Development and Effects of a Relationship Enhancement Program for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Parents Based on Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT)

Objectives: This study aimed to develop and validate a relationship enhancement program for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their parents based on Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT).Methods: Domestic and international research data were collected through a literature review, followed by preliminary research and expert content validity verification to develop the final program. The study participants were 15 parents of preschool children with ASD (experimental group, n = 7; control group, n = 8). The experimental group participated in 10 weekly 60-90-minute sessions. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative research was employed.Results: Quantitative analysis showed significant improvements in parent-child relationships, parental reflection, and parent-child interaction behaviors. Qualitative analysis revealed positive outcomes, including parental insights into parent-child relationships, changes in interaction patterns, a new understanding of play, positive changes in children, and parental self-healing elements. Program effects persisted for more than one month after completion.Conclusion: This study is significant in that it promotes children's development through parent-child interaction via parents' internal changes. Additionally, a child-centered, relationship-focused program was developed for young children with ASD. This represents a concrete intervention that is applicable in home settings. However, follow-up support measures are needed to address non-random sampling and demographic imbalances and establish standards for necessary environments and qualifications for program implementation.