A virtuous circle: Stakeholder perspectives of a short-term intensive parent training programme delivered within the context of routine services for autism in China

Although the evidence of parent training programmes for families of autistic children has continued to grow, little is known about the experiences and perceptions of key stakeholders, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This qualitative study was part of a larger real-world evaluation of a short-term intensive parent training programme in routine services delivered to caregivers of autistic children aged 3–6 years in China. It aimed to provide insights into programme acceptability, reasons for participant involvement, and factors related to programme implementation. Fourteen caregivers participated in the in-depth interviews, and two focus group discussions were conducted with eight practitioners. Data were analysed using a combination of data- and theory-driven approaches. Findings point to the needs in low autism resource settings for substantial practice and feedback; group support; individualised coaching; more autism-related knowledge, resources and activities for children and extended family members; and organisational support to practitioners. Further research is suggested to address the recommendations and assess their effectiveness empirically. LAY ABSTRACT: While much knowledge about autism derives from high-income countries, most people diagnosed with autism reside in low- and middle-income countries, where little is documented in terms of local interventions. This is also true for parent training programmes for families of autistic children. An evaluation was conducted to understand the effects of a short-term intensive parent training programme delivered in routine services for families of autistic children in China. This study reported results from the in-depth interviews with 14 participating caregivers and group discussions with eight group leaders. The interviews and discussions were aimed at learning (1) to what extent the programme components were deemed acceptable, (2) what affected caregivers’ attendance and engagement in the programme and (3) what affected group leaders’ delivery of the programme. Findings suggested that future parent training programmes provide adequate opportunities for caregivers to practice and receive feedback; group support; coaching experience tailored to individual challenges; more autism-related knowledge, resources and activities for children and extended family members; and organisational support to group leaders. This study highlights the value of qualitative research and points to the need for more empirical studies to address the recommendations, so that research findings can be better utilised to promote practices.