Technology-Enhanced Parent-Child Interaction Therapy: Overcoming Barriers and Improving Engagement in ASD Treatment (Published)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, presenting significant challenges for families seeking effective therapeutic interventions. Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) has demonstrated efficacy in improving behavioral outcomes and parent-child relationships in ASD populations. However, traditional in-person delivery methods face substantial barriers including geographic accessibility, cost constraints, scheduling difficulties, and family stress factors that limit engagement and treatment completion. This systematic review examines the effectiveness of technology-enhanced PCIT approaches in overcoming traditional barriers and improving engagement among families of children with ASD. The study analyzes recent evidence from 2021-2025 regarding digital health technologies, telehealth platforms, artificial intelligence applications, and virtual reality interventions in PCIT delivery. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using systematic search strategies across multiple databases, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published between 2021-2025. The analysis employed a comparative framework examining traditional versus technology-enhanced PCIT approaches, barrier identification and solution mapping, and engagement outcome measurements. Technology-enhanced PCIT demonstrates significant improvements in accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and parent engagement compared to traditional delivery methods. Key findings include a 45% increase in treatment completion rates, reduced geographic barriers for rural families, and enhanced parent satisfaction scores. Digital health technologies, including AI-assisted therapy tools and wearable devices, show promise in augmenting therapeutic strategies and providing real-time feedback to families. Technology-enhanced PCIT represents a paradigm shift in ASD intervention delivery, offering solutions to longstanding barriers while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. Implementation requires careful consideration of digital equity, clinician training, and quality assurance protocols. Future research should focus on optimizing technology integration, addressing digital divide issues, and developing standardized protocols for virtual PCIT delivery.
Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, barriers to treatment, parent engagement, parent-child interaction therapy, technology- enhanced therapy