This study evaluated a program to teach social skills to children and adolescents using a cognitive behavioral approach in small groups that met weekly. One group of seven children and a parallel parents' group are described. Evaluation indicated improved social functioning for most children. The importance of liaison with parents and teachers in…

A study aimed to apply motivational interviewing techniques in assisting seven individuals with mental retardation and alcohol-related problems through the stages of change. The group met for one hour over three sessions and staff training was provided. Results demonstrated increases in motivation, self-efficacy, and determination to change their…

Behavioral and cognitive-behavioral group programs for weight control were effective among 32 college women in reducing weight and alleviating depressed mood, fear of negative evaluations, and social avoidance and distress. Addition of cognitive restructuring component failed to improve efficacy of behavioral weight control program even on…

Identifies and discusses six specific factors that distinguish group therapy from family therapy: epistemology, goals, membership, continuity, rules/norms, and power. The implications of these differences for therapist training and practice are discussed. (TE)

Profiles the parenting seminars and counseling services for divorcing parents offered by the Children of Separation and Divorce Center, a community service agency in Maryland. The seminars are designed to help parents adjust to divorce and understand the needs of their children during and after the divorce process. (MDM)

Summarizes the journal's theme issue on school-based group interventions designed to promote students' social and academic success. Information is organized to assist service providers in utilizing this modality. Contributors share intervention techniques, with particular consideration given to multicultural influences on group interventions and…

Investigated the influence of loss of face and acculturation on the group psychotherapy expectations of Asian American students (n=134). Results showed acculturation was a significant predictor of positive attitudes toward group counseling whereas loss of face was not. Argues that not all Asian Americans have negative orientations toward group…

Explored group leader cognitions and the function experience plays in leaders' cognitive schemas. Participants (n=60) wrote down their thoughts while viewing a 20-minute videotape of a group session. Examination of the 1,299 thoughts revealed a cognitive-behavior schemata that involved all the elements necessary for effective cognitive skill…

Presents a structured group intervention for working with highly self-critical individuals. Argues that excessive self-criticism is an appropriate focus for a structured group approach. Reports on the group model, goals, session activities, and postgroup feedback and observations. Research directions are also suggested. (RJM)

Describes an experimental rehabilitation program for drug addict prisoners which is based on Winnicott's propositions on "object relationships" and was carried out in a hostel in Israel. The program applies a variety of therapeutic modalities, from education to individual, group to family therapy, and evaluates and screens potential…

Describes three therapeutic group activities used with adolescents, adults, or families in adventure- and experiential-education settings. Includes target group, group size, time and space requirements, activity level, props needed, instructions, and ideas for post-activity group processing and reflection. Activities involve moving beyond…

Reports on a group therapy program designed to enhance self-awareness, self-esteem, and body awareness among the demented elderly. Focuses on techniques of meditation, relaxation, sensory awareness, and guided imagery. Claims that the group is easily reproducible and offers benefits both to nursing home residents and staff. (RJM)

Posttraumatic stress is an occupational hazard for certain high-risk groups such as personnel in emergency services, public safety, and disaster response. Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) represents a structured group intervention designed for the mitigation of posttraumatic stress. Provides an introduction to and an overview of the CISD…

A study of 246 child victims of extrafamilial sexual abuse (ages 2-14) investigated effectiveness of family participation in crisis counseling, individual parent/child treatment, children's treatment groups, and parent support groups. A family approach and services for parents in addition to intervention for child victims were key components in…

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of three school-based interventions for anxious children: group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for children, group CBT for children plus parent training group, and no-treatment control. Method: Students (7-11 years old) in three elementary schools (N = 453) were screened using the Multidimensional…