Introduction Feeding difficulties are highly prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and represent a significant source of family stress. Although in-person behavioral interventions have demonstrated effectiveness, access to them is limited. Parent-mediated interventions delivered via telehealth are emerging as a promising alternative, although evidence remains scarce. Objective To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a parent-mediated behavioral intervention delivered via telehealth for feeding difficulties in children with ASD. Method A prospective single-arm pilot study with a pre–post design and follow-ups at 3, 6, and 12 months was conducted. Participants were 26 children with ASD, aged 3–8 years, with clinically significant feeding difficulties. The 8-week intervention was based on applied behavior analysis principles and included psychoeducation, training in behavioral strategies, and individualized follow-up via videoconference. Measures included parental adherence, parental satisfaction, feeding behaviors, variety of accepted foods, parental stress, and family quality of life. Results The intervention showed moderate-to-high levels of parental adherence. Families reported high satisfaction and good acceptability of the telehealth format. Significant reductions in food selectivity were observed, along with a progressive increase in the variety of accepted foods, particularly at 6 months. No significant changes were found in parental stress or family quality of life. Conclusions This pilot study supports the feasibility and acceptability of a parent-mediated behavioral feeding intervention delivered via telehealth, with preliminary positive effects on food selectivity. Controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Lugo‐Marín et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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