A Pre-Experimental Evaluation of a 9-Session Training Program with Latinx Parents of Children with Autism

Abstract

The purpose of this pre-experimental study was to detect the degree of improvement associated with confidence, psychological flexibility, and mental health among Latinx parents in a parent-directed training program. Participants were 55 Latinx parents who participated in a 9-session training program. Analyses of pre-post data contrasts on the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), and Parenting Tasks Checklist (PTC) did not indicate statistically significant improvements. However, analyses indicated clinically significant changes for many Latinx parents. Approximately 1 out 3 Latinx parents experienced clinically significant improvements as related to parenting confidence but not within the clinically significant range. Approximately 1 out 5 Latinx parents experienced clinically significant improvements in psychological flexibility but not within the clinically significant range. Nearly 1 out of 2 Latinx parents experienced clinically significant improvements in depressive symptoms. We provide clinical implications for counselors and related helping professionals.