Large group treatment of severely disturbed/conduct-disordered adolescents.
Group psychotherapy is an effective treatment modality for many teenagers. Although group treatment usually refer to a group of 10 or fewer members, this article argues that larger groups are an even better choice when the members are severely disturbed/conduct-disordered adolescents. Although challenging and exciting, group psychotherapy with these youngsters can be a difficult task. Their narcissistic vulnerability, impaired ability to mediate between internal and external events, and their propensity for violently expressing their frustration, rage, and despair demand a structure that is both firm and flexible, and carefully planned strategies. A structure and technique that maximizes safety during and following group meetings, that positively influences behavior, and that may facilitate an altered perception of self and others are discussed.
Carlin
M E
ME
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kings County Hospital Center, NY, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D008297:Male; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*; D012920:Social Behavior Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*