Functional Family Therapy (FFT) is outcome-driven family therapy intervention for youth who have demonstrated a range of maladaptive, acting out behaviors, and personality disorders, and may be at risk for institutionalization and other serious consequences. The therapy focuses on cognitive and emotional components necessary to change anti-social behavior. Program developers state that FFT is effective because it emphasizes aspects that enhance protective factors and reduce risk, including the risk of treatment dropout. FFT is appropriate for implementation in communities that have identified poor family relationships and negative parenting practices as risk factors, and/or communities wishing to reduce rates of juvenile incarceration or foster care placement. The intervention is the culmination of 28 years of data collection and clinical experience involving hundreds of therapists and thousands of families and demonstrated effectiveness. FFT is one of ten interventions selected by the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence for inclusion among its "Blueprints" programs. It is also highlighted in the 1998 Annual Report on School Safety. FFT has a comprehensive training and implementation program that meets the national standards set by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) and CSPV.

Target Population

- Grade Level: from  Sixth grade to  Twelfth grade