

Conceptual model. CAMS-R cognitive and affective mindfulness scale-revised, CBT cognitive behavioral therapy, CES current experience scale, CI confidence interval, IRI interpersonal reactivity index, MOCS-A measure of current status, MOS-SSS medical outcome study social support survey, PANAS-Pos positive and negative affect schedule-positive subscale, PHQ-4 patient health questionnaire-4, PSWQ Penn State Worry Questionnaire, SD standard deviation, VAS visual analogue scale

Fig. 2

SMART-3RP intervention session content. RR Relaxation Response

Fig. 3

Schema: Waitlist controlled study design

Fig. 4

Consort diagram