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Assessing the statistical and personal significance of the method of levels
Timothy A Carey1, Margaret Carey, Richard J Mullan
1Centre for Applied Psychology, University of Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. tim.carey@canberra.edu.au
Background:
Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) suggests that psychological distress can be conceptualized as the by-product of conflicted control systems.
Method:
Using a program of psychotherapy based on the principles of PCT called the Method of Levels (MOL), a 12-month study was conducted with 120 patient participants and 4 clinicians. In this study, analyses of statistical significance were conducted. Qualitative data were also analysed to understand psychotherapy from patients' perspectives. Data were collected on the attendance patterns of patients, their ages, referral problem, and socio-economic background. A standardized questionnaire measured pre and post treatment effects. The null hypothesis of no difference between pre and post treatment scores was examined by the derivation of p values and the construction of 95% confidence intervals.
Results:
In all cases the null hypothesis was rejected.
Conclusions:
Results suggest that MOL is a useful form of psychotherapy that warrants further investigation.
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