As practitioners committed to enhancing the mental health and well-being of children, it is crucial to stay informed about evidence-based interventions. A recent study, "Preventing Internalizing Problems in 6–8 Year Old Children: A Universal School-Based Program," provides valuable insights that can be applied in our practices.
Understanding the Study
The study evaluated the efficacy of the Aussie Optimism Program: Feelings and Friends (AOP-FF), a 10-week cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) based intervention aimed at preventing and reducing internalizing problems, such as anxiety and depression, in children aged 6–8 years. The program was implemented in a low socioeconomic status (SES) primary school in Australia, with 206 students participating.
Key Findings
Results from the study revealed several important outcomes:
- Significant reduction in parent-reported anxiety symptoms in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.009).
- Improvement in emotional skills across both intervention and control groups.
- No significant differences in self-reported depression or anxiety symptoms between the intervention and control groups.
Implications for Practitioners
While the study showed mixed results, there are several takeaways that can be beneficial for practitioners:
- Focus on Parent Engagement: The significant reduction in parent-reported anxiety suggests that involving parents in the intervention process can enhance outcomes.
- Developmental Appropriateness: The program was more effective for older children (Year 3). Consider modifying the intervention for younger children to make it more developmentally appropriate.
- Implementation Fidelity: Ensure that the program is delivered as intended. Inconsistent implementation can dilute the effectiveness of the intervention.
Encouraging Further Research
Given the promising results in reducing anxiety, further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and refine the program for different age groups. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this body of research by implementing similar programs and sharing their findings.
Conclusion
Implementing evidence-based interventions like the AOP-FF can play a significant role in preventing internalizing problems in children. By focusing on parent engagement, ensuring developmental appropriateness, and maintaining implementation fidelity, practitioners can enhance the mental health outcomes for children.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Preventing Internalizing Problems in 6–8 Year Old Children: A Universal School-Based Program.
