Does Project Patch Work?

NATSAP Research Designated Program

Project Patch has been awarded “Gold” Status as a NATSAP Research Designated Program (RDP).  This designation is only given to programs that demonstrate that they are using empirically tested methods to track program effectiveness and outcomes.  Project Patch uses the Youth Outcome Questionaire (YOQ-2.01 for Teens and YOQ-2.0SR for Parents/Adults).  The questionnaire is given at intake, monthly, at discharge, and then post-discharge at six and 12 months.

Data collected as part of participation in the RDP inform therapists and is used for overall program evaluation and improvements.  Project Patch will continue to explore ways to use this data as well as participate in meaningful research that helps up operate an effective evidence-based program.


Boise State University Study

June 2003, Department of Psychology
Theodore W. McDonald, Jalanie F. Johnson, Win Yin W. Tong

The Study
Boise State University’s department of psychology conducted an independent evaluation in 2003 with 138 parents to measure the success and effectiveness of the Project PATCH treatment program for their teens.  This study provided valuable feedback to PATCH leaders and administrators.  Specifically, the study measured the following:

  • Improvements in target behaviors in the teens before and after completing the Project PATCH Treatment Program;
  • Parents’ perceptions about the success of the Project PATCH treatment program in changing target behaviors in their teen; and
  • Parents’ satisfaction with the program staff who interacted with their teens and with the Youth Program facilities

Results
Overall results of the 56-item survey of the parents of 138 Project PATCH alumni found significant improvements in all 21 target behaviors.  Parents found their child improved the most in the following target behaviors for how they deal with family members and peers:

  • Significant decrease in the frequency of family member conflicts
  • Dramatic improvement in willingness to follow family rules
  • Significantly fewer angry outbursts

Parents also found their child made significant improvements in the following target feelings and behaviors:

  • Feelings of depression, hopelessness, or despair
  • Feelings of worry, anxiousness, or irritability
  • Isolating himself/herself from social contacts
  • Lethargic behaviors or lack of energy

Parents reported significant improvement in all categories, but especially in their child’s ability to respect the views and opinions of others and show responsibility.  Overall, the PATCH treatment program was successful in all categories measuring their child’s social functioning:

  • Willingness to express feelings and to discuss problems
  • Ability to effectively listen to others
  • Showing respect for the views and opinions of others
  • Ability to trust others
  • Ability to work individually on projects
  • Consistently taking responsibility for own actions
  • Exhibiting attitudes of respect for others
  • Ability to set and accomplish personal goals

Parent Satisfaction
Parents were highly satisfied with the PATCH treatment program, leaders, and staff who interacted with their child at the youth program.  They were also highly satisfied with the Youth Program facilities.  Overall, 88 percent of parents of PATCH alumni would recommend Project Patch to other families with children who are experiencing difficulties.

Read the entire report: Boise State Study