¶ … teenagers, especially those who are identified as "at-risk." Engagement is described by the authors as "a complex and crucial component of effective treatment that increases retention in services," which is "a requirement for successful outcomes and behavior change," (Thompson, Bender, Windsor & Flynn, 2009, p. 121). Engagement will manifest differently for each client but generally it refers to bonding with the therapist, participation in treatment options, and caring about treatment goals. Basically, engagement is what keeps the client interested. Thus, the therapist has an active role in creating motivation for and means of engagement. At-risk youth are identified as those exhibiting behavioral problems, and who are therefore at risk for developing more severe problems if left untreated. Delinquency, truancy, running away, and other family conflicts are considered "at risk" behaviors (Thompson, et al., 2009).
The authors examine the role of in-home family therapy in encouraging...
In-home family therapy has been shown to "significantly increase attendance and participation of adolescents and their families in therapeutic sessions in comparison with office-based therapy," (Thompson, et al., 2009, p. 121). The reason for the success of at-home family therapy is that it occurs on the family's time, eliminating problems related to schedule conflicts or general discomfort in showing up for office appointments. Transportation barriers, and financial constraints also delimit the level of engagement of the client and the family. At-home family therapy has also been shown to "be more effective than peer groups" in treating at-risk adolescents, probably because in-home therapy can highlight family dynamic issues that would not emerge in the context of peer therapy (Thompson, et al., 2009, p. 121). At-home family therapy has also been shown to be more effective than individual therapy, according to the authors. "Creative approaches"…
