Parent-based language intervention programs to facilitate language development in children with developmental language disorder : a meta-analysis [Cochrane protocol]

Abstract

Background: Limited evidence is present for parent-based language intervention programs targeting on children with developmental language disorder. Providing evidence through a systematic review and meta-analysis would help clinician justify whether this approach would be a suitable treatment option. Aims: The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis is to examine the evidence for the effectiveness of parent-based language intervention program in facilitating children’s language development when compared to no-treatment and direct clinician-based therapy, and to evaluate parents’ attitudes towards parent-based language intervention programs. Methods & Procedures: A systematic electronic search of 15 databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, ERIC, was conducted. Studies were critically appraised to examine quality of included studies. Findings were categorized by child and parent outcomes. Extracted data were combined and meta-analyses were conducted. Outcomes & Results: Combined evidence showed that parent-based language intervention programs were more effective than no treatment and as effective as direct clinician-based therapy in terms of facilitating children’s language ability and changing parents’ interaction styles with their children. Conclusions & Implications: Parent-based language intervention programs are one of the possible effective treatment options for clinicians and parents to consider. Further research to investigate how parents implement these programs is needed, along with stronger evidence.