Advances in psychotherapy for children and adolescents: Interrelations of adjustment, development, and intervention

Abstract

The present article discusses advances in psychotherapy research with children and adolescents. Effective intervention extends beyond identifying treatment techniques. Understanding the scope of dysfunctions and threats to adjustment and the course of development are central. Three central themes are highlighted. First, the scope of clinical dysfunctions, at-risk behavior, and conditions to which children are exposed are discussed. Second, the role of development in adjustment is illustrated by examples of research on negative affect, social behavior, and empathy. Finally, advances in psychotherapy outcome research are described with illustrations of treatment applications in the schools. The importance of treatment informed by developmental theory and the role of the school in identifying dysfunction and intervening are discussed in light of current advances in research.