Effectiveness of a Therapeutic Program in the Light of Meichenbaum's Theory to Reduce Conduct Disorder and Increase Psychological Flexibility among Adolescent Students

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to design and assess a therapeutic program based on Meichenbaum's theory, focusing on reducing conduct disorder and enhancing psychological flexibility among intermediate-stage adolescent students in Riyadh. Additionally, the research sought to evaluate the program's continued effectiveness for two months post-implementation. Methods: The sample comprised 26 students aged 12 to 17 years, with an average age of 14.3 years, equally divided into experimental and control groups. The conduct disorder scale and psychological flexibility scale were administered to both groups pre- and post- intervention. Intervention: The therapeutic program, based on Meichenbaum's theory, was exclusively applied to the experimental group. Results: The program resulted in a notable decrease in conduct disorder scores and an increase in psychological flexibility scores post-intervention in the experimental group. However, the experimental group showed no significant changes between pre-intervention and follow- up. The study also noted a 23.2% increase in conduct disorders among the general student population, highlighting the necessity of counseling and therapeutic programs. Conclusion: These findings underscore the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy-based programs in a school environment and emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to address behavioral and psychological issues. The study provides valuable insights into using cognitive-behavioral strategies in education and advocates for their application.