Evaluation of functional family therapy in an Irish context

In an Irish context we conducted a retrospective archival study of Functional Family Therapy for adolescents with behavioural problems. Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire data were collected from 118 families at the beginning and end of therapy (at baseline and follow-up for dropouts) in a community-based clinic in a socially disadvantaged Dublin suburb. Analyses of improvement in mean scores and clinical recovery rates showed that outcome was associated with treatment completion and therapist adherence. Therapy completers treated by high-adherent therapists had the most favourable outcome.