Author ORCID Identifier

0009-0002-2966-3492

Date of Award

5-31-2026

Document Type

Campus Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Alice S. Carter

Second Advisor

Abbey Eisenhower

Third Advisor

Heidi Levitt

Abstract

This project explored how parents of young children experience engagement and empowerment within Part C Early Intervention (EI) services, particularly given persistent disparities in service retention among families from marginalized backgrounds. Using video‑recorded EI sessions and follow‑up qualitative interviews with eight diverse parents in the Greater Boston area, the study examined which provider behaviors parents perceived as supporting or hindering their involvement. Findings revealed that trust‑building and relational practices, such as responsiveness, continuity, flexibility, and collaborative partnership, were central to fostering both engagement and empowerment. Rather than specific provider techniques, parents emphasized the importance of feeling valued, supported, and included in decision‑making. These insights can inform future provider training to strengthen relational practices, reduce disparities in EI outcomes, and enhance family‑centered care.

Comments

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