Parents Perspective toward Implementing Pivotal Response Treatment in Natural Environment to Enhance Social Communication and Sensory Processing of Children with Autism

Abstract

Parents of children with autism face many challenges while raising such a child due to behavioral, social, and sensory related characteristics. Qualitative focus group methodology was used to examine the effects of providing Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) intervention in the natural environmental activity of horseback riding on improving social communication, and sensory processing of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe parents’ perceptions of how this intervention affects the lives of their children at home and across various natural settings. Key influences included (a) eye contact and joint attention, (b) peers and adults’ interaction, (c) verbal and non-verbal communication, (d) behavior management, (e) eating and sleeping organized patterns, and (f) self-stimulatory behaviors. These elements were discussed across all parents who participated in the study. However, specific experiences and outcomes varied across the critical influences mentioned above.

Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) - Parent Group Training for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study on Perspectives of Parents

“…In this manner, sensitivity to the needs of parents and their offspring with ASD and the involvement of stakeholders and frontline practitioners is facilitated. As far as we know, only three qualitative studies of PRT have been reported (Alshirawi et al, 2018 ; Kim & Trainor, 2020 ; Stahmer et al, 2012 ). Stahmer et al ( 2012 ) conducted focus group meetings to examine teachers' perspectives on the use of PRT in the classroom.…”

“…Kim & Trainor ( 2020 ) examined the cultural responsiveness of a PRT intervention for Korean American children with ASD and their parents ( n = 4) in a community setting, with the collection and analysis of interviews, observations, and field notes. The study of Alshirawi et al ( 2018 ) examined parents’ perspectives regarding the impact of PRT integrated in horseback riding sessions ( n = 8) by using semi-structured interviews and a focus group. Parents reported that children showed improvement in social communication (verbal and nonverbal), social motivation, and sensory processing.…”