Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory Assessments as Predictors of Behavioral Change in Multisystemic Therapy and Functional Family Therapy in Norway

Background: Multisystemic Therapy (MST) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT) are evidence-based Blueprint programs shown to be effective towards youth problem behaviors. Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate treatment outcomes following MST and FFT among Norwegian youths with serious behavior problems. Research design: Routine Outcome Monitoring (ROM) data of the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory at intake and post-test was used along with measures of five national treatment goals. Study sample: The study is based on two samples of youths assigned to MST (n = 2018) and FFT (n = 453). Analysis: Data were analyzed separately for MST and FFT, to explore changes during treatment and accomplishment of the treatment goals. Results: At intake youths in MST showed a significant higher level of risk factors compared to those referred to FFT. Significant reductions in risk factors and behavioral problems were evident for both interventions. Follow-up results demonstrated sustained reductions of problem behaviors. Conclusion: Both treatments decrease risk factors and increase the completion of outcome goals. Implications of the results are discussed.