Outcomes of a 'Train the Trainers' Approach to an Acceptance Based Stress Intervention in a Specialist Challenging Behaviour Service

Background: The application of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) principles to occupational stress is a relatively recent development, and a pilot study by Noone and Hastings (2009) suggests it may be a helpful approach with staff in ID services. The aims of the present study were to replicate the workshop format developed by Noone and Hastings and to expand on this by training a group of 'ACT novices', recruited from the workforce, to deliver the training.

Method and materials: A total of 72 staff working in specialist challenging behaviour services participated in one of six workshops (consisting of a whole day and a half-day follow-up six weeks later) which were staggered over a six-month period. A range of measures were used at five time points (two baseline measures, one post-intervention measure and two follow-up measures) to evaluate the outcome of the intervention.

Results: There were significant improvements at different time points on the General Health Questionnaire, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Depersonalisation sub scale); a number of sub scales on the Staff Stress Questionnaire and the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale. However, there were no significant changes in measures on Acceptance (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire); not, and Values (Support Staff Values Questionnaire), which are key ACT concepts.

Conclusions: The findings compare well to prior studies in the area, particularly when considered within the context of a train the trainers model. However, complete support for an ACT model was not demonstrated which provides opportunities for further research in the field.