Family Treatment of Preschool Behavior Problems

Abstract

Objective Behavioral problems in youth pose a serious mental health and social issue with early-onset problems associated with particular risk for continuation across the lifespan. Given these risks, social workers in clinical practice must be knowledgeable about empirically validated treatments in this area. Method A literature review was conducted on all family-based interventions with preschool behavior problems to determine the efficacy of various approaches. Using these search criteria, only behaviorally oriented parent-training interventions were located. Results Both group and individual parent-training approaches have been found effective over control conditions. When considering cognitive-behavioral adjunctive packages to parent training, more advantages are posed for child rather than parent supplements. Conclusions Not only should social workers be using empirically validated approaches but they can also be involved in evaluating other family-based interventions with preschool behavior problems.