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

J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2002 Sep;43(6):705-12. doi: 10.1111/1469-7610.00091.

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.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Psychotherapy, Group / methods*
  • School Health Services / organization & administration*