Treatment Approach and Sequence Effects in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Targeting Emotion Regulation Among Adolescents with Externalizing Problems and Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract Background Over the past years, it has become clear that adapted cognitive behavior therapy can be effective for adolescents with externalizing problems and mild intellectual disabilities or borderline functioning (MID–BIF). Most treatment protocols consist, however, of a combined behavioral approach, even though is actually unclear which approach most suitable these adolescents. This experimental study aimed to examine (cognitive versus behavioral) sequence (cognitive–behavioral behavioral–cognitive) effective. Methods Participating ( N = 42, 50% boys, M age 15.52, SD 1.43) consecutively received emotion regulation training module, but were randomly assigned different module condition. Emotion measured before after modules, continuing weekly assessments. Results indicated by itself, was more than module. In addition, results include exercises (rather before) training. Conclusions These findings highlight importance approaches MID–BIF, show may have effects, depending on order in they are presented.