Published online Apr 19, 2025. doi: 10.5498/wjp.v15.i4.102267
Revised: January 19, 2025
Accepted: February 5, 2025
Published online: April 19, 2025
Processing time: 162 Days and 9.3 Hours
The study by Lu et al explores the integration of remote family psychological support courses (R-FPSC) with traditional caregiver-mediated interventions (CMI) in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Conducted as a single-blinded randomized controlled trial involving 140 parents of children with ASD, the research highlights the crucial role of parental mental health in optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Results indicate that the addition of R-FPSC significantly enhances parental competence and reduces stress more effectively than CMI alone. Despite improvements in parenting stress and competence, no significant differences were noted in anxiety and depression symptoms between the groups, suggesting that while R-FPSC strengthens parenting skills, its impact on mood disorders requires further investigation. The findings advocate for the inclusion of remote psychological support in family interventions as a feasible and cost-effective strategy, broadening access to essential resources and improving both parental and child outcomes. The study emphasizes the need for future research to evaluate the long-term impacts of such interventions and to explore the specific mechanisms through which parental mental health improvements affect child development.
Core Tip: Lu et al's study demonstrates that integrating remote psychological support with traditional interventions for autism significantly boosts parental competence and reduces stress, although its effect on mood disorders is limited. This approach highlights the need for family-centered care and suggests that remote support can enhance autism care by providing accessible resources that benefit both parents and children.