Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Puerto Rican Preschool Children with ADHD and Behavior Problems: A Pilot Efficacy Study |
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Authors: | MARIBEL MATOS JOSÉ J BAUERMEISTER† GUILLERMO BERNAL‡ |
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Institution: | Department of Psychology, University Center for Psychological Services and Research, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico; Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Research Institute, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; Institute for Psychological Research and Department of Psychology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico |
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Abstract: | This study evaluates the initial efficacy of the Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for Puerto Rican preschool children aged 4–6 years with a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), combined or predominantly hyperactive type, and significant behavior problems. Thirty-two families were randomly assigned to PCIT ( n =20) or a 3.5-month waiting-list condition (WL; n =12). Participants from both groups completed pretreatment and posttreatment assessments. Outcome measures included child's ADHD symptoms and behavior problems, parent or family functioning, and parents' satisfaction with treatment. ANCOVAs with pretreatment measures entered as covariates were significant for all posttreatment outcomes, except mother's depression, and in the expected direction ( p <.01). Mothers reported a highly significant reduction in pretreatment hyperactivity and inattention and less aggressive and oppositional-defiant behaviors, conduct problems assessed as problematic, parenting stress associated with their child's behavior, and an increase in the use of adequate parenting practices. For the WL group, there were no clinically significant changes in any measure. Treatment gains obtained after treatment were maintained at a 3.5-month follow-up assessment. PCIT seems to be an efficacious intervention for Puerto Rican families who have young children with significant behavior problems. |
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Keywords: | PCIT ADHD Preschool Children Parent Training Latino Families |
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