Pilot of an Online Spanish-Language Support Group for Caregivers of Neurodivergent Children

Abstract

Spanish-speaking caregivers of neurodivergent children face unique challenges due to language barriers and socioeconomic status. This study evaluates the acceptability and effectiveness (as measured by pre-post changes in self-reported family empowerment and caregiver stress) of an online support group for Spanish-speaking caregivers. Although this study found no statistically significant changes in caregiver stress nor empowerment, participants reported high satisfaction and likelihood to recommend the group. The study emphasizes that support groups for Spanish-speaking families of neurodivergent children are feasible and acceptable, even though changes in caregiver outcomes were not detected immediately following the program. Limitations include that the program was internally developed and that measures used potentially may have had limited sensitivity. Future research could consider other outcome measures and compare this program to other previously validated programs.