The Center for Education, Widener University,
One University Place, Chester, PA 19013
Steven A. Morse, Ed. D.
August 26, 2003
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edited 5/22/04
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A dissertation completed at
The Center for Education, Widener University, One University Place, Chester, PA 19013 |
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The impact of an adaptation of The Teaching-Family Model at a school for children with severe emotional challenges
Steven A. Morse, Ed. D. August 26, 2003 |
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ABSTRACT
Research suggests that social skills training can be a tremendously useful tool in helping students control overt inappropriate social behaviors and in increasing academic achievement. The Teaching-Family Model has been shown to help children control their overt behaviors, but little has been done to show the effectiveness of this model with a strong clinical component, strictly in the school setting.
The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the implementation of an adaptation of the Teaching-Family Model as a school behavior modification program and the effects this program demonstrates on student behaviors. The goal was to see how the model allows children the opportunity to have pleasant and satisfying experiences in the school setting by managing their own behavior. Self-regulation of behavior gives the children control of their environment and promotes less difficulty with school rules and regulations. This is done through providing a long-term positive effect on students' ability to interact with others and on attitudes about school.
In the current study, students were retrained regardless of their family situation. The participants in this study were 12 to 17 year old school students in a private, New Jersey approved special education alternative school. These students have all been diagnosed with one or more emotional and/or behavioral disorders. This study compared parent and teacher rating scales at the beginning of implementation of the model with parent and teacher rating scales after two years of implementation.
The results indicate non-significant changes in the behaviors as portrayed on the rating scales used after initial implementation. Implications for future studies, as well as limitations of the current study are discussed in detail. Recommendations are made for future studies which may provide different results depending on the methods employed.
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