Solution-focused brief therapy in schools: A review of the outcome literature

The application of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) with students and in school settings has grown over the past 10 years and has been applied to a number of behavioral and academic problems. This review of the research literature examined the most rigorous outcome studies on SFBT conducted in schools, given its promise within this specific setting and population. In addition, effect size estimates were calculated to further examine the effectiveness, thereby providing more quantitative information for each study. This review found mixed results but SFBT did show promise as a useful approach in working with at-risk students in a school setting, specifically helping students reduce the intensity of their negative feelings, manage their conduct problems, and externalizing behavioral problems.