Learning Through Play (LTP) in My Own Way Plus CBT

Feasibility Trial of Learning Through Play (LTP) in My Own Way Plus CBT A Parent-Based Intervention for Depressed Mothers With ID Children

Aim of the study is to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of LTP in My Own Way Plus with depressed mothers of ID children.

Having a child with a chronic medical problem or an intellectual disability increases anxiety and depression in parents. There is some growing evidence that families of ID children are able to meet the challenges. The purpose of the present study is to adapt LTP in my own way plus to test its acceptability and determine if it improves mothers knowledge about their child development and reduce their level of distress.

The study has two phases: quantitative phase and qualitative phase. Quantitative phase: A single blind randomised controlled trial in school settings in Karachi Pakistan.

Objectives:

1. Help mothers cope better with their depression.
2. Teach mothers play activities that will stimulate their children's development and improve mother-child interaction.

Qualitative Phase: This will help to determine acceptability of the intervention and identify perceived mechanisms of change and any barriers and facilitators to LTP in my own Plus intervention. In-depth digitally recorded interviews and focus groups will be conducted with the parents and teachers to understand their beliefs, views, and feelings about caring for ID children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Mothers of ID children aged 3 to 6 years, screened positive for depression
• Ability to complete a baseline assessment
• Ability to communicate in Urdu or English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have a diagnosed serious medical or psychiatric condition
• Mothers of children with other medical illness
• Temporary residents unlikely to be available for follow-up