Developmental psychopathology and pediatric behavior therapy

This article exemplifies by the development of aggressive behaviour that there is a group of children (about 5%) who as "early starters" show stable aggressive behaviour with a poor prognosis. On examining the development of these children biopsychosocial risk factors can be found such as minimal neurological disturbances, which again correlate with the so-called difficult temperament of a child and later with impulsivity and oppositional defiance behaviour. Since these disturbances commence at an early age, preventive methods and early intervention are necessary. Criteria are listed that help to recognise risk children as "early starters". Questions lead to the planning of intervention, for instance, whether individual, group or combined therapy is indicated. Five demands to be made on child-specific behaviour therapy are named, e.g. specificity of age group, material and resource orientation. The principles of methods and materials are explained by means of numerous examples, such as the training of perception in respect of social occurrences, relaxation methods, model-learning techniques with the aid of video material, various behavioural exercises and self-control techniques. Parent and family consultation is also dealt with. Results of combined methods lead to complex training programmes, like in a unit construction system. Such combinations are the most effective treatment methods.