Support and psychoeducation for parents of hospitalized mentally ill children

Support and psychoeducational techniques were used in a group for parents of children hospitalized for psychiatric reasons. The parent's group model extends from more traditional, supportive, expressive group treatment to the use of didactic, concrete, cognitive components similar to the psychoeducational model used for families of mentally ill adults. Skills for dealing with limit setting, anger, and discipline were taught in a group climate that allowed for full expression of parental concerns. Guidelines for such a group program, including parent management techniques, are provided. The combination of modalities is the model's strength.