BACKGROUND
Parenting programs have proven effective in improving the behavior of children with ADHD. However, barriers such as job and transportation constraints hinder parents from attending face-to-face therapy appointments. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to develop and test the feasibility of a social media-based parenting program for parents of toddlers with ADHD, considering both the pre-existing challenges faced by parents and the additional barriers imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
The study employed a five-stage design thinking process, encompassing empathizing with parents, defining their needs, ideating innovative solutions, prototyping the program, and testing it with parents. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 parents of children with ADHD to understand their unique needs and values. Brainstorming techniques were employed to generate creative ideas, leading to the creation of a prototype that was tested with 32 parents. Participants' engagement with the program was measured, and post-training feedback was collected to assess its effectiveness.
RESULTS
Parents of toddlers with ADHD encounter specific challenges, including managing impulsive behavior and difficulties in emotion regulation. The online parenting program was delivered through the LINE application and consisted of 7 modules addressing topics related to ADHD management and effective parenting strategies. The program exhibited a high completion rate, with 84% of participants successfully finishing it. Provider-participant interaction peaked during the first week and gradually decreased over time. Qualitative feedback indicated that the program was feasible, accessible, and well-received by participants. The LINE application was found to be convenient and helpful, and participants preferred content delivery once or twice a week, expressing acceptance for various content formats.
CONCLUSIONS
This study emphasizes the significance of adopting a human-centered design approach to develop parenting programs that cater to the unique needs and values of parents. By leveraging social media platforms, such as LINE, a parenting program can overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other constraints faced by parents. It offers a viable and feasible option for supporting parents of children with ADHD, with the potential for customization and widespread dissemination beyond the pandemic context.
CLINICALTRIAL