Question

As a forensic psychologist, your primary approach in correctional settings has been the cognitive-behavioral approach because of the likelihood for rehabilitative success when properly implemented. Outline a plan for treatment (individual and/or group) and explain which elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy you would implement in treating this client (e.g., social skills development training, relapse prevention, practical skills training, etc.) and why.

Answer 1

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a short term therapy used to change behavior when people suffer from the complexities of mind like isolation, depression etc. Through various activities this therapy can be imparted:

Role play activities: It is very interesting and in a group it can be implemented very successfully. It changes the way of thought. Various roles are selected and these roles are assigned to the students to play. It brings spontaneity in them.

Home work: The therapist should provide homework assignment to the children. The topic must be on such subject that the child need to think deeply. It can be done individually or group wise. Subjects may include opinions regarding present problems, child labour, friendship etc.

Discussion sessions: The therapist can discuss on a particular subject. He may seek opinions of the students on a particular subject.

Project assignment: The therapist can develop the cognitive behavior of an individual through training through project method. He should be asked to make a model or to do a survey through interview.

Social survey: The students may be assigned in group to do some social survey. They may be assigned to find out the number of children of various age groups in a particular locality. It develops social interaction.