Cultural adaptation of ACT to support caregivers of autistic Latino children: A pilot study

Abstract

Providers working with families of autistic children have a shared responsibility to ensure access to culturally responsive and linguistically appropriate services for Latino caregivers. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a promising intervention for Autism parents. However, research on ACT for Latino caregivers is absent. This small pilot study indicated that a brief, group-based, culturally adapted ACT protocol may enhance the wellbeing of Latino mothers. The 2-day intervention was associated with significant reductions in anxiety, depression and psychological inflexibility for all parents, with medium to large effect sizes. Methodological factors significantly limit conclusions, however, the study offers the foundation for a program of research centered on the promotion of thriving in Latino families with autistic children, and how to best integrate guidelines for culturally adapted practice with CBS approaches. The study also highlights the importance of centering social justice as a key component of what it means to be effective contextual behavioral scientists and the need for systemic action to address current barriers to care for Latino families.