title: A pilot study of parent training in young children with autism spectrum disorders and disruptive behavior.
abstract: Guidance on effective interventions for disruptive behavior in young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is limited. We present feasibility and initial efficacy data on a structured parent training program for 16 children (ages 3-6) with ASD and disruptive behavior. The 6-month intervention included 11 Core and up to 2 Optional sessions. The program was acceptable to parents as evidenced by an attendance rate of 84 % for Core sessions. Fourteen of 16 families completed the treatment. An independent clinician rated 14 of 16 subjects as much improved or very much improved at Week 24. Using last observation carried forward, the parent-rated Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Irritability subscale decreased 54 % from 16.00 (SD = 9.21) to 7.38 (SD = 6.15).
authors.affiliation: Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA. karen.bearss@emory.edu
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Bearss
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Handen
authors.forename: Tristram
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Lawrence
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Scahill
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D019958:Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D015897:Comorbidity; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome