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Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effects of age at enrollment in early intervention (EI) and dosage of EI services (frequency and intensity) on parental self-efficacy (PSE) and to determine whether parents with better PSE demonstrate more involvement in deciding Individualized Family Service Plan goals (IFSP), services, and amount of services.

Method: Sixty-five parent-child dyads were included in this retrospective between-subjects study. PSE was measured using the Scale of Parental Involvement and Self-Efficacy (DesJardin, 2003). Dosage of EI services and parent/professional involvement in IFSP decision-making were measured using a Child Demographic Questionnaire.

Results: Statistically significant correlations were not found between age at EI enrollment and SPISE subscales. Statistically significant correlations were not found based on frequency or intensity of EI services. Mixed results were found regarding level of parent involvement in decision-making of IFSP goals, kinds of services, and amount of services.

Conclusions: Findings demonstrate the complexities in determining the effects of age at EI enrollment, EI dosage, and central elements of the IFSP on self-efficacy in parents of children who are deaf/hard-of-hearing. Future studies are needed to validate these findings and further the knowledge base about the role of EI in supporting parents’ sense of self-efficacy in supporting their child’s development.

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