NCJ Number
206611
Date Published
2004
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the use of evidence-based treatment (selection of interventions based on their empirically demonstrated links to the desired outcomes) with juvenile delinquents who have externalizing disorders.
Abstract
The most common externalizing disorders are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), conduct disorder (CD), and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). In describing the steps in treating these disorders, a case example is used. The first step is a biopsychosocial assessment, followed by a diagnosis and a review of proven treatment techniques for the diagnosed problems. In the case presented, the social worker found expert consensus that the most effective treatments for children and adolescents with conduct disorder are parent management training, multisystemic therapy, cognitive problem-solving skills training, and functional family therapy. Each of these treatment techniques is briefly described. The third step is to select the particular intervention plan believed to be best suited for the client and his/her family. Remaining steps are to establish treatment goals and targets for change, implementation of the intervention plan, and the monitoring of the treatment program. The chapter concludes that researchers have not yet determined the short-term and long-term impact of evidence-based treatments on conduct-disordered youths, and it is not always clear what part of the therapeutic process produces change; however, in the meantime, practitioners can use the existing knowledge base to guide their work with this challenging population. 2 tables and 70 references