A randomized controlled trial of a telehealth parenting intervention: A mixed-disability trial

Background: The quality of parenting a child receives has a major impact on development, wellbeing and future life opportunities. Aims: This study examined the efficacy of Triple P Online Disability (TPOL-D) a telehealth intervention for parents of children with a disability. Methods: Ninety-eight parents and carers of children aged 2-12 years diagnosed with a range of developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities were randomly assigned to either the intervention (51) or treatment-as-usual (47) control group. Results: At post-intervention parents receiving the TPOL-D intervention demonstrated significant improvements in parenting practices and parenting self-efficacy, however a significant change in parent-reported child behavioral and emotional problems was not detected. At 3-month follow up intervention gains were maintained and/or enhanced. A significant decrease in parent reported child behavioral and emotional problems was also detected at this time. Conclusions: The results indicate that TPOL-D is a promising telehealth intervention for a mixed disability group.