Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of a weekly cognitive behavioral counseling group with 153 first- through fifth-grade students referred with academic behaviors, academic motivation, and classroom behavioral problems. Students met weekly for six weeks with a school psychologist or intern in heterogenous groups of five similarly-aged students. Each week the classroom teacher provided an evaluative grade for all areas that were specified in an individualized student behavior plan. Significant improvement was found comparing baseline and week-6 grades. During the sixth week the most frequently occurring behavioral score was 3.00 (B grade). Improvement was not dependent on student grade level or type of problem identified by the teacher prior to the intervention. This study extends previous research by using a cognitive behavioral group intervention with early elementary students who had a broad range of classroom problems. Details regarding the progression of activities occurring in the groups are also provided.
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The author would like to express appreciation to Dr. Brent Duncan, Dr. Shane Jimerson, and Dr. Michael Furlong for their assistance and support in revising this manuscript.
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Richardson, A.T. Effectiveness of a Cognitive Behavioral Group Intervention for Elementary Aged Students. Contemp School Psychol 6, 39–45 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03340882
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03340882