JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Although evidence-based treatments have been developed for childhood behavior problems, many families encounter barriers to treatment access and completion (e.g., local availability of services, transportation, cost, and perceived stigma). Smartphone-based applications offer a cost-efficient method to deliver content to families.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to describe the study protocol for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a smartphone-based application designed to reduce disruptive behaviors in young children.

Methods:

The current RCT evaluates the effectiveness of the UseIt! mobile health (mHealth) system as both standalone and coach-assisted interventions. A nationwide sample of parents of children ages 5 to 8 years with disruptive behaviors (N = 324 dyads) will be randomly assigned to the standalone app (n = 108), the coach-assisted app (n = 108), or the control app (n = 108). The outcome assessments (post-treatment and 6-month follow-up) include measures of app usage, parenting knowledge, and symptom reduction.

Results:

Recruitment of study participants began in December of 2022 and is ongoing. Data collection is projected to be completed by late 2026.

Conclusions:

The current study aims to address a gap in the literature regarding the feasibility, effectiveness, and utility of a smartphone-based application that includes a coach-assisted arm. Digital therapeutics have the potential to enhance the reach and scalability of skills-based psychosocial interventions. Findings from the current study will advance scientific knowledge and have implications for clinical practice. Clinical Trial: ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT05647772.