Purpose:

This study explores the outcome of the intervention combined parent child–cognitive behavioral therapy (CPC-CBT) for physically abused children.

Method:

This study includes a clinical sample of children (n = 62) referred to Child Welfare Service due to reports of child physical abuse who completed CPC-CBT. A pretest/posttest design was applied to assess changes on the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (TSCC) after treatment and was compared with normative values. In addition, the occurrence of corporal punishment from pre to posttest was explored.

Results:

Children reported a significant decrease in parental use of corporal punishment after treatment and a significant reduction in symptoms associated with trauma (decreased to normal values for TSCC). The positive changes remained at the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

The CPC-CBT intervention seemed to decrease parental use of corporal punishment and increase the well-being of children. Clinical implications are discussed.