Intensive Behavioral Intervention, a family affair? Study on mother’s perception of behavior therapists
Since 2003, Rehabilitation Centers (CRDITED) provide Intensive Behavioral Intervention (IBI) for children with autism. Current knowledge concerning the relationship between mothers and behavior therapists in IBI remains very limited, but suggests that mothers could benefit from the support offered by behavior therapists. This article aims to explore: 1) the mother’s general perception of their relationships with behavior therapists, and 2) mother’s perceptions of the roles played by behavior therapists over themselves and their families. The semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 mothers of children with autism who received the IBI. The results of the first analysis revealed that mothers developed an emotional bond with behavior therapists. This attachment may be related to the personal and professional characteristics of the behavior therapists that mothers appreciated. The results of the second analysis have suggested that behavior therapists play different roles with mothers and their families. The main role emerging from the analysis of the interviews is the “classic” role that consists in working with the child. According to what was said by the mothers, behavior therapists were also required to guide mother’s interventions with their children and to provide information on autism and the IBI. Some behavior therapists also provided emotional support to mothers. Thus, it can be concluded that the behavior therapists are not only beneficial for the child with autism but also for the whole family.