Multiple criteria follow-up of behavior modification with families

Abstract

This report presents termination and follow-up evaluations of a parent training program based on behavior modification principles. Treatment termination outcome data were obtained for 22 families, and follow-up data were collected on 14 of these families 3 and 8 months after treatment. Results indicated a fairly high level of success at termination on the basis of parent-collected observational data, parent attitude change toward the children, and parent attitude concerning the process and outcome of treatment. Modest levels of success were evidenced on the basis of behavioral data recorded by trained observers in the home. Families who participated in follow-up demonstrated greater cooperation and involvement with the treatment program than those who did not participate. In all other respects, however, these two groups were similar. Follow-up data on parent attitude measures demonstrated maintenance of the treatment effects. Parent observational data were incomplete, but also showed maintenance in follow-up. For the subsample of 14 cases, home observation records indicated a nonsignificant decline in deviant behavior at termination followed by a nonsignificant increase in deviant behavior during follow-up. The meaning and implications of these discrepant findings were discussed and compared with results from other laboratories.