Motivation-adaptive skills-trauma resolution (MASTR) therapy for adolescents with conduct problems: An open trial

Trauma is proposed as a key to understanding the development and persistence of adolescent conduct problems, in conjunction with other contributing factors. A trauma-focused individual therapy approach is presented as one example of how this population might be more effectively treated. This approach features motivational interviewing, self-control training (cognitive-behavioral therapy), and trauma resolution (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). This paper reports on an open trial of six adolescents with school and conduct problems who received school-based Motivation-Adaptive Skills-Trauma Resolution (MASTR) treatment. Reductions in post-traumatic stress, related symptoms, and problem behaviors, along with improved school performance, indicate the value of further study of this treatment approach.