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Terminators and remainers in child psychiatry: the patient-treatment fit
Insights
Child psychiatric treatment termination was analyzed in 432 patients. Prematurely ending therapy was more common in hospitalized children and those in frequent psychotherapy, with links to diagnosis and social class.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Mental Health Services Research
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing treatment adherence is crucial in child psychiatry.
- Premature termination of mental health services can negatively impact patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between premature treatment termination and patient characteristics.
- To identify variables associated with termination against medical advice in child psychiatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 432 child psychiatry patient case records.
- Examination of variables including social class, diagnosis, and treatment modality.
Main Results:
- Termination against medical advice was more frequent in hospitalized children.
- Higher frequency of psychotherapy sessions per week correlated with increased termination.
- Significant interactions were observed between diagnosis and treatment, and social class and treatment.
Conclusions:
- Hospitalization status and treatment intensity are associated with premature termination in child psychiatry.
- Patient diagnosis and social class interact with treatment variables to influence adherence.
- Further research is needed to develop strategies to improve treatment retention.
Abstract:
In a study of child psychiatry patients, 432 case records were analyzed to determine the relationship between premature treatment termination and such variables as social class, diagnosis, and nature of treatment. Termination against medical advice occurred more frequently in children who were hospitalized and in those who were seen in psychotherapy more than once a week. Significant interactions were found between diagnosis and treatment variables, and between social class and treatment variables.