Adapting an Evidence-Based Parent Training Program for Delivery On an Android Tablet

Introduction: Considerable evidence shows that behavioral parent training (PT) interventions are effective in preventing child behavior problems. However, program efficacy – when delivered in face-to-face formats – is reduced due to low enrollment and group attendance. Developing innovative approaches to service delivery are needed to overcome time and logistical barriers to in-person participation. It is important, however, that delivery adaptations are consistent with the underlying theory and active ingredients of the intervention and meet the needs of the intended intervention recipients. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the development of an adaptation of an evidence-based PT program (the group based Chicago Parent Program (CPP)) delivered online via an Android tablet. In order to assure the relevance and match with the original program, the delivery adaptation is being developed in partnership with three key informant groups – the designers of the group based program, a team of multimedia designers, and an advisory panel of target parents.

Methods: The three key informant groups were assembled to guide the web-based adaptation of the Chicago Parent Program (eCPP). The designers of the CPP are providing direction and feedback regarding translation of content to maintain the conceptual base of the intervention and adherence to the key intervention components. The multimedia designers, Klein Buendel, bring their expertise in the development and use of technology to enhance learning. The parent advisory panel, consisting of urban, low income parents of young children, are providing information and guidance related to design, content presentation, and acceptability of the model to parents like themselves. In an iterative process, feedback from the key informant groups are being shared until consensus is reached on a final version of the eCPP. The goal of this process is to develop a product that is easy to use, acceptable to the intended population, and consistent with the core components of the group-based CPP.

Results: The results presented will highlight the development process of the eCPP, including challenges and opportunities related to web-based adaptation. The innovative potential of using tablet technology will be highlighted. Results will describe the process of intervention adaptation.

Conclusions: Developing innovative delivery models for evidence-based programs are promising to increase program sustainability and parent access to and engagement in evidence-based prevention programs.  Furthermore, the iterative process of eCPP development, informed by CPP developers, target parents, and multimedia designers serves as a promising model upon which future online adaptions may be developed.