Treatment of Comorbid Conduct Problems and Depression in Youth: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to pilot a cognitive behavioral treatment protocol for adolescents with co-occurring conduct problems and depression. A non-concurrent multiple baseline design was used to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. A sample of five adolescents, aged 11 to 14 years, participated; all five families completed the protocol. Results indicated that symptoms of oppositionality were significantly reduced. Moreover, maternal ratings suggested significant improvements in emotion regulation in their children and cohesion in the family. However, symptoms of depression showed little improvement. Results of this study have implications for improving treatment outcomes for youth with these comorbid conditions and may lead to increased conceptual understanding of these comorbid problems.

KEYWORDS:

• conduct problems
• depression
• treatment

Notes

Note. CD = conduct disorder; ODD = oppositional defiant disorder; MDD = major depressive disorder; DYS = dysthymia; SOC = social phobia; SAD = separation anxiety disorder; ADHD = attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

Note. CDI = Childhood Depression Inventory; DBDRS = Disruptive Behavior Disorders Rating Scale; ERC = Emotion Regulation Checklist; FES = Family Environment Scale.