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Effect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy on Behavioural Challenges Among Basic Four Pupils with Down Syndrome in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria

Joy Ladi Itodo, Prof. Mallum Yakubu & Prof. Grace Momoh

Abstract

This study examined the effect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) on behavioural challenges among Basic Four pupils with Down syndrome in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria. Down syndrome is associated with cognitive, motor, and behavioral difficulties that impact learning and social interactions. This study employed a true experimental design with a pre-test, post-test control group to investigate the effectiveness of CBT in reducing oppositional behaviour disorder, attention behaviour disorder, thought disorder and social withdrawal disorder. A sample of 12 pupils was selected, with six assigned to the experimental group receiving CBT and six in the control group receiving regular instruction. Data was collected using the Behavior Disorder Checklist (BDC) and analyzed using statistical methods, mean and standard deviation and t-test for independent sample. Results indicated a significant reduction in behavioral challenges among the experimental group compared to the control group. The study concluded that CBT is an effective intervention for improving behavior among children with Down syndrome and recommends its integration into special education programmes and therapeutic interventions.

Keywords

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Down SyndromeBehavioral ChallengesSpecial EducationIntervention Strategies

References

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