NCJ Number
178386
Journal
Child Abuse and Neglect Volume: 23 Issue: 5 Dated: May 1999 Pages: 477-485
Date Published
1999
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The goal of this evaluation study was to test the efficacy of a structured group therapy intervention in reducing the negative emotional and behavioral sequelae of adolescent girls who are survivors of sexual abuse.
Abstract
The study hypothesized that teens would show an increase in adaptive behaviors and knowledge of positive coping strategies. A seven-session structured group treatment protocol based on Solution Focused and Ericksonian interventions was used. Forty- one teens between the ages of 13 and 18 years participated in the groups. Each group session included a didactic presentation, an art activity, and development of a positive associational cue. Pretest and posttest assessment was done with the use of the Solution Focused Recovery Scale, a measure of adaptive functioning, as well as the Skill Mastery Test, which is designed to assess teens' knowledge of the concepts and strategies taught throughout the group sessions. Overall, there was a significant change in pretest and posttest measurements of adaptive functioning. At this time, no statistically significant changes were evident from scores on the Skill Mastery Test; however, there was a trend toward improvement on visual inspection of the Skill Mastery scores. The study shows that emphasizing competence and skill development in the treatment of adolescent abuse survivors can aid teens in improving their daily functioning and positive recovery behaviors. In addition, early findings regarding the efficacy of this intervention suggest theory-driven research methodology can be applied in a clinical setting with standardized treatment protocols. 3 tables, 34 references, and appended outline of the group sessions