A Follow-up Study of the Impact of Family Therapy in the Pediatric Office

Abstract

Fifteen families received family therapy from a pediatrician and nurse practitioner. Most families began therapy because of school problems or behavior problems with one of the children. There was serious marital discord in nine families that resulted in divorce in two of them. At least one year after the families began therapy, they were recalled for interviews by a psychologist who was unknown to them. Information was obtained during these interviews that indicates (1) pediatricians and nurse practitioners were accepted in their roles as therapists by 14 of the 15 families and (2) all families rated their family therapy experiences as useful.

Family therapy in paediatrics

“…Finally, limited evidence supporting the compatibility, patient acceptance and effectiveness of family therapy by a nurse practitioner and a paediatrician in a primary care general paediatric practice setting has been promulgated. (Karofsky et al, 1983).…”