Examining the Social Validity of a Caregiver-Implemented Naturalistic Communication Intervention Adapted for Latinx Caregivers and their Children

Abstract

This thesis examines whether the goals, procedures, and outcomes of an adapted caregiver-implemented naturalistic communication intervention (CI-NCI) were socially valid for use with Latinx caregivers of Mexican descent living in the Pacific Northwestern United States. Existing literature provides strong evidence for use of CI-NCIs with white, Anglo-American caregivers; however, limited evidence exists as to whether CI-NCIs are socially valid when used with Latinx caregivers. The intervention described in this paper was culturally and linguistically adapted for young children with language disorders from low-income, Mexican immigrants (N = 8). Social validity was measured across multiple data sources, including participant attendance, caregiver interviews, field notes, caregiver satisfaction surveys, and a post-intervention focus group. The results suggested that the participants’ perspectives and beliefs aligned with the intervention goals, procedures, and outcomes of the adapted CI-NCI. Potential adaptations for future iterations of the intervention are suggested in order to enhance the social validity of CI-NCIs.