• ARTICLES, Special Section, XVIIth International Congress on PCP Australia July 2007

Small-group counselling with primary school children.

Truneckova, D., Viney, L. L.

Keywords:
group processes, personal construct theory, children

Abstract:
A model of group work, based on personal construct theory, was developed for children aged between 8 to 12 years, attending school. Integrating the psychological needs of the children, counsellor skills and expertise, and criteria needed for treatment research, data were sought on changes to construing and behaviour, and on group processes, before and after the intervention. The rationale behind the use of these outcome measures is provided, along with a discussion of the results. The treatment efficacy and clinical utility of this approach, as necessary dimensions of evidence-based practice, are discussed. Finally, the clinical implications of this counselling treatment approach with primary school children, is explored.