Exploring changes in family functioning when a child participates in a <scp>School‐Based</scp> Filial Therapy program

Child focus is a central construct within Bowen family systems theory (Bowen theory). A clinical implication that mental health treatment focusing on child may unwittingly reinforce the operation of child-focused processes, which undermine rather than enhance well-being. The concept in presents significant implications for professionals working school settings and fields such as children's health, are inherently child-focused. guiding theoretical framework School-Based Filial Therapy (SBFT). SBFT play therapy intervention was initially established remote outer-regional New South Wales, Australia response to low availability services barriers associated with caregiver engagement treatment. It involves trained personnel facilitating therapeutic sessions children experiencing emotional–behavioural problems. occurs grounds, during hours, members do not participate intervention. This mixed-methods study examines impact participation upon functioning. Interviews caregivers (n = 10) who participated 10 were analysed using content analysis. Quantitative data collected Differentiation Self Inventory – Short Form Visual Analogue Scale Family Functioning. Wilcoxon signed rank test used analyse pre- post-data. Qualitative outcomes indicated changes categories functioning, extended whilst processes remained dominant but changed intensity valence following SBFT.