Adolescents with conduct problems: Analyzing the impact of family structure on treatment outcomes

This study examined the effects of family structure on treatment outcomes among a sample of proportionately minority, urban adolescents exhibiting behavior problems (Blacks, 56.2%; Latinos/Hispanics, 20.5%, Whites, 16.4%; and other, 6.8%). Eighty-one families received Functional Family Treatment, which features evidence- and family-based, customized intervention, and they were assigned to a two (single-mother households, N = 50 and married-mother households, N = 30), by two (pre-test/post-test) design. Adolescents completed measures on peer association, drug use, psychological distress, self-identified problem areas and family functioning. Mothers (all of whom were the biological mothers) reported their perception of family functioning. Results were analyzed using univariate repeated measures analysis of variance and t-tests. Findings indicated that the treatment was significantly effective in decreasing specific types of drug use and improving several domains of family functioning for adolescents from single-mother households. The treatment also significantly improved the single-mothers report on overall family functioning as well as in several critical domains. Implications for treatment interventions are discussed.