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Related Experiment Videos

Optimizing the alliance in couple therapy.

Dianne Symonds1, Adam O Horvath

  • 1Kwantlen University College, 12666 72nd Avenue, Surrey, BC, Canada V3W 2M8. Dianne.symonds@kwantlen.ca

Family Process
|December 21, 2004
PubMed
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In couple therapy, a stronger alliance predicts better outcomes. Agreement between partners and increasing alliance strength over time are key factors for successful therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Psychotherapy Research
  • Family Studies

Background:

  • The therapeutic alliance is a critical factor in psychotherapy outcomes.
  • Understanding the nuances of alliance in couple therapy is essential due to the dyadic relationship.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the complex relationship between alliance and outcome in couple therapy.
  • To identify specific alliance characteristics that predict successful brief couple therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Study involved 47 couples undergoing brief therapy.
  • Self-rated alliance was measured using the Working Alliance Inventory (couple version) after the first and third sessions.

Main Results:

  • A stronger alliance-outcome correlation was observed when partners agreed on alliance strength.

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  • The alliance-outcome link was stronger when the male partner reported a higher alliance than the female partner.
  • Increasing alliance strength for both partners throughout therapy correlated with better outcomes.

    • Conclusions:

    • Partner agreement and dynamic changes in alliance strength are crucial for couple therapy success.
    • Couple therapy involves balancing the partners' pre-existing relationship (allegiance) with their alliance with the therapist.