DOI: 10.1177/01454455261444277 ISSN: 0145-4455
Cultural Adaptation of a Caregiver Training Program for Arabic-Speaking Families: Feasibility and Social Validity
Ban Haidar, Rayan Alqunaysi, Hedda Meadan, Melanie R Martin Loya, Menaka De Alwis
This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted, asynchronous online caregiver training program for Arabic-speaking families of children with developmental disabilities. The program addressed behaviors commonly described in the literature as
challenging behavior
,
1
which may interfere with learning, participation, or social interactions. The training was culturally adapted using a structured checklist to enhance contextual and cultural relevance. Fourteen caregivers residing in Saudi Arabia participated. Pre- and post-training assessments showed statistically significant improvements in caregiver knowledge of behavioral strategies. Participants rated the training highly for clarity, cultural responsiveness, and perceived usefulness. Qualitative interviews underscored the program’s social validity and its relevance to caregivers’ lived experiences. These findings provide preliminary support for the potential of culturally grounded, online caregiver training programs to strengthen family capacity and expand access to evidence-based practices in underserved communities.