The effects of relaxation training and parental involvement on the behaviour of learning disabled children

The purpose of this study was to determine whether parental involvement increased the effectiveness of muscle relaxation activities used to reduce problem behaviour in learning disabled children. 12 learning disabled children were assigned to one of three grops: a relaxation training only group, a relaxation training with parental involvement and a control group. Both treatment groups participated in three 30 minute sessions per week for five weeks. All three groups were assessed before and after the treatment period using the Child Behaviour Checklist. Statistical calculations showed that neither group performed better than the control group. The reasons for the lack of significant results will be discussed along with ideas for future research.