Project ECHO: Supporting Parents of Children with Disabilities Using an Online, Telementoring Service Delivery Model

Abstract

Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities engage in higher rates of challenging behavior (CB) than their typically developing peers. Effective and sustainable intervention and supports designed to reduce CB, as well as promote the development of positive, prosocial behavior, are urgently needed. One approach to targeting CB is providing parents with education and support to serve as the agents of behavior change. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a parent education (PE) program focused on the principles of applied behavior analysis delivered using the Project ECHO service delivery model. Results demonstrate positive outcomes in parents' senses of competency and empowerment. In addition, parents identified the intervention as acceptable, suggesting this model as a highly effective and sustainable PE model for this population.