Parent–Child Interaction Therapy With Deaf Parents and Their Hearing Child

Abstract

There are few proven effective treatments such as Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for use with deaf parents and their children, even though it is likely that the prevalence rate for disruptive behavior problems including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) are similar to those reported for all U.S. children. Medication and behavioral therapy involving parents comprise the cornerstone for ADHD/ODD management, with PCIT endorsed as one of the most effective interventions available for children aged 2 to 7 years. This case study presents the implementation of PCIT with deaf parents and their 7-year-old hearing son with ADHD/ODD, with the help of a certified interpreter and readily available video technology. Findings from this case report documented PCIT as a promising treatment option for use with individuals who are deaf.