Search

Sixteen seventh and eighth graders previously identified as having behavioral problems earned significantly higher post-test scores on a test of REBT concepts immediately after participation in a Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) training program, and this knowledge was retained after an 8-week follow-up period (p less than 0.01). Additionally, the 7th graders' post-test scores were significantly higher than the pre-test scores of the 8th graders (who served as a waiting control group). Although the number of office referrals did not decrease sufficiently to produce a statistically significant reduction from baseline to intervention or from baseline to follow-up, moderate to large effect sizes were found. Participants' level of rational thinking and (stated) action were evaluated through written responses to anger-inducing scenarios; rationality of stated actions increased and rationality of thinking increased for the 7th graders and decreased for the 8th graders. Children were successful in acquiring REBT-based principles, and to some extent, in applying these to reduce aggressive behavior. Recommendations for school psychologists in using a rational emotive behavioral approach with middle school students are provided.

An intact second-grade class of 13 African-American students had completed few chapter-book reading assignments. A consultant worked with their teacher to develop an intervention that consisted of paired readings and two interdependent group contingencies. Following the implementation of the program, all students began reading chapter-books and the number of chapter-book quizzes passed increased from an average of less than 0.70 per week during baseline to 7.5 per week during the intervention phase. Discussion focuses on using interdependent group contingencies when targeting academic performance.

A study was conducted to test the validity of shortform assessment for children (SAC), a rapid assessment instrument for child welfare and juvenile systems. The explanation, suggestions and support of parents and teachers for this system are presented.

Sixteen seventh and eighth graders previously identified as having behavioral problems earned significantly higher post-test scores on a test of REBT concepts immediately after participation in a Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) training program, and this knowledge was retained after an 8-week follow-up period (p < .01). Additionally, the 7th graders' post-test scores were significantly higher than the pre-test scores of the 8th graders (who served as a waiting control group). Although the number of office referrals did not decrease sufficiently to produce a statistically significant reduction from baseline to intervention or from baseline to follow-up, moderate to large effect sizes were found. Participants' level of rational thinking and (stated) action were evaluated through written responses to anger-inducing scenarios; rationality of stated actions increased and rationality of thinking increased for the 7th graders and decreased for the 8th graders. Children were successful in acquiring REBT-based principles, and to some extent, in applying these to reduce aggressive behavior. Recommendations for school psychologists in using a rational emotive behavioral approach with middle school students are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]