Distance delivery of a parent-implemented language intervention for young boys with fragile X syndrome

Abstract

Background In addition to significant cognitive delays, boys with fragile X syndrome display phenotypic characteristics that include delays in language, inattention, social anxiety, and escape-maintained challenging behaviors. Despite these challenges, families affected by fragile X syndrome often have limited access to center-based intervention programs. Methods The present study utilized a multiple baseline design across participants to examine the preliminary effectiveness of a 12-week, parent-implemented spoken language intervention for three 5- to 7-year-old boys with fragile X syndrome. The goal of the intervention was to teach the biological mothers of each boy to use a set of verbally responsive language support strategies while participating in shared book reading activities with her child. All aspects of the intervention, including pre- and post-treatment measures, were delivered into the family’s home via distance video teleconferencing. Results Results from this study provide preliminary support for the efficacy of this parent-implemented language intervention approach by demonstrating generalized improvements in both targeted maternal strategy use and measures of child spoken language. Conclusions The present study expands upon prior language intervention research utilizing distance delivery of services for families affected by fragile X syndrome. Additionally, the study provides early support for the feasibility of collecting pre- and post-treatment assessments at a distance.