Zetten

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of a specialized version of multisystemic therapy (MST), called MST-ID, for adolescents aged 10 to 19 with severe behavioural problems from families where the adolescent and/or parent(s) have an intellectual disability (ID). The study compares MST-ID to standard MST to see if MST-ID better reduces rule-breaking behaviour and improves outcomes such as living at home, school or work participation, and reduced parenting stress. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are used to explore treatment effects and family experiences. The treatments are intensive, home-based programs involving 3 to 5 visits per week over three to five months. MST-ID is tailored for families with ID by using simplified language, visual supports, more structured sessions, and extra practice time to help generalize skills learned. Families were referred to either MST-ID or standard MST through usual channels rather than random assignment. The qualitative part involves interviews or other methods with about 10 adolescents and/or parents to learn about their experiences with MST-ID. Participants complete questionnaires at five time points: before treatment starts (T0), at treatment end (T1), and follow-ups at 6 (T2), 12 (T3), and 18 months (T4) after treatment start. Both adolescents and parents provide information on rule-breaking behaviour and other outcomes. Routine Outcome Monitoring questionnaires are also collected as part of standard care. The study assesses behavioural changes, parenting stress, and family social support, with safety monitored throughout the follow-up period.