Feasibility and Effects of Mobile Videoconference-based Parent- Implemented Early Start Denver Model Intervention for Early Autism

Abstract

Parent-implemented Early Start Denver Model (P-ESDM) is an evidence-based early intervention model for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We investigated the effectiveness of a low-intensity, mobile videoconferencing-based P-ESDM intervention, for 20 parents and their toddler with ASD. They were evaluated at baseline and after 3 months of intervention. We conducted stratified subgroup analysis based on participants’ characteristics and evaluated feasibility using parent questionnaires. Significant improvement was found in parental acquisition of ESDM intervention skills. However, there were no significant differences in any variables between baseline and after intervention. Stratified subgroup analysis based on ASD severity indicated significant effects on parent-child interaction among parents in the high ASD severity group. Stratified subgroup analysis based on personal health record (PHR) access frequency indicated significant effects on toddler's problem behaviour and parent’s stress among high PHR access frequency group. We observed promising feasibility outcomes for P-ESDM intervention through videoconferencing.