Date Approved

8-12-2002

Embargo Period

5-12-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Applied Psychology

Department

Psychology

College

College of Science & Mathematics

Advisor

Cahill, Janet

Subject(s)

Behavior therapy; Mentally ill children

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of a therapeutic treatment program for a latency-aged male child. This eight-year old child presented with several problem areas. These included poor academic performance, attention difficulties, symptoms of depression and acting out behaviors. The client also had a long standing history of family dysfunction and instability. The client participated in a multimodal treatment program consisting of individual and family counseling, as well as a school-based partial care intervention program. The client also received Adderall and Zoloft. The Connor's ADHD Scales, Children's Depression Inventory, and a Patient Satisfaction Survey were administered at different intervals through the course of treatment. The Connor's ADHD Scales were completed at intake by the biological mother and the intake coordinator. They were also administered tri-weekly by the group counselor. The Children's Depression Inventory was completed at the beginning of treatment and three weeks later at discharge. Further, the Patient Satisfaction Survey was completed at the discharge meeting. Results indicated improvements in attending behaviors, but little improvement was noted in levels of depression. Results on the client satisfaction index indicated a high level of satisfaction with the treatment program. Lack of improvement in the depression index may have been due to the difficulties in engaging the client's mother in substance abuse treatment. The treatment protocol utilized by this agency was compared with best practice recommendations in the literature. Implications for normative practice are discussed.

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