The Impact of Maternal Depression on Internet-Parent–Child Interaction Therapy for Child Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Case Study

Conduct disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are highly comorbid, with an estimated prevalence rate of 51.5% for children between 2–17 years of age (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an empirically supported behavioral parent training program for children with disruptive behavior. PCIT research consistently demonstrates decreases in disruptive behaviors and increases in positive parenting strategies among families of young children with ADHD; however, PCIT has yet to become widely recognized as a treatment for ADHD. This case study presents the treatment of a 6-year-old boy with ADHD and severe behavior problems. The case was further impacted by the single mother’s depressive symptoms and internet delivery of PCIT during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from this case report documented an improvement in disruptive child behaviors and emotion regulation and increased positivity during parent–child interactions, despite worsening maternal depressive symptoms. This case study highlights the utility of PCIT to improve child disruptive behaviors and ADHD symptoms in the midst of several complicating factors.

[Interpreter-Aided Psychotherapy for Deaf and Hearing-Impaired Patients - a Systematic Review of Research and Recommendations for Psychotherapists with Normal Hearing and Sign Language Interpreters]

In Germany, deaf patients undergoing psychotherapy have the right to have the costs of a sign language interpreter covered by the insurance since 2001. The effectiveness of interpreter-aided psychotherapy worldwide is disputed. A systematic literature review was conducted on sign language interpreter-aided psychotherapy. Six scientific databases were searched. Two independent raters conducted a 2-step rating process. Out of 1,184 identified publications, 10 studies in German and English language were included. These 10 studies examined between 1 and 85 deaf patients (7-60 years) in different psychotherapeutic settings (8 ambulatory, 4 family therapy). Nine studies reported therapy success. Relevant knowledge (e. g. about culture of deaf people), attitudes (e. g. openness), abilities (e. g. sign language) and general conditions (e. g. declaration for professional secrecy, light conditions) were recommended for psychotherapists with normal hearing and sign language interpreters. Empirical data on psychotherapy with sign language interpreters is low and methodologically limited. The present study can be considered as a starting point for further research.