AI-Based Reflective Parenting Simulation for Parents of Autistic Children

A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating an AI-Based Reflective Parenting Simulation for Parents of Autistic Children

This randomized controlled trial evaluates an AI-based parental simulation designed to support reflective parenting, emotional regulation, and parent-child communication among parents of autistic children aged 3 to 12 years. A total of 140 parents will be recruited through an external online survey platform and randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will complete baseline questionnaires, engage with the AI-based simulation, and then complete post-intervention measures. The control group will complete baseline and post-assessment measures before receiving access to the simulation.

The study examines the use of an AI-based parental simulation as a learning and reflective tool for parents of autistic children aged 3 to 12 years. The simulation is designed to allow parents to practice responses to emotionally challenging parent-child situations, with an emphasis on reflective functioning, emotional regulation, playfulness, and supportive parent-child communication.

Participants will be recruited through an external online survey platform and will provide informed consent before participation. After completing baseline questionnaires, participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. Participants in the intervention group will complete the AI-based simulation and then complete post-intervention measures. Participants in the control group will complete post-assessment measures before receiving access to the simulation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• - Parent or primary caregiver of an autistic child aged 3 to 12 years.
• Child has a parent-reported diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Parent is 18 years of age or older.
• Parent is able to read and complete questionnaires in Hebrew.
• Parent has access to an internet-connected device and is able to complete the online study procedures.
• Parent provides informed consent to participate.

Exclusion Criteria:

• - Parent does not provide informed consent.
• Parent is not the parent or primary caregiver of an autistic child aged 3 to 12 years.
• Parent is unable to complete the online questionnaires or the AI-based reflective parenting simulation.
• Duplicate, incomplete, or low-quality responses that do not meet study quality criteria.