ADVANCES IN PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS - INTERRELATIONS OF ADJUSTMENT, DEVELOPMENT, AND INTERVENTION

The present article discusses advances in psychotherapy research with children and adolescents. Effective intervention extends beyond identi fying treatment techniques. Understanding the scope of dysfunctions an d threats to adjustment and the course of development are central. Thr ee central themes are highlighted. First, the scope of clinical dysfun ctions, at-risk behavior, and conditions to which children are exposed are discussed. Second, the role of development in adjustment is illus trated by examples of research on negative affect, social behavior, an d empathy. Finally, advances in psychotherapy outcome research are des cribed with illustrations of treatment applications in the schools. Th e importance of treatment informed by developmental theory and the rol e of the school in identifying dysfunction and intervening are discuss ed in light of current advances in research.