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Can we do psychoanalytic outcome research? A feasibility study.
The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis
|September 1, 2000
Summary
Rigorous studies on long-term psychodynamic treatments are feasible. This study shows psychodynamic therapies, including psychoanalysis, can yield positive outcomes and retain patients in research protocols.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Long-term psychodynamic treatments are widely used but lack rigorous outcome studies.
- Previous research has faced challenges in patient recruitment and retention for psychodynamic therapy studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of recruiting and retaining patients in psychodynamic treatments for research.
- To evaluate patient and therapist adherence to study protocols.
- To gather preliminary data on treatment outcomes after one year.
Main Methods:
- A feasibility study involving patients undergoing psychoanalysis (N=9) and psychodynamic psychotherapy (N=15).
- Data collection at baseline, six months, and one year, including self-report measures, structured interviews, and audio recordings.
- Analysis of recruitment rates, retention, compliance, and clinical changes.
Main Results:
- Recruitment rates were 27% for psychoanalysis and 83% for psychotherapy.
- High retention rates were observed among participants who remained in treatment.
- Significant positive changes were noted on various measures after one year, despite a small sample size.
- Over 60% of patients presented with current Axis I disorders (affective or anxiety).
Conclusions:
- Demonstrating therapeutic effects of psychodynamic treatments, including psychoanalysis, is possible through rigorous research.
- Improving clinical perceptions of research is crucial for future methodologically sound outcome studies.
- Feasibility of conducting outcome research in psychodynamic treatments is supported by high retention and positive preliminary results.