Parent management training: evidence, outcomes, and issues

Abstract

Objective: To describe and evaluate parent management training (PMT) as a treatment technique for oppositional, aggressive, and antisocial behavior.

Method: Recent research is reviewed on the efficacy of PMT; factors that contribute to treatment outcome; the range of outcomes related to child, parents, and family; and variations of treatment currently in use. Limitations are also discussed related to the impact of treatment, clinical application, and dissemination of treatment.

Results and conclusions: PMT is one of the more well-investigated treatment techniques for children and adolescents. Notwithstanding the large number of controlled studies attesting to its efficacy, fundamental questions remain about the magnitude, scope, and durability of impact.