Online Behavioral Parenting Interventions for Disruptive Behavioral Disorders: A PRISMA Based Systematic Review of Clinical Trials.

Abstract

Behavioral parenting interventions (BPIs) are efficacious, evidence-based interventions for disruptive behavioral disorders in children. Technological advances have seen online adaptations of BPIs further increase efficacy and expand program reach. This systematic review examined the treatment outcomes of online BPIs. Our secondary aim was to examine which components of online BPIs are associated with beneficial child outcomes. Electronic databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials of online BPIs for children with disruptive behavioral difficulties published between 2000 and 2020. Ten studies, reporting on nine different interventions, met inclusion criteria. The review indicated online BPIs are a viable treatment for disruptive behavioral disorders with nine of ten reporting significant improvements post-treatment. Effective interventions had clearly defined program structure and included content based on operant learning principles. Future research would benefit from greater detail when reporting intervention content, and regular assessment of progress through treatment against the delivery of specific program components.