Introduction
Functional Family Therapy (FFT) is a widely implemented intervention designed to address behavioral problems in youth aged 11-18. Despite its popularity and claims of consistent positive outcomes, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis by Littell et al. (2023) reveals a more complex picture of FFT's effectiveness. This blog post aims to explore the findings of this comprehensive review and provide insights for practitioners seeking to enhance their therapeutic approaches.
Key Findings from the Review
The systematic review by Littell et al. (2023) included 20 studies, encompassing 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 6 quasi-experimental designs (QEDs). These studies collectively involved 10,980 families, providing a robust data set for analysis. The review aimed to assess FFT's effectiveness compared to other active treatments and no treatment across various outcomes, including recidivism, out-of-home placement, and youth behavior problems.
Inconsistent Outcomes
Contrary to the claims of consistent positive effects, the review found that FFT does not consistently outperform other treatments. The results showed no significant differences in primary outcomes such as recidivism, externalizing behavior, and substance use when compared to other active treatments. This finding challenges the perception of FFT as a superior intervention for youth with behavioral issues.
Moderate Effects on Substance Use
While the overall effects of FFT were not significantly different from zero, the review identified small positive effects on substance use outcomes. This suggests that FFT may offer some benefits in reducing substance use among youth, although these effects were not consistently strong across all studies.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of critical evaluation of intervention programs. While FFT may be beneficial in certain contexts, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Practitioners should consider the specific needs and circumstances of their clients and remain open to integrating other evidence-based approaches.
Encouraging Further Research
The review highlights the need for more rigorous research to better understand the conditions under which FFT is most effective. Future studies should focus on identifying the active ingredients of FFT and exploring its impact on diverse populations. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this research by systematically documenting and sharing their clinical experiences and outcomes.
Conclusion
Functional Family Therapy remains a valuable tool in the repertoire of interventions for youth with behavioral problems. However, the recent review by Littell et al. (2023) calls for a more nuanced understanding of its effectiveness. By staying informed and critically assessing the evidence, practitioners can make data-driven decisions that enhance outcomes for children and families.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Functional Family Therapy for families of youth (age 11–18) with behaviour problems: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
