Addressing Issues in Kids with Callous and Emotional Traits: Modified Therapy Approach

Professor Kamona and her colleagues have developed a modified version of Parent Child Interaction Therapy to address the issues kids with callous and emotional traits face. It focuses on increasing warmth and emotional closeness between parent and child. The therapy involves a therapist behind a two-way mirror providing real-time encouragement to the parent. It also de-emphasizes punishment and instead focuses on rewards. Lastly, it coaches children to better recognize emotions, particularly distress.