Discrepancies and Agreement in Perceptions of Implementation Leadership: Associations with Dosage of School-Based Evidence-Based Practices for Children with Autism

Adm Policy Ment Health. 2019 Jul;46(4):518-529. doi: 10.1007/s10488-019-00932-3.

Abstract

Studies demonstrate that discrepancies among leader-follower perceptions of leadership are related to organizational processes that may impact evidence-based practice (EBP) implementation. However, it is unknown whether discrepancies in leadership perceptions also predict EBP use. This study examined the association of principal-staff alignment and discrepancy in perceptions of implementation leadership with the dosage of three Autism-focused school-based EBPs, Discrete Trial Training, Pivotal Response Training (PRT), and Visual Schedules. PRT dosage was higher when principals under-rated their implementation leadership and when it was agreed upon that implementation leadership was low. Findings have implications for leaders support of EBPs implemented in school-based settings.

Keywords: Autism; Discrepancy; Evidence-based practice dosage; Implementation leadership; School mental health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autistic Disorder*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Evidence-Based Practice*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Leadership*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States