Expanding the implementation of virtual parent-led peer support groups for parents of children and adolescents with eating disorders: a convergent mixed methods study

BackgroundParenting a child with an eating disorder (ED) while also navigating the healthcare system can be complex and overwhelming. Preliminary research indicates that parent-led peer support could be a promising avenue to ease this burden. This study examined the expanding implementation of virtual parent-led peer-support groups (vPLPSGs) for parents of children with EDs.MethodsA convergent mixed methods design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the vPLPSG intervention and success of its implementation. Parents of children who had recovered from an ED, or parent peer support providers (PPSPs), were trained to lead vPLPSGs for parents of children currently ill with an ED. Groups occurred biweekly across two study waves, totalling 12 months. Parents completed measures of caregiver burden, caregiver needs, and caregiver confidence before and after attending vPLPSGs over a three-month period. PPSPs completed weekly ratings of fidelity and pre- and post-implementation measures of readiness for change, attitudes towards evidence-based practice, and perceptions of the effectiveness of the principles guiding this intervention. Using qualitative methods, PPSPs and parents participated in a focus group and individual semi-structured interviews, respectively.ResultsAt post-intervention, parents (n = 35) reported decreased caregiver burden (MD=-4.69; p = 0.050), an increase in met information and support needs (MD = 5.60; p < 0.001), and increased confidence to support their child with an ED (MD = 8.09; p < 0.01). Qualitative data indicated that parents reported vPLPSGs as a positive, supportive experience. PPSPs (n = 8) experienced a decrease in PPSPs’ attitudes towards evidence-based practices (MD=-0.54; p < 0.01). Around half (50.5%) of the fidelity ratings met the pre-determined criterion (80%). PPSPs gave overall positive qualitative reports of their experiences facilitating vPLPSGs.ConclusionsIn this expanded vPLPSG intervention implemented across Canada, the program demonstrated effectiveness in improving parent outcomes and supporting PPSPs’ readiness, attitudes, and perceived fit for the intervention. Both parents and PPSPs found the intervention acceptable and meaningful, and PPSPs demonstrated fidelity to the model. Parent-led peer support may be a useful adjunct to traditional pediatric ED care. Further research is needed to explore the implementation of vPLPSGs across diverse healthcare settings and demographic groups.