The impacts of home-based early behavioural intervention programmes on families of children with autism

Background In the UK, Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention [EIBI] programmes typically are conducted within the homes of children with autism. Despite evidence for their effectiveness in producing appreciable developmental gains in children with autism, a concern expressed about EIBI programmes is that stressful effects from the high levels of demand they place on family resources could undermine their effectiveness [The Effectiveness of Early Interventions for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A report for the DfES South East Regional Special Educational Needs Partnership. SERSEN Website, 2004]. This study investigates the positive impacts and the stressors experienced by families running EIBI programmes. Method Sixteen parents from nine different families participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews on their experiences of running a home-based EIBI programme. Data were analysed using the Grounded Theory process. Results Positive and negative impacts of the programmes were reported. Analysis indicated that sources of support obtained through the programmes' benefits offset sources of stress through the programmes' demands. Conclusions The interaction between programme demands and benefits and the resources available to each family strongly influences the impact of running a home-based EIBI programme.