Effectiveness of Training Programs for Caregivers of Children With Autism: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

<h4>Purpose</h4>To synthesize current research that evaluated caregiver training programs for children with autism.<h4>Method</h4>The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement was followed to conduct this systematic review. A literature search was performed using MeSH terms in the following databases: PubMed (<i>n</i> = 239), PsycINFO (<i>n</i> = 31), CINAHL (<i>n</i> = 390), and Scopus (<i>n</i> = 5,336). After screening and quality assessment review, data from a total of 24 articles were extracted for inclusion in the literature synthesis.<h4>Results</h4>Of 24 studies reviewed, 22 reported a positive impact on caregiver knowledge, children's behavior, and social communication skills despite variation in training modalities and duration.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Caregiver training programs that integrated individualized instruction using applied behavioral analysis were found to be most effective in improving caregiver knowledge and skills, child behavior, and communication skills. Psychiatric-mental health nurses may use these findings to coordinate training programs or inform caregivers about this resource.