Family treatment of preschool behavior problems

Objective: Behavioral problems in youth pose a serious mental health and so cial issue with early-onset problems associated with particular risk for co ntinuation across the lifespan. Given these risks, social workers in clinic al practice must be knowledgeable about empirically validated treatments in this area. Method: A literature review was conducted on all family-based i nterventions 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 indivi dual parent-training approaches have been found effective over control cond itions. When: considering cognitive-behavioral adjunctive packages to paren t training, more advantages are posed for child rather than parent suppleme nts. Conclusions: Not only should social workers be using empirically valid ated approaches bur they can also be involved in evaluating other family-ba sed interventions with preschool behavior problems.