Developmental Model Using Gestalt-Play Versus Cognitive-Verbal Group with Chinese Adolescents: Effects on Strengths and Adjustment Enhancement

Abstract

Abstract This study compared the effectiveness of short-term developmental group counseling applying Gestalt-play versus cognitive-verbal approaches with Taiwanese adolescents. On a measure of behavioral and emotional strengths, teachers reported significant changes in students' overall behavioral and emotional strengths measured via total scores. Specific areas measured via subscores, included (a) family involvement which was enhanced primarily by the Gestalt-play approach and (b) affective strength which was enhanced primarily by the cognitive-verbal approach. In contrast, parents reported no significant changes. On a measure of school and social adjustment, teachers and students' peers reported weak intervention impacts. Keywords: Asiandevelopmental modelgroup counselingplay therapyschool counseling Notes Note. BERS-T = Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale measured by teachers; BERS-P = Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale measured by parents; O = Counseling group (combination of Gestalt-play and cognitive-verbal groups); GP = Gestalt-play group; CV = cognitive-verbal group; C = control group. **p < .01. Note. BERS-T = Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale measured by teachers; BERS-P = Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale measured by parents; O = Counseling group (combination of Gestalt-play and cognitive-verbal groups); GP = Gestalt-play group; CV = cognitive-verbal group; C = control group. a Wilks's Λ = .72. b Wilks's Λ = .78. *p < .05. Note. ASBS-T = Adolescent Social Behavior Scale measured by teachers; ASBS-P = Adolescent Social Behavior Scale measured by peers; O = Counseling group (combination of Gestalt-play and cognitive-verbal groups); GP = Gestalt-play group; CV = cognitive-verbal group; C = control group. *p < .05. Additional informationNotes on contributorsYih-Jiun Shen Yih-Jiun Shen, D.Ed., is an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership at Texas Tech University.