Introduction
Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) is a well-established intervention for addressing early-onset behavior disorders (BDs) in children. However, socioeconomic barriers often hinder the effectiveness of these interventions, particularly for low-income families. The study titled "Technology-Enhanced Behavioral Parent Training: The Relationship Between Technology Use and Efficiency of Service Delivery" offers valuable insights into how technology can enhance BPT outcomes. This blog will explore the study's findings and discuss how practitioners can leverage these insights to improve their practice.
Understanding the Study
The study conducted by McCall et al. (2023) focused on the use of a technology-enhanced BPT program, Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC), which incorporated a mobile app designed to improve parent engagement and service delivery efficiency. The study involved 34 low-income families and examined how different components of the app influenced the time required to achieve skill mastery in BPT.
Key Findings
- App Usage and Efficiency: Increased use of the app's components, particularly the Videorecording Skills Practice, significantly reduced the number of weeks required for families to achieve skill mastery.
- Component Impact: While all components were beneficial, the Videorecording Skills Practice was the most effective in enhancing service delivery efficiency.
- Engagement and Accountability: The app provided a mechanism for accountability, encouraging parents to engage more consistently in home practice.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings highlight the potential of integrating technology into BPT programs to enhance outcomes. Here are some actionable insights:
- Incorporate Technology: Consider using mobile apps or other digital tools to complement traditional BPT methods. These tools can provide additional support and resources for parents.
- Focus on Engagement: Use technology to increase parent engagement by providing reminders, feedback, and support for home practice.
- Leverage Videorecording: Encourage parents to use videorecording features to practice skills at home, allowing for tailored feedback and accountability.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of technology-enhanced BPT and to identify the most effective components for different populations. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing research and consider participating in studies that explore innovative approaches to BPT.
Conclusion
Integrating technology into BPT programs can significantly enhance service delivery efficiency and improve outcomes for families, particularly those facing socioeconomic barriers. By leveraging the findings of this study, practitioners can better support parents and children in achieving meaningful behavioral change.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Technology-Enhanced Behavioral Parent Training: The Relationship Between Technology Use and Efficiency of Service Delivery.
