Impact of two digital parent training models for managing challenging behaviors and food selectivity in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the feasibility and impacts of parental training programs aimed at reducing challenging behaviors and minimizing food selectivity patterns in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS: An open clinical trial was conducted with 23 children with ASD and their families. The intervention lasted 12 weeks and consisted of online sessions with caregivers, who were divided into two groups: Challenging Behaviors and Food Selectivity. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), and the Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory (BAMBI). Caregivers also completed daily logs regarding their children's behavioral and feeding challenges. RESULTS: There was a reduction in challenging behaviors after the intervention (μ=50.06) compared to the pre-intervention period (μ=67.81; ρ=0.001), as well as a decrease in food selectivity (μ=45.14 post vs. μ=57.71 pre; ρ=0.012). CONCLUSIONS: Both interventions demonstrated preliminary evidence of feasibility and potential positive effects for children with ASD.