Components of group processes: Have they conributed to the outcome of mood and anxiety diorder patients in a group cognitive-behaviour therapy program

The present study assessed the influence of group processes on clinical outcomes of patients with anxiety and depression following group Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). Five group environment variables were measured: cohesion, leader support, expressiveness, independence, and self-discovery. One hundred and sixty two patients attended a group CBT program and were assessed at pre and post-treatment. Results provided evidence for the effectiveness of group therapy as patients reported significantly lower depression and anxiety at the conclusion of treatment. Expressiveness was the only predictor of post-treatment anxiety, whereas leader support, expressiveness, and independence were significant predictors of post-treatment depression. Overall, findings suggest that the patients benefited from high levels of expressiveness and independence within their therapy group. In contrast, they failed to benefit from high levels of leader support, whereas both group cohesion and self-discovery appeared to be unrelated to outcome

Does the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program provide value for money?

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the economic case for the implementation of the Triple P- Positive Parenting Program on a population basis in Queensland, Australia, in order to reduce the prevalence of conduct disorder in children. Method: Threshold analysis was undertaken together with a limited cost-effectiveness analysis. Results: The Triple P-Positive Parenting Program is a dominant intervention; that is, it costs less than the amount it saves, until the reduction in prevalence falls below 7% where net costs become positive. Conclusions: Triple P is likely to be a worthwhile use of limited health funds. The economic case is promising, but further research is required to confirm the study results.

Internet-based indicated prevention for panic disorder: An effectiveness trial in primary care

Previous studies have shown that an internet delivered indicated prevention program for panic disorder can be effective. However, those studies were done with select populations. Most individuals who are at risk for panic disorder present to hospital emergency rooms and primary care settings. This paper reports on a study currently being undertaken in Scotland where the program is being trialed in primary care. The intervention and experimental design will be described. However the key research question is whether General Practitioners will make use of the internet-based intervention system. Preliminary results will be reported. The results of the study will have implications for the way that primary care is recruited into the prevention of mental health problems.

Implementation of Triple P-Positive Parenting Program in Hong Kong: Predictors of programme completion and clinical outcomes

This study examined the effectiveness of the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program in a government child health service delivery context with Chinese parents in Hong Kong. Specifically, the study sought to identify pre-intervention variables that might predict programme outcomes such as, level of clinical improvement and programme completion. Participants were 661 parents of pre-school and primary aged children participating in a group version of the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program. There were significant decreases in disruptive child behaviours, levels of parenting stress, general stress and anxiety and an increase in parenting sense of competence. Greater change in reports of child behaviour problems was related to lower levels of family income, new immigrant family status, and higher pre-intervention levels of parenting stress. The present study provides a profile of parents who are most likely to benefit from parent training programmes.