Early intervention for stealing: Interrupting the antisocial trajectory

Type of content
Theses / Dissertations
Publisher's DOI/URI
Thesis discipline
Degree name
Master of Arts
Publisher
University of Canterbury. Psychology
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Language
Date
2008
Authors
McPhail, Lorna May
Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of the Triple P Programme to reduce stealing behaviour in three preadolescent children. Using behavioural monitoring and self-report questionnaires, outcome measures included stealing behaviour, parenting practices, parenting efficacy, and parental mental health. A measure of change was also included to identify change points in the therapeutic process. Results suggest that parent training is effective in the reduction of stealing behaviours, as positive changes were found across all the measures employed. This early intervention has the potential to disrupt an antisocial developmental trajectory for children who steal. Limitations of the study and directions for future research are discussed.

Description
Citation
Keywords
Stealing, Triple P, Behavioural therapy, Children
Ngā upoko tukutuku/Māori subject headings
ANZSRC fields of research
Rights
Copyright Lorna May McPhail