The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C) in Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms and Attention Problems among Children living in Single-Parent Families

A research protocol describes a planned randomized controlled trial to evaluate Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C) for children in single-parent households. The trial will compare 12 sessions of MBCT-C group therapy against a sham mindfulness program in 76 children. Outcomes include internalizing and externalizing symptoms and attention problems, measured at pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up using several standardized instruments. Data will be analyzed with a mixed regression model. The protocol aims to inform tailored interventions for this population.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Background Current research aimed to provide a research protocol to assess the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C) for externalizing and internalizing symptoms and attention problems among children living in a single-parent household. Method This study protocol proposes a two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing MBCT-C with an active control group (ACG). The intervention group will receive 12 sessions of MBCT-C group therapy, while the ACG will receive 12 sessions of sham mindfulness programs. Seventy-six children will be randomly selected and assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The study will be semi-experimental research with a cross-over design that assessments will be conducted at the pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up. Participants will respond to the Child Behavioral Checklist (CBCL), Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Mindfulness Program Satisfaction Questioner (MPSQ), and Clinical Global Impressions (CGI). Data will be analyzed using a mixed regression model in STATA 18. Results The obtained data will be analyzed with the mixed regression model to determine the effectiveness of the interventions. Conclusion The current study has implications for designing the tailored intervention by evaluating the impact of MBCT-C on symptoms related to internalization and externalization as well as attention problems among children in single-parent families.