A systematic review of cognitive-behavioural interventions for adolescents with anger-related difficulties

Cognitive-behavioural approaches have long been recognised as effective interventions for a range of mental health difficulties (Butler, Chapman, Forman & Beck, 2006). More recently, as the social need for anger management programmes has increased, cognitive-behavioural approaches have emerged as the most common therapeutic intervention for anger, both for children and adolescents (Snyder-Badau & Esquivel, 2005), and for adults (Beck & Fernandez, 1998). Though there is some evidence of effectiveness within the literature (ibid; Sukhodolsky, Kassinove & Gorman, 2004), there is still contention in the field, notably regarding their effectiveness with adolescents, and their long-term benefits in terms of maintenance of effects (Graham, 1998; Stallard, 2005). This review looked at the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural interventions for adolescents with anger-related difficulties, focusing on 14 published, empirical studies. The majority of studies (N = 13) found evidence of significant short-term modification of anger-related difficulties, and, where effect sizes were provided, these were mainly in the medium-to-large range. Six studies also provided follow-up data, with largely positive results. However, all results were interpreted with caution, due to variability in the quality of the studies and methodological inconsistencies. Recommendations for further research, therefore, considered methodological concerns, such as strengthening experimental rigour, as well as theoretical developments. The latter included investigation of gender imbalances in the literature, the role of group dynamics in programme effectiveness, and the comparative effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural programmes, compared both to each other, and to other therapeutic interventions. Further consideration should also be given to the longer-term effects of cognitive-behavioural interventions.