A mixed-methods feasibility pilot study of a psychoeducation program for caregivers of autistic children with type 1 diabetes.

Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study on the Feasibility of a Yoga-Based Intervention for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Parents.

Exploration of the Feasibility of an Autism Mental Health Massive Open Online Course

The results demonstrate that the MOOC has potential significance for supporting the well-being of autistic individuals by upskilling autistic people, their families, and the professionals supporting them.

An evidence-informed psychosocial intervention program for caregiver burden among family caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder: a multi-stage development and Delphi study

Background Family caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience substantial and multidimensional caregiver burden, which may adversely affect their physical and psychological well-being, family functioning, and the child’s rehabilitation. Although caregiver-focused psychosocial interventions have shown promise, structured and theory-informed programs specifically designed to address caregiver burden in this population remain limited. Methods A multi-stage intervention development design was used, guided by an integrated framework of the ABC-X family stress model and stress and coping theory. First, best-available evidence was synthesized to identify relevant intervention strategies. Second, findings from prior quantitative and qualitative phases of a mixed-methods research program were integrated to define intervention targets and draft content. Third, the draft program was refined through a two-round asynchronous modified Delphi consultation to improve content relevance, clarity, and implementation planning. Results The finalized program comprised three core modules (stressors, cognitive appraisal, and coping), seven themes, and 22 components. It incorporated psychoeducation, mindfulness-based approaches, gratitude-based expressive writing, acceptance and commitment-informed strategies, self-compassion training, and problem-solving skills. Expert response and authority were high; however, Kendall’s W values were modest across the two rounds (0.23 and 0.25). These findings suggest that the Delphi process contributed to systematic refinement and expert appraisal of the program and reflected experts’ perceptions of the relevance, clarity, and appropriateness of its content; practical feasibility remains to be tested directly with caregivers. Conclusions This study developed a theory-driven and evidence-informed psychosocial intervention framework for caregiver burden among family caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder. The program provides a structured basis for ongoing caregiver-informed feasibility testing and subsequent effectiveness evaluation; its acceptability, delivery fidelity, and later effectiveness require further empirical validation.

Optimizing treatment for depressed parents of children with emotional and behavioral disorders: A multi-site feasibility trial

Background Behavioral parent training (BPT) programs are effective for reducing disruptive behavior of many children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) and improving skills and competencies of their parents. However, these interventions are not sufficiently effective for parents who themselves have depression. This study assessed the feasibility of the Addressing Depression and Positive Parenting Techniques (ADAPT) Program—a novel BPT that includes aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. We identified whether recruitment was possible, attendance was acceptable, participants were satisfied, and facilitators adhered to the protocol. Additionally, we measured trends in changes in parent and child outcomes with intervention. Methods Participants were 28 parents and their children with EBD, referred to two hospital-based clinics. Parents were eligible if they (1) had a child aged 6–10 experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties and (2) were experiencing elevated depressive symptoms. ADAPT took place virtually over 10 weeks. Participants completed measures before, weekly and after treatment. Clinicians recorded attendance and completed weekly treatment fidelity checklists. Results We found that recruitment was possible, the intervention showed high parental satisfaction, and facilitators reported high program fidelity. Further, secondary outcome measures showed evidence of sensitivity to change in the intended direction. Conclusion Given that a priori progression criteria were met and we found preliminary indication of efficacy, we conclude that an RCT of ADAPT to determine efficacy is warranted.

From Technical Tools to Ecological Support Platforms: A Qualitative Study on the Development Needs of MR Rehabilitation Systems for Children with Autism

Objective To gain an in-depth understanding of the needs of children with autism for developing executive function rehabilitation systems based on embodied interaction and mixed reality (MR) technology, thereby providing a basis for developing the corresponding MR-based rehabilitation system. Methods From April 2025 to August 2025, using purposive sampling and following the principle of maximum variation, we selected as interview subjects pediatric doctors and nurses, child psychiatry doctors and nurses, rehabilitation therapists, psychological counselors, special education professionals, and primary caregivers of children with ASD who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria from 13 institutions in China. Face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. Results The study identified a total of 4 primary themes and 14 secondary themes from the semi-structured interviews regarding the functional vision and innovation expectations of a clinically practice-driven MR rehabilitation training system for autism. The four primary themes are: the dual-track stance of MR system innovation empowerment and cautious adaptation; functional demands and strategic vision for the development of the MR floor screen system; comprehensive whole-process, full-cycle, and whole-system management of autism rehabilitation; and challenges and difficulties in the operation and maintenance of the MR floor screen system. Conclusions On the basis of virtual technology, such systems should be designed to enhance—rather than replace—the critical role of professional practitioners, thereby synergizing technological immersion with human expertise to achieve optimal rehabilitation outcomes.

Implementing RUBI Group Parent Training for Children With Developmental Disabilities: Real-World Feasibility and Clinical Outcomes.

This study evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of the Research Units in Behavioral Intervention (RUBI) Parent Training program in an adapted group format within a community-based clinical setting. Caregivers of children aged 3 to 12 years with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities (DD) participated in 10- or 12-week RUBI groups. Data from 141 participants were retrospectively analyzed using electronic health records and standardized caregiver-reported measures. Results indicated moderate attendance (71.8% session attendance), with disparities observed by insurance type and race. Significant improvements were found in child emotional dysregulation and caregiver stress, while noncompliant behaviors showed no significant change. Outcomes were consistent for youth with autism and youth with other DD. Caregiver satisfaction was high, with 94% reporting perceived behavioral improvement and 100% recommending the program. This is the first known study to evaluate RUBI in a heterogeneous developmental population beyond autism. Findings support the feasibility and effectiveness of RUBI in a group format for diverse developmental populations, although attendance differences and cultural responsiveness warrant further investigation.