This evaluative applied dissertation was designed for implementation within an educational consulting firm in the southeastern United States. The problem addressed in the study was to determine whether out-of-home therapeutic intervention is effective in decreasing at-risk behaviors for emotionally disturbed and socially maladjusted youth, as reported by youths and parents 3 years or more after discharge from the therapeutic program. This research study used procedures for the evaluation of out-of-home therapeutic intervention. The purpose of the study was to add to the existing body of research and to aid professionals in their decisions to place at-risk youths in private residential therapeutic programs. To achieve this collective purpose, the participation of the youths and the parents were surveyed to seek their perceptions and to ensure a thorough study of the problem. Student records were examined to provide additional information. Through this evaluative applied dissertation, the researcher assessed the effectiveness of out-of-home therapeutic intervention by determining whether the therapeutic intervention program met its objectives. This was determined by (a) identifying the standards for judging the effectiveness of the intervention, (b) collecting relevant information with which to conduct the study, and (c) applying the identified standards to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. According to the self-reported surveys of the youths and the parents, out-of-home therapeutic intervention was successful in decreasing at-risk behaviors in youths 3 years or more after discharge from the programs, adding credibility to out-of home therapeutic interventions.
| Date of Award | Jan 1 2008 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Carolyn S. Buckenmaier (Supervisor), John S. Reynolds (Advisor) & Maryellen Maher (Advisor) |
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