A Feasibility Trial of a Group, Online Behavior Parent Training Program Implemented by School Practitioners for Caregivers of Elementary School Students
Article
Fabiano, GA, Merrill, BM, Tower, D. (2025). A Feasibility Trial of a Group, Online Behavior Parent Training Program Implemented by School Practitioners for Caregivers of Elementary School Students
. 10.1080/23794925.2025.2562884
Fabiano, GA, Merrill, BM, Tower, D. (2025). A Feasibility Trial of a Group, Online Behavior Parent Training Program Implemented by School Practitioners for Caregivers of Elementary School Students
. 10.1080/23794925.2025.2562884
Background: Behavioral parent training is an evidence-based approach for promoting prosocial behavior and reducing challenging behaviors in children. However, there remains a gap in availability and access for caregivers who may benefit from participating in this intervention. Objective: The current study aims to examine the feasibility and acceptability of behavioral parent training (BPT) delivered via telehealth by school personnel for families of elementary-age children in a group format. Method: Within a researcher-practitioner partnership approach, the initial promise of the group BPT was evaluated in an open trial design. Eight school personnel were trained to implement group telehealth BPT, and sixteen families enrolled and completed baseline measures. Initial ratings of child improvement were collected, and caregiver attendance and satisfaction were also examined. Results: This initial pilot study demonstrated that the program was well-regarded on measures of satisfaction and it demonstrated an initial signal of improvement on parent ratings. Conclusions: It was feasible to train school practitioners to implement the telehealth group BPT. Initial results suggested that parents reliably attended sessions and benefited from the program, and they were satisfied with the intervention approach. Future efforts should continue to develop these group-based, telehealth approaches to promote greater reach and effectiveness of parent training interventions in school settings.