Evaluating collaborative & proactive solutions across settings: Mini meta-analysis of behavioral outcomes and relational implications

Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) is a relational intervention for children with oppositional or externalizing behaviors that target frustration tolerance, flexibility, and problem solving rather than compliance. We conducted a systematic review and mini meta-analysis of 12 studies evaluating CPS in youth aged 0–18. Using random-effects models, CPS showed outcomes equivalent to comparator interventions (e.g., Parent Management Training) at post-treatment (g = −0.04) and follow-up (g = 0.04), alongside large within-group improvements (g = 0.98–1.03). Despite risks of bias typical in psychosocial trials, findings support CPS as an evidence-based, skill-building alternative warranting further large-scale evaluation.