Chatbot intervention for caregivers of children with autism
Chatbot-based Positive Psychology Intervention to Promote Well-being in Caregivers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Feasibility Study
This study is testing whether a chatbot can help caregivers of children with autism feel less stressed and more positive about their lives.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Hong Kong Metropolitan University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06438120 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project evaluates the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a chatbot-based positive psychology intervention aimed at improving the well-being of caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The intervention focuses on positive psychological skills such as gratitude and optimism to help caregivers manage stress and depressive symptoms. By utilizing a convenient and low-cost chatbot platform, the study aims to provide accessible mental health support for caregivers. The primary goal is to assess how well this intervention promotes mental health and reduces stress among caregivers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are primary caregivers of primary-school-age children (6-11 years old) diagnosed with ASD who can communicate in Chinese.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently on regular psychotropic medications or have participated in similar interventions within the past year may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the mental well-being of caregivers, reducing stress and depressive symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of chatbot interventions in mental health is gaining traction, this specific approach targeting caregivers of children with ASD is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: Primary caregivers * (i) providing long-term care for the primary-school-age child (6-11 years old) diagnosed with ASD; * (ii) who are over 18 years old; * (iii) who have the ability to communicate and read in Chinese; * (iv) who have at least one mobile phone with an internet connection. Exclusion criteria: Primary caregivers * (i) who participate in a similar psychological intervention within one year; * (ii) currently on regular psychotropic medications.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Metropolitan University — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Wen Zhang, PhD
- Email: wwzhang@hkmu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852-3970-2945
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.