| Abstract: Engaging parents as active participants in their children’s behavioral intervention has been emphasized from the earliest research in ABA (Lovass, Koegel, Simmons, & Long, 1973), particularly as it pertains to enhancing generalization and maintenance. Numerous studies have therefore focused on behavioral parent training (Matson, Mahon, & Matson, 2009; Schultz & Stichter, 2011), resulting in commonly accepted practices. Unfortunately, even with effective training, parental adherence - and engagement in treatment in general - continue to be a challenge (Allen & Warzak, 2000; Moore & Symons, 2011).
There are a variety of factors that have been identified as potential contributors to parent involvement, including: a) logistical issues such as competing priorities, practicality of interventions and b) parental stress and motivation (Raulston, Hieneman, Caraway, Pennefather, & Bhana, 2019; Solish & Perry, 2008). In this presentation, the author will summarize the research relevant to parent involvement, providing illustrations from recent studies (Durand, Hieneman, Clarke, & Zona, 2013; Hieneman, Raulston, Pennefather, & Caraway, in press) and provide practical guidance regarding how to more effectively engage parents and other family members in ABA. |