An Open Trial of a Brief Engagement Program for Caregivers of Children with ADHD

ABSTRACTThis open trial evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of Bootcamp for ADHD (BC-ADHD), a novel, four-session, group intervention designed to prepare caregivers as informed consumers to engage in multimodal evidence-based treatments (EBTs) for ADHD. Participants were 59 primary caregivers (85% biologic mothers) of children recently diagnosed with ADHD within a co-located, subspecialty pediatric clinic (ages 5–11; 73% male). Results indicated BC-ADHD was feasible to deliver, as evidenced by high levels of program usability (i.e. content and process fidelity), and caregiver behavioral engagement (M attendance = 88%; M homework adherence = 2.95 homework, SD = 1.15, 0–4 range). Families were also very satisfied (M = 6.06, 1–7 range). At post-treatment, BC-ADHD resulted in increases in caregiver empowerment and acceptability of behavioral treatment and reductions in concerns about both behavioral (adverse effects and feasibility) and medication (adverse effects) treatments (absolute Cohen’s d = 0.27 to 0.35). At 6-month follow-up, effects were sustained for increases in caregiver empowerment and for reductions in concerns about both behavioral and medication treatments (absolute ds = 0.36 to 0.40). Sleeper effects were observed for increased medication acceptability and decreased affiliate stigma (absolute ds = 0.26 to 0.29). Child impairment was also reduced at follow-up (d = -0.58). The percentage of caregivers who initiated behavior therapy (Kendall’s w = 0.63) or medication (Kendall’s w = 0.15) increased from baseline to 6-month follow-up. These findings provide initial support for BC-ADHD as a promising engagement program to foster positive caregiver attitudes and initiation of EBTs. Disclosure statementNo potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).Additional informationFundingThis work was supported by internal funding from the Institut du Savoir Montfort (ISM). We are grateful to the families who participated in this study and to pediatricians who provided referrals. The researchers also extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Jennifer Betkowski (1977-2018) for the training and consultation she has provided to them in motivational interviewing.