We collected data from online surveys completed by parents of children between the ages of 4-11. The overall aim of the study was to define the construct of helicopter parenting, linking this behavior to existing parenting styles, behaviors, and child outcomes. We found some interesting overlap of this behavior with parental accommodations, which are discussed in the anxiety literature. We have also used this dataset to understand accommodations that function within families of children with ADHD. We are collecting a second sample of parents this year in order to examine more specific parenting beliefs and behaviors involved in defining helicopter parenting.

Our lab has previously collected data on acceptability of BPT strategies using a sample of parents who have attended our 3-hour BPT introductory workshop. This work has examined variables that relate to parent use of strategies, such as acceptability based on cultural background and parenting values. This new study builds on this work, and will collect data on acceptability using brief strategy videos. Parents will answer pre-post questions related to acceptability and intent to use strategies, and we will examine how this relates to parenting beliefs (e.g., external vs. internal locus of control) and parenting values. We are currently collecting data in Fall 2022 - Spring 2023.

This study is a longitudinal research project purposed to determine the connection among parents’ behavioral intentions (i.e., attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control) and the intended and actual use of parent management strategies (e.g., time-out). The goal of this study is to acquire a more comprehensive understanding of the beliefs that impact parent behavior and what specific beliefs make the most unique and significant contribution to parent behavior. With this understanding, it is our hope to help clinicians better predict and change parent behavior through behavioral parent training. 

This study is occurring in collaboration with the Texas Children’s Center for Children and Women. We will work with colleagues at TCHP to collect and analyze a sample of data from two large centers to understand utilization patterns related to BPT. We hope to understand factors that affect the referral process, as well as how the referral process impacts retention or outcomes in BPT. Data collection will likely begin in fall.

Behavior management Smartphone App

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We have developed a behavioral parent training treatment app used with parents of children receiving medication management for ADHD. The app provides parents with a behavioral intervention program delivered through a mobile device. Parents have access to weekly lesson videos, homework assignments, and handouts. They also can communicate with the therapist through the app. This study collected a pilot sample prior to the pandemic and will collect an additional sample Fall 2022-Spring 2023.

Without a Paddle is an online intervention to help parents work through conflict with their children ages 11-14 using OARS within the problem-solving process. The self-directed intervention consists of five sessions for the parent to complete on a weekly basis. The initial pilot study aimed to assess feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, and we have begun to examine preliminary efficacy outcomes. Additional collection of the sample is ongoing in 2022-2023.

This is a review paper which defines a framework for evidence-based culturally-informed assessment in BPT, and provides specific culturally-informed measures/methods and examples of implementation.