The triadic model as applied to the treatment of conduct-disordered children: A review and critique

Abstract

Conduct-disordered behaviour in children has long been recognised as an area of particular concern for counsellors, clinical and educational psychologists and other professionals, especially given its widespread incidence and poor long-term prognosis. In response to this concern, one recent development in the field has been the use of an applied social learning theory approach, utilising a triadic model of intervention. Such a model, rather than working directly with the child, firmly locates the parent or other caregiver as the agent of change. This paper reviews critically the work which has been carried out under the broad rubric of the m'adic model, addressing specifcally the short-and longer-term eflcacy of such interventions. In addition, certain shortcomings and limitations in existing practice are identifed. It is argued that, in order to optimise the eflectiveness of interventions, this will in many instances require a consideration of and work on parental well-being and self-esteem, the role of family dynamics and the influence of the social context.Conduct-disordered behaviour in children has long been recognised as an area of particular concern for clinical psychologists and other professionals, especially given its widespread incidence and poor long-term prognosis. Historically, however, lasting therapeutic change has proved difficult to facilitate. A recent development has been the use of a triadic model as a mode of intervention. This model, rather than working directly with the child, firmly locates the parent or other caregiver as the agent of change.This paper seeks to identify the theoretical rationale underlying the use of the triadic model as a therapeutic strategy with conduct-disordered children. It then considers the types of interventions which have been used under the rubric of such a model and the efficacy, both short-and long-term, of such interventions. Finally, it considers some limitations of this approach, particularly if used narrowly. Specifically, it is argued that to optimise the effectiveness of interventions, many cases may require a consideration of, and work on, parental well-being and self-esteem, the role of family dynamics and the influence of the social context.