The impact of parent child interaction therapy vs cognitive behavioral therapy in children with behavioral disorders: A comparative study
Submission: 01March 2026 | Acceptance: 19 March 2026 | Publication: 31 May 2026
1Dr Allina Mukhtar,2Muhammad Punhal,3Dr Muhammad Nadeem Ashraf,4Dr Nisar e Fatima Changezi, 5Dr RimshaIftikhar,6Dr Nabeera Hayat
1Consultant Pediatrician DHQ
2Consultant Paediatrician CMH LAHORE drmps10@gmail.com.
3Classified Chiild Specialist Combined Military Hospital Lahore
4Consultant Paediatrics, CMH Lahore
5House officer Cmh Lahore Cantt
6Paediatric Resident, Combined Military Hospital Lahore
DOI: https://doi-int.com/10901-10/
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study was to study the impact and to compare parent child interaction therapy vs cognitive behavioral therapy in children with behavioral disorders
Study design: Comparative experimental Study
Place and duration of study: Department of Pediatrics, Tertiary Care Hospital, Lahore from September 2024- Feburary 2025.
Methodology: 60 children aged 5–12 years diagnosed with behavioral disorders, including ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and conduct disorder were included in this study. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups receiving either PCIT or CBT for 12 weeks. Behavioral outcomes were assessed before and after intervention using standardized tools including the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p <0.05..
Results: The findings showed that both PCIT and CBT significantly improved behavioral symptoms among children with behavioral disorders. However, the PCIT group demonstrated greater reductions in aggression, impulsivity, disruptive behaviors, and parent–child conflict compared to the CBT group. CBT was also effective in improving emotional regulation and coping skills. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between pre- and post-treatment scores in both groups, with PCIT showing comparatively superior outcomes in managing externalizing behavioral problems and strengthening parent–child relationships through active parental involvement.
Conclusion: Both Parent–Child Interaction Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are effective treatments for childhood behavioral disorders. However, PCIT demonstrated greater effectiveness in reducing disruptive behaviors and improving parent–child relationships.
Key words:parent child interaction therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, comparison