Partial hospitalization treatment for preschoolers with severe behavior problems: child age and maternal functioning as predictors of outcome

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study focused on the behavioral functioning and treatment outcomes of preschool-aged children who attended a specialized, family focused psychiatric partial hospitalization program. METHOD: Study data were collected between 2002 and 2007. Maternal reports of child behavioral functioning were obtained at program admission and discharge. Maternal parenting stress and psychiatric impairment were assessed at admission. RESULTS: Children's symptom severity decreased from admission to discharge, particularly with respect to externalizing symptoms. Both child age and maternal functioning emerged as predictors of treatment outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Specialized partial hospitalization may be an effective approach to treatment for preschool children with severe psychopathology.