Oregon Social Learning Centre

The TFCO programme model is rooted in studies conducted in the 1960s and 1970s by Gerald Patterson and John Reid at the Oregon Social Learning Center (OSLC).  Social learning theory and its principles form the basis for the TFCO model. Numerous research studies have been conducted to identify key predictors of child and adolescent conduct problems, antisocial behaviour, and mental health problems. More than 20 years of research in these areas led to the development of the TFCO model.

The TFCO model was established by Patricia Chamberlain and colleagues in 1983; it focused on treating serious and chronic juvenile offenders. 

In 1996, Phil Fisher and colleagues developed the TFCO-P model to focus specifically on the needs of preschool-aged children. This programme reduces challenging behaviour and stabilises placements for children while in care. It also focuses on increasing foster children’s attachment to caregivers, and on improving permanency outcomes. Finally, TFCO-P promotes school readiness through a therapeutic playgroup.

TFCO programmes are now funded by multiple public agencies and organisations around the United States and in Europe.