Publication Date

2010-01-01

Availability

Open access

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology (Arts and Sciences)

Date of Defense

February 2010

First Committee Member

Kristin Lindahl - Committee Chair

Second Committee Member

Craig Marker - Committee Member

Third Committee Member

Jill Ehrenreich May - Committee Member

Fourth Committee Member

Neena Malik - Committee Member

Abstract

This study evaluated the efficacy of a parent training and a family-based intervention targeting externalizing behavior in school-age boys. This study examined the impact of psychosocial treatments on family functioning, and investigates dimensions of family functioning as mechanisms of therapeutic change. A predominately Hispanic sample of 46 families were recruited as part of a larger research project. Study participants ranged in age from 7 to 12 years and exhibited significant behavioral difficulties related to either ADHD or oppositionality and defiance. Measures used to assess changes in child behavior and family functioning included the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory, the Family Interaction Scale, and the System for Coding Interactions and Family Functioning. Clinically relevant and statistically significant improvement in child behavior problems and dimensions of family functioning were found at post-treatment. These findings are clinically important as they identify parent training and family therapy as efficacious in treatment both child behavior problems and family functioning.

Keywords

Treatment; Externalizing Behavior; Family Cohesion; Family Conflict

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