(PS5-15) Exploring Factors Related to Parent-child Relational Stress and Response to Brief, Virtual Behavioral Parent Training

Abstract Text: Prior research supports behavioral parent training (BPT) programs’ effectiveness in improving parent outcomes and dyadic improvements (e.g., reduction in parent-child relational stress). However, there remain significant gaps in access and engagement with BPT. Logistical barriers, financial stressors, and family stress are known barriers to access and engagement in BPT. To increase accessibility of BPT, we adapted a BPT intervention to be brief (i.e., 6, 1-hour sessions) and delivered through telehealth. However, it is unclear if reductions in parent-child relational stress from pre- to post-BPT will be evident in this accessible BPT format. This study aims to examine whether there are reductions in parent-child relational stress from pre- to post- brief, group-based BPT intervention delivered via telehealth to caregivers (n=43) of 3- to 7-year-olds at an outpatient behavioral health clinic and a Head Start program. We hypothesize that there will be a significant reduction in parent-child relational stress from pre- to post-BPT. Additionally, we will explore parent-level factors related to parent-child relational stress (e.g., parenting self-efficacy, general parent stress), which are understudied in BPT clinical trials. Primary caregivers completed the Parenting Stress Index – Short Form to assess parent-child relational stress, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale to measure general parent stress, and the Parenting Sense of Competence – Self Efficacy measure to assess parenting self-efficacy. Preliminary correlations between parent-child relational stress, general parent stress, and parenting self-efficacy revealed that higher parent-child relational stress was related to lower levels of parenting self-efficacy (r = -.43; p =.011) and higher levels of general parent stress (r = .43; p = .011). Paired samples t-test revealed a significant reduction in parent-child relational stress from pre- to post-BPT t(29) = 3.08, p = .005 with a mean reduction of 2.87. These preliminary findings suggest brief, telehealth BPT continues to be effective in reducing parent-child relational stress. Future research could explore the dissemination and implementation of BPT programs adapted to more accessible. Clinical implications will be discussed in the poster.