Abstract
Disruptive behavior disorders are the most common behavioral health referral for children. While numerous evidence-based behavioral parent training programs exist to ameliorate these problems, dissemination attempts have still fallen short of population need. Further, family barriers to treatment and low family retention rates have limited the effectiveness and reach of behavioral parent training programs. Technology-enhanced services and dissemination have been cited as potential solutions for increasing both parent training population reach and family engagement in services.
Parent–child interaction therapy (PCIT) lends itself naturally to the use of technology. Technology is already embedded in PCIT delivery as therapists live coach parent–child interactions from behind a one-way mirror or via live, secure video feed (in-office or home-based). The use of a live coaching model of treatment has led to innovations in dissemination, training, and supervision methods for training PCIT clinicians. The model has also led to advances in technology-based approaches to the delivery of PCIT and the augmentation of existing PCIT services. Within this chapter, we explore methods for how technology can expand the reach of PCIT. Specifically, we discuss technology-based PCIT training approaches and technologically enhanced delivery of services and consider future directions for other technologically driven formats of PCIT delivery or dissemination.