Application of the Teaching-Family Model for Japanese Maltreated Children in a Residential Treatment Setting

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate outcomes of the Teaching-Family Model (TFM) as an intervention for maltreated children who exhibit noncompliance and problematic behavior, in a Japanese residential treatment setting. Methods: The effect of the TFM on 44 children (mean age, 13.6 years; age range, 6–18 years) was assessed using the count data for noncompliance, evaluated by the direct care staff, and problematic behaviors, assessed by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Data were collected at three time points (at the implementation of the TFM and at 6 months and 1 year after implementation) and compared to assess changes. Results: At 1 year after the TFM, a significant decrease in noncompliance (noncompliance with the rules: F [2, 78] = 4.41, p = .015; noncompliance with following the instructions: df = 2, χ² = 6.31, p = .043) was seen. Significant decreases were also seen in CBCL T-scores at both 6 months and 1 year after the TFM (total problems: F [2, 86] = 361.20, p 〈 .001; internalizing problems: F [2, 86] = 287.26, p 〈 .001; externalizing problems: F [2, 86] = 193.44, p 〈 .001). Conclusion: These results suggest that the use of a TFM may promote positive changes in problematic behavior displayed by maltreated children in Japanese residential treatment settings.