Parent-Child Interaction Therapy: A Manualized Intervention for the Therapeutic Child Welfare Sector

• NCJ Number: 246934
• Journal: Child Abuse and Neglect Volume: 37 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2013 Pages: 578-584
• Author(s): Rae Thomas; Amy D. Herschell
• Date Published: August 2013
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Children who have experienced maltreatment can often display behavioral difficulties; their parents may lack disciplinary knowledge, be less sensitive to their children, and engage in coercive parenting practices.

Abstract

Children who have experienced maltreatment can often display behavioral difficulties; their parents may lack disciplinary knowledge, be less sensitive to their children, and engage in coercive parenting practices. Parent-child interaction therapy PCIT is a well-known, evidence-based treatment EBT for child behavior problems and within the last decade has garnered significant evidence to suggest its utility for parents engaged in child maltreatment. This article uses a case example to describe PCIT treatment phases and PCIT research within the child maltreatment sector is synthesized with particular focus on treatment modifications. Successful augmentations and modifications include a motivation component, keeping therapeutic time shorter rather than longer, and whether to incorporate individual counseling and in-home PCIT are also considered. Practical strategies from both a therapeutic and research experience are discussed.