Research on the cognitive-behavioral treatment of school refusal: A reviewand recommendations

Cognitive-behavior therapy is frequently used in the treatment of school re fusal, a challenging problem for mental health professionals and school aut horities. We review the clinical and research support for the efficacy of c ognitive-behavior therapy using recently published guidelines for determini ng the level of evidentiary support for psychosocial interventions. Althoug h cognitive-behavior therapy appears to be a useful treatment for school re fusal, further research is needed before it can be considered as having "we ll-established" empirical status. Several other important methodological an d theoretical issues are emphasized. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd.