Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Virginia Smith

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine in detail the experiences of school counselors with treating anger issues in school-age children from foster care homes. In particular, the study determined the counselors’ experiences using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat anger and whether the interventions were effective. The aim was to shape policy regarding handling children in foster care and overall child social services. Using two methods, the study employed a generic qualitative research design to cover the topic. One method was the narrative literature review, and the other was collecting data using interviews with five counselors adept at treating foster care children with anger issues. The participants selected for the interviews were school counselors, and the sample selection was purposive. The interviews were semistructured to allow a proper explanation of the details regarding CBT with regard to anger management. A central postulate of the study was that counselors can use CBT to address anger management, albeit slowly. Interviews with participants revealed that CBT was used to address anger challenges in foster children through emotional, social, and cognitive-based techniques. The counselors described the benefits and challenges associated with using CBT in a school-based setting. Recommendations based on evidence from the counselors are provided on how to use CBT in school settings to aid in the treatment of anger management among elementary school-aged foster care children. Findings may be used by counselors for positive social change through helping foster care children deal with their anger.

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