Family Variables Influencing the Social Validity of Telepractice in Early Childhood Intervention

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Family Variables Influencing the Social Validity of Telepractice in Early Childhood Intervention
Language: English
Authors: Gabriel Martínez-Rico (ORCID 0000-0003-0140-5512), Pau García-Grau (ORCID 0000-0002-6790-9089), Margarita Cañadas (ORCID 0000-0002-5496-322X), Rómulo J. González-García (ORCID 0000-0002-0331-4908)
Source: Exceptional Children. 2026 92(3):286-304.
Availability: SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 19
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Early Intervention, Parent Background, Educational Attainment, Technological Literacy, Validity, Family (Sociological Unit), Family Role, Client Characteristics (Human Services), Telecommunications, Foreign Countries, Young Children, Parents, Program Effectiveness
Geographic Terms: Spain
DOI: 10.1177/00144029251382565
ISSN: 0014-4029
2163-5560
Abstract: The use of telepractice in early childhood intervention has increased considerably in recent years. It is necessary, therefore, to examine its social validity in order to improve services and meet the needs of families. Determining relevant family variables influencing social validity allows practitioners to ensure their practices are based on socially meaningful and valid processes. We examined the influence of family-level variables through a multiple mediation model with: (a) child and adult age and mother's education level as predictors; (b) family role during sessions and technology skills as mediators; and (c) social validity of telepractice and the focus on family needs as dependent variables. We examined direct, indirect, and total effects through path analysis, as well as the joint effect of both mediators on social validity appraisals and the scores on focus on family needs. Overall, good perception of social validity of telepractice was found. No differences in social validity scores among telepractice modalities or eligibility criteria were found. Higher social validity was associated with greater focus on family needs, a more active role during sessions, better technology skills, and younger children and adults. Higher mother's educational level was related to having an active role in telepractice sessions and perceiving the intervention to be more focused on their needs. Addressing family needs is a priority for telepractice in early childhood intervention. Deciding with families the telepractice modality that could fit best their needs, as well as considering a hybrid approach, could help programs support their families more effectively.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1499976
Database: ERIC
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