Students' evidence-based practice intervention for children with oppositional defiant disorder

Objective: This project integrates clinical intervention as an integral part of social work studies for third-year students. Students applied a new manual-based intervention aiming to develop self-control skills among children exhibiting oppositional defiant disorder. Throughout, students were involved in assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Method: Students participated in evidence-based intervention activities of a university-based clinical research center. The project for social work students combined theoretical study, training, research, and intervention under one umbrella, with the aims of helping students assimilate classroom learning with the realities of practice and of mobilizing field instructors' motivation. Conclusions: The 12-session intervention was found effective in reducing children's disruptive behavior. Analysis of feedback from students, field instructors, and head teachers pinpointed the program's important role in facilitating student training.