Charlotte Bolt, Tamara Wallace, Nicola Brandon, Amy Brayley, Anita D'Urso
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Tree of Life Groups (a narrative therapy technique) have been used successfully in a number of paediatric populations. The group intervention aims to give children a space to express their difficulties whilst also holding in mind their strengths and hopes, thereby creating a preferred identity incorporating their physical health condition. No studies were identified which described this approach in a paediatric epilepsy population or involving siblings, families and the multidisciplinary team.
Methods: The current paper describes a pilot intervention to facilitate a one-day psychoeducational Tree of Life group for children with epilepsy, their siblings and parents. Separate parent and sibling groups were facilitated concurrently. The groups were co-facilitated by Paediatric Psychology and Paediatric Epilepsy team members. Quantitative feedback was completed by the patient group. Patients, siblings, and parents provided qualitative feedback.
Results: A total of 6 patients, 14 siblings and 15 parents attended the group. Quantitative feedback indicated some improvement in patients' confidence and knowledge of managing epilepsy, as well as some improvements in psychological adjustment and thoughts about epilepsy. 87.5% of patients and siblings detailed that they would recommend the group to others. Qualitative feedback from patients, siblings and parents indicated the helpfulness of relating to others and safely expressing difficulties.
Conclusions: The results indicated that this pilot group intervention was well received by children with epilepsy and their families. Future studies incorporating a larger sample are warranted to explore this further.
期刊介绍:
Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry brings together clinically oriented, peer reviewed work of the highest distinction from an international and multidisciplinary perspective, offering comprehensive coverage of clinical and treatment issues across the range of treatment modalities.
Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry is interested in advancing theory, practice and clinical research in the realm of child and adolescent psychology and psychiatry and related disciplines.
The journal directs its attention to matters of clinical practice, including related topics such as the ethics of treatment and the integration of research into practice.
Multidisciplinary in approach, the journal includes work by, and is of interest to, child psychologists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists, nurses, social workers and all other professionals in the fields of child and adolescent psychology and psychiatry.