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The group psychotherapy dropout phenomenon revisited
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|December 1, 1978
Summary
High dropout rates in group therapy, despite screening, may be essential for group cohesion. Therapists disliked dropouts, viewing them as hostile. Reconceptualizing dropout
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Group Therapy Dynamics
Background:
- Patient screening and preparation are crucial for group therapy success.
- High dropout rates remain a challenge in therapeutic settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phenomenon of patient dropout in group therapy.
- To explore the relationship between patient dropout and group cohesiveness.
Main Methods:
- A two-year study involving patients referred for group therapy.
- Extensive screening and preparation protocols were implemented.
- Therapist feedback on patient dropout was collected.
Main Results:
- A significant 29% dropout rate was observed after group therapy commenced.
- Therapists reported disliking and perceiving hostility from patients who dropped out.
- A correlation between dropout and the establishment of group cohesiveness was noted.
Conclusions:
- The dropout phenomenon may be integral to the development of group cohesiveness.
- Therapeutic efforts should focus on understanding and reframing the positive aspects of dropout.
- Rethinking dropout as a potentially constructive element in group therapy is suggested.