Abstract:
Group CBT programs are widely used for assisting teenagers
with anxiety. depression and other psychological problems. The
majority of reported programs have targeted school or clinical populations.
however. few have specifically targeted adolescents from highly
troubled and disadvantaged backgrounds. This paper describes a group
CBT program that was developed for teenagers who have not responded
well to the formal structures of school and traditional models of classroom
management. Problems such as low levels of motivation. poor
attention span, learning difficulties, poor impulse control, substance abuse,
and other mental health problems are common within this population. A
number of challenges arose in running the program and several modifications
were made in order to make it more relevant to participants. These
changes resulted in more rapid engagement with the program. improved
cooperation within the group. fewer interruptions, and improved rapport.
The clinical outcomes associated with the program could not be measured due to difficulties with completing administering self-report questionnaires.
