treating behavior problems
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There are several options for treating behavior problems in children- Individual Therapy with the Child, Parent Management Training, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
PCIT is an evidence-based treatment originally developed for young children with disruptive behaviors and their caregivers. PCIT is used with children ages 2-7 who have ADHD or other disruptive behavior problems, but can also be helpful for young children experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. PCIT is a two phase treatment in which the first phase involves strengthening the relationship between the child and caregiver and showing the adult how to reinforce the child's positive behaviors. The second phase involves setting limits and following a structured and consistent procedure when the child is non-compliant. For the first phase of treatment the parent is taught skills that play therapists use with young children based on attachment theory. Skills taught in the second phase are based on behavior theory. Sessions involve the caregiver and child meeting together with the therapist acting as a coach to the parent. This is often done from behind a one-way mirror, via electronic means, but can also be done outside of the office setting using computers or in the home. Mastery criteria are set as a measure of when a family is ready to move from one phase of treatment to the next, and when the family is ready to graduate from treatment.
PCIT is an evidence-based treatment originally developed for young children with disruptive behaviors and their caregivers. PCIT is used with children ages 2-7 who have ADHD or other disruptive behavior problems, but can also be helpful for young children experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. PCIT is a two phase treatment in which the first phase involves strengthening the relationship between the child and caregiver and showing the adult how to reinforce the child's positive behaviors. The second phase involves setting limits and following a structured and consistent procedure when the child is non-compliant. For the first phase of treatment the parent is taught skills that play therapists use with young children based on attachment theory. Skills taught in the second phase are based on behavior theory. Sessions involve the caregiver and child meeting together with the therapist acting as a coach to the parent. This is often done from behind a one-way mirror, via electronic means, but can also be done outside of the office setting using computers or in the home. Mastery criteria are set as a measure of when a family is ready to move from one phase of treatment to the next, and when the family is ready to graduate from treatment.