The Use of Qualitative Research in Studies of Caregiver Coaching for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Psychiatry
Autism
Therapy
Children
Qualitative
Interview
Coaching
Parent
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Abstract
This qualitative study investigated the perspectives of early intervention providers regarding their participation in a caregiver coaching trial for young children with autism spectrum disorder. Through semi-structured interviews with four providers, key barriers and facilitators to effective caregiver coaching within a publicly funded early intervention setting, in addition to perceptions of change in their confidence and motivation, were identified. One major barrier was caregiver work schedules, which sometimes hindered engagement during sessions. Notable facilitators to caregiver coaching included caregiver buy-in and open communication with caregivers. Providers also reported growth in their confidence and motivation to coach as a result of the resources provided to them (PEACE) and practice. Recommendations for providers involve offering flexible scheduling of sessions, focusing on the maintenance or increase of open communication, and implementing strategies to improve caregiver engagement. Although results were limited by the small sample size, findings suggest potential actions to improve caregiver coaching and avenues for future research.