Treatment of adolescents in a residential facility: a study of three approaches.

This study examined the preferred professional treatment approach at a residential treatment center for socially and emotionally maladjusted girls. The dorm child-care workers and the clinical and educational staff responded to a questionnaire composed of statements reflective of three theoretical orientations: psychoanalytic, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. No significant differences were found between the three departments (clinical, school, dorm) for each model of therapy. The results also indicated that the professional personnel employed at this treatment facility were all in agreement that the cognitive-behavioral model of therapeutic intervention is the one preferred. Implications of these findings are discussed.

Program effectiveness of a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed adolescent females as measured by exit personality tests.

This study examines whether there are any significant differences in the Jessness Inventory psychological profiles between adolescent females who have successfully completed a treatment program at a residential treatment center and adolescent females of similar socioeconomic backgrounds and age who have not exhibited overt evidence of psychological problems. A significant difference was found in the mean scores on several of the scales. Implications as to the meaning of these differences and program effectiveness are discussed.

Personality tests as a predictor of success in a residential treatment center.

This study compares the profiles of two groups of emotionally disturbed female adolescents as measured by two objective personality tests, the HSPQ and the Jesness Inventory. The hypothesis tested was that the unsuccessful girls would score significantly differently on various dimensions of the two tests than the successful girls. Unsuccessful girls were those who did not complete the treatment program; successful girls were those who completed the program. A comparison of the mean scores of the various personality factors on each test showed significant differences upon admission.

Evaluation of a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed adolescents.

This study examines a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed female adolescents by comparing changes in personality as measured by objective tests given while in residence and by a questionnaire sent to former residents at least six months after release. Two hypotheses were tested. The first was that the girls would be successful when they returned to their communities. "Success" was defined by a number of variables on a questionnaire. Responses to the questions indicate that the girls are doing well. The second hypothesis was that the girls would show significant improvement in their scores on two personality tests taken at the time they were admitted and at the time of their release. A comparison of the mean scores of the various factors on each test showed significant improvement.