| Abstract: | Abstract This study evaluates the effectiveness of a multiple family group intervention developed to improve familial functioning and decrease the frequency of children's behavior problems while families are living in shelters and as they prepare to transition back into more permanent living conditions. The skill-based curriculum focuses on diminishing stress, while helping strengthen families' beliefs, cohesion and structure. Nineteen adults and thirty-five children from five shelters across a mid-south metropolitan area participated in the study. The results showed significant reductions in parents' perceived stress and improvements in families' level of cohesion and their children's maladaptive behaviors. Moreover, effect sizes showed that these changes were clinically significant as well. |
