Real-World Data From a Group Parent Management Training Program Enhanced Using Artificial Intelligence: Qualitative Study

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: Not applicable for qualitative study

• Effect Size: Net Promoter Score of 76.92 (excellent satisfaction)

• Primary Outcome: Caregiver experiences and satisfaction with hybrid PMT program

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: 95.1% positive comments about AI agent; 36.1% valued useful strategies theme

• Confidence Interval: Not reported

Clinical Application

High feasibility demonstrated with online delivery model and positive user acceptance Relevant for Australian telehealth initiatives and rural/remote access programs. Could complement existing PBS-funded psychology services and align with RACGP digital health guidelines Caregivers of children aged 3-14 years with disruptive behavior problems, particularly in resource-limited settings

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Parent management training (PMT) is an evidence-based intervention for children with disruptive behavior problems. However, access to care is often limited by cost, availability of clinicians, scheduling, and transportation barriers. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into group PMT may improve accessibility, personalization, and adherence, while preserving therapeutic quality. OBJECTIVE: This study explored caregivers' experiences with a hybrid PMT program that combined live therapist-led group sessions with asynchronous support from Pat, an AI conversational agent designed to augment the therapists' support to caregivers. METHODS: A total of 88 caregivers of children aged 3-14 years (mean 7.98, SD 2.45 years) from Argentina and Paraguay participated in eight weekly online group sessions led by human therapists and supplemented by Pat. Caregivers were asked to provide the net promoter score (NPS) and their perceived contribution of their experience in remote group sessions and with Pat. Caregiver perspectives were analyzed using thematic analysis by multiple coders with consensus and interrater reliability assessment. RESULTS: The average NPS was 76.92, indicating excellent satisfaction. Regarding participants' perceptions of the overall program, the most frequent theme was useful strategies (73/202, 36.1%), reflecting the value placed on clear, structured, and practical tools to address everyday parenting challenges. Most comments about Pat were positive (156/164, 95.1%), particularly highlighting its 24/7 accessibility and constant availability (69/164, 42.1%). Recommendations for improvement mainly focused on enhancing the user experience and incorporating additional functionalities. Regarding perceived contribution to progress, caregivers attributed, on average, 61% to Pat and 46% to the group sessions. CONCLUSIONS: Combining therapist-led PMT group sessions with AI support appears feasible, acceptable, and valued by caregivers and may expand reach without sacrificing quality. Overall, caregivers valued the useful strategies and the professional and peer support and reported positive changes. Regarding Pat, the most valued aspect is the constant and immediate support. This model integrates human expertise with the accessibility and continuity provided by AI, reducing barriers, such as time, cost, and clinician availability.

References

1. 1.Rivera-Cepeda, C. F., Pineda, B. S., Vaclavik, D., Bagner, D. M., Hardan, A. Y., Abadi, A., Mostovoy, K., & Bunge, E. L. (2026). Real-World Data From a Group Parent Management Training Program Enhanced Using Artificial Intelligence: Qualitative Study. JMIR Formative Research. https://doi.org/10.2196/91841