Preliminary efficacy of a Web-based family problem-solving treatment program for adolescents with traumatic brain injury.

OBJECTIVE

Preliminary report of the efficacy of a Web-based treatment program to improve adolescent and family psychosocial functioning following traumatic brain injury (TBI).

PARTICIPANTS

Families of 9 adolescents with TBI (2 severe and 7 moderate) injured less than 24 months ago participated in this study.

INTERVENTION: A Web-based family treatment program designed to enhance family problem solving and adjustment, as well as reduce adolescent behavioral and social problems that are common sequelae of moderate-to-severe TBI was used as intervention. The program consisted of 10 core sessions and up to 4 supplemental sessions, each consisting of self-guided Web exercises followed by a videoconference therapy session.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were found in parent-reported adolescent internalizing behaviors, self-reported adolescent depressive symptoms, parental depression, and parent-adolescent conflict. Effect sizes were in the medium-to-high range for these same contrasts. Exploratory analyses suggested that providing audio with the Web site may enhance some outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides preliminary evidence of the feasibility and efficacy of family-centered online intervention for improving adolescent and family adaptation following pediatric TBI.