Behavioral Parent Training Via Telehealth for Autistic Children in Rural Appalachia: A Mixed Methods Feasibility Study

Abstract

Behavioral parent training (BPT) is an empirically supported approach for addressing the behavioral concerns of autistic children. However, many families face barriers to accessing BPT. Adapting BPT via telehealth technology may improve access for families, especially those living in rural regions. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of a Research Units in Behavioral Intervention (RUBI), a BPT program for autistic children, via telehealth to families living in the Appalachian region of the United States. We employed a mixed-methods approach to examine the feasibility and potential efficacy of implementing the Research Units in Behavioral Intervention Autism Network parent training via telehealth (RUBI-T) with seven rural parent-child dyads. RUBI-T was found to be feasible and satisfactory to parents and community providers. RUBI-T also shows promise for reducing children’s disruptive behavior, improving children’s adaptive skills, and reducing parent stress, although a more thorough evaluation of its efficacy is warranted. The limitations and implications of the results are discussed.