Group cognitive-behavioral treatment for excessive parental self-blame and guilt

The effect of a short-term group intervention to reduce self-blame and guilt in parents of children with severe disabilities was examined. Thirty-four mothers were randomly assigned to treatment and waiting list control groups. They participated in classes led by a counselor on topics relating to cognitive processes associated with guilt and self-blame. Results showed significant reductions in measures of guilt, negative automatic thoughts, internal negative attributions, and depression. Theoretical and treatment literature concerning self-blame and guilt was briefly reviewed and the derivative treatment was described.