Evaluation of the social validity and implementation process of a psychoeducational program for parents of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The aim of this study was to assess the social validity and document the implementation of a psychoeducational program designed to support parents after their child's diagnosis, from both parents' and professionals' perspectives. A complete version (five workshops and five individual follow-ups) and a shortened version (five workshops only) of the program were evaluated. Parents filled in satisfaction questionnaires after every workshop and at the end of the program. Professionals who facilitated the program filled in a specially designed questionnaire to rate the quality of the program and of its implementation, the fidelity of implementation and the parents' responsiveness. In addition, video recordings of the workshops allowed an objective assessment of the fidelity of implementation. Attendance rates were high; parents were satisfied and felt they had made progress. Professionals evaluated positively the quality of the program and of its implementation, and felt parents were responsive. However, minor adaptations had to be made. The program has good social validity, which allowed easy and satisfying implementation, but it does require some flexibility. Overall, this study provides useful insight on the implementation process that may help clinical services to use this evidence-based program effectively.