Cognitive-Behavioural Treatment of School-Refusing Children: Maintenance of improvement at 3- to 5-year follow-up

Although evidence is accumulating on the immediate or short-term efficacy of cognitive-behavioural strategies in the treatment of school refusal, no studies have been reported on the long-term efficacy of this treatment approach. An earlier randomized clinical trial conducted by the authors demonstrated the efficacy of a manual-based cognitive-behavioural treatment program for school refusal relative to waiting list controls. We now report findings of a 3- to 5-year follow-up investigation of the treatment group. In general, results support the long-term efficacy of the treatment program, with children showing maintenance of improvements in school attendance and school adjustment. Methodological limitations of the follow-up investigation are emphasized.