Guided Self-Help for Parents of Children With Externalizing Problem Behavior

Efficacy of Cognitive-Behavioral Based Guided Self-Help for Parents of Children With Externalizing Problem Behavior

The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral based guided self-help for parents of children with externalizing problem behavior is tested in a randomized clinical trial. Parents work through cognitive-behavioral self-help booklets and additionally receive counseling telephone calls every two weeks. In the control condition parents are provided non-directive self-help booklets and additionally receive counseling telephone calls. It is hypothesized that the cognitive-behavioral treatment is superior.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Child diagnosis of ODD and/or ADHD based on DCL-ODD and DCL-ADHD respectively

Exclusion Criteria:

• Child IQ is below 80
• Child has diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD)
• Indication for inpatient/intensive treatment for child
• Parent training while intervention period
• Planed start, change or discontinuation of psychopharmacological treatment for child while intervention period
• No parental adherence or willingness for randomisation process
• Language or reading difficulties of participating parent