Conclusion
FFT is one of the current generation of family-based treatments for adolescent behavior problems. As both a prevention and an intervention program, FFT has been implemented in various treatment contexts and with culturally diverse client populations. The success of FFT is due to its integration of a clear, comprehensive, and multisystemic clinical model with ongoing research on clinical process and outcomes. FFT also includes a systematic training and community implementation program. The results of more than 30 years of clinical research suggest that by following these principles, FFT can reduce recidivism and/or prevent the onset of delinquency. These results can be accomplished with treatment costs well below those of traditional services and other interventions.
Unique to FFT is its systematic yet individualized family-focused approach to juvenile crime, violence, drug abuse, and other related problems. The phases of FFT provide therapists with specific goals for each family interaction. Although systematic, each phase is guided by core principles that help the therapist adjust and adapt the goals of the phase to the unique characteristics of the family. In this way, FFT ensures treatment fidelity while remaining respectful of individual families and cultures and unique community needs.
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