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Parent-Child Interaction Therapy With At-Risk Families
Series: Issue Briefs |
Author(s):
Child Welfare Information Gateway
|
Year Published: 2007 |
Introduction
Issue briefs include a review and synthesis of recent published research and selected program examples that demonstrate evidence-based practices.
Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) is a family-centered treatment approach proven effective for abused and at-risk children ages 2½ to 12 and their biological or foster caregivers. During PCIT, therapists coach parents while they interact with their children. Sitting behind a one-way mirror and coaching the parent through an “ear bug” audio device, therapists guide parents through strategies that reinforce their children's positive behavior. Research has shown that as a result of PCIT, parents learn more effective parenting techniques, the behavior problems of children decrease, and the quality of the parent-child relationship improves.
This issue brief is intended to build a better understanding of the characteristics and benefits of PCIT. It was written primarily to help child welfare caseworkers and other professionals who work with at-risk families make more informed decisions about when to refer parents and caregivers, along with their children, to PCIT programs. This information may also help biological parents, foster parents, and other caregivers understand what they and their children can gain from PCIT and what to expect during treatment. This brief also may be useful to others with an interest in implementing or participating in effective parent-training strategies.
Table of Contents
- What Makes PCIT Unique
- Key Components
- Effectiveness of PCIT
- What to Look for in a Therapist
- Conclusion
- Resources
- References
This issue brief was developed by Child Welfare Information Gateway, in partnership with the Chadwick Center for Children and Families at Rady Children's Hospital San Diego. Contributing authors include Mark Chaffin, Ph.D., Nicole Taylor, Ph.D., Charles Wilson, M.S.S.W., and Robyn Igelman, Ph.D.
This document is made possible by the Children's Bureau, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The conclusions discussed here are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not represent the official views or policies of the funding agency. The Children's Bureau does not endorse any specific treatment or therapy.
Suggested citation: Child Welfare Information Gateway (2007). Parent-child interaction therapy with at-risk families. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.