Treatment of externalizing behavior disorders in a comprehensive, continuum-of-care program
Abstract
This study examined the efficacy of a community-based, continuum-of-care program with youth identified as having externalizing behavior disorders (EBD). The etiology of EBD was reviewed, as were the various treatment approaches represented in the literature. The study sought to determine if specific child and family characteristics or individual treatment components of the continuum-of-care program were related to an improvement in symptoms while youth were enrolled. The sample consisted of 100 youth enrolled in the Milwaukee Wraparound program. Participants had a diagnosis of an EBD and elevated externalizing behavior problem scores. Caretaker-reported externalizing behavior scores served as the dependent variable, and were measured at intake, 6-months, and 12-months after enrollment. Growth curve modeling was used to attain individual growth parameters for all participants. Results indicated that youth demonstrated a significant reduction in externalizing symptoms during enrollment. Symptom reduction was not related to individual or family characteristics. Treatment foster care was related to a greater reduction in externalizing symptoms. Other treatment components and cost were not related to change in the program. Study limitations and directions for future research are presented.
This paper has been withdrawn.