An analysis of pretraining work behavior as a composition variable in group psychotherapy

Pretraining work behavior was investigated as a composition variable for group psychotherapy. The work behavior of sixty-six outpatients in nine pretraining groups was measured. Six of the pretraining groups were recomposed into either high or low work therapy groups on the basis of the pretraining scores. The other three groups entered therapy intact. Audiotapes from the first six months were analyzed to assess therapy process. Outcome measures were administered before therapy and after six months of therapy. Hypotheses concerned the effects of composition on process and outcome and the relationship between pretraining work behavior and outcome. The results suggest that pretraining work behavior has merit as a composition variable and may have promise as a selection variable. Therapeutic uses of pretraining are discussed.