Training Mexican American mental health personnel in behavior therapy.

Fourteen Mexican American mental health workers were trained in basic behavior therapy principles and behavior contracting in 10 weekly, 2 hr sessions. A significant increase was found in knowledge of principles, and attitudes toward behavior therapy became more positive. In addition, clinical skill in doing a behavior analysis and formulating a behavior therapy plan also improved.

Training community-based, Asian-American mental health personnel in behavior modification.

Sixteen Asian-American and Pacific Island mental health professionals received 10 weekly, 2-hour training sessions on behavior modification and its application, in particular, to Asian-American clients. A three-fold assessment of the training results revealed: a) a significant increase in knowledge of behavior modification principles, b) a significant increase in ability to accomplish a behavioral analysis and behavioral treatment plan, and c) a significant increase in one of three attitudes toward behavior modification: oriented activity. In general, the training was rated highly and, perhaps more importantly, was viewed as having relevance for this particular minority population which often under utilizes mental health services.