Intervening with Disturbed Adolescents
IDA Project
The research questions of the project are:
- What is the current evidence for the effectiveness of psycho-educational interventions
for seriously disturbed adolescents?
- To what extent is the practice of school psychologists in this area evidence-based?
- How might #1 and #2 be improved?
Essentially, a literature search, critical review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of interventions with seriously emotionally and behaviourally disturbed adolescents was conducted.
Then a survey of school psychologists in New York State explored the extent to which these professionals were aware of this evidential basis, if and how it informed their practice and recommendations, and how such research and dissemination could be improved to have a greater impact on practice.
Research questions #2 and #3 involve exploration of the various demography and socio-cultural contexts within the profession of school (educational) psychology, and the considerable variation in theoretical and philosophical orientation and attitudes and opinions.
The urgency of providing effective school-based interventions for emotionally disturbed adolescents is similar in the United Kingdom and the United States. School psychologists usually have a pivotal role in finding an appropriate solution for the educational and social needs of these students. The results of the project should help connect research, practice and policy. They suggest directions for future training and staff development.