School-based indicated prevention: a randomised trial of group therapy

Authors: McArdle, Paul; Moseley, David; Quibell, Toby; Johnson, Rob; Allen, Ann; Hammal, Donna; leCouteur, Ann

Source: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry and Allied Disciplines, Volume 43, Number 6, September 2002 , pp. 705-712(8)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

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Abstract:

Background: One hundred and twenty-two children identified by teachers as at risk for behavioural or emotional problems were randomly allocated to drama-group therapy or to a curriculum-studies control, based in school. Methods: One hundred and seventeen completed the intervention phase of the trial, which comprised 12 hour-long sessions. Post-intervention self-reports showed significant effects associated with both interventions. Results: However, there was a clear advantage of group therapy over both a waiting list control and curriculum studies, according to teacher reports. This was true also of categorical analyses focusing on those with the most severe symptoms. Conclusions: These analyses confirmed sustained teacher-reported improvement over a year-long follow-up period.

Keywords: Randomised controlled trial; group therapy; selective/indicated prevention

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1469-7610.00091

Affiliations: 1: Fleming Nuffield Unit, UK

Publication date: 2002-09-01