Prediction of dropping out in time-limited, interpretive individual psychotherapy.

Predictors of dropping out were investigated for patients who participated in time-limited, interpretive individual psychotherapy in a randomized clinical trial. A sample of 22 dropouts was compared with a sample of 22 matched completers on pretherapy and therapy process variables. A modified Vanderbilt Psychotherapy Process Scale was used to assess patient hostility and patient and therapist exploration and focus on transference. Pretherapy predictors, which included demographic, diagnostic, and initial disturbance outcome variables, did not significantly differentiate the two groups. Therapeutic alliance, dynamic and supportive work, patient exploration, and focus on transference significantly differentiated dropouts from completers. For dropouts, there was a weaker alliance, less work, less exploration, and greater focus on transference. Examination of the last session of dropouts revealed a nonproductive pattern characterized by resistance and transference interpretation. Implications and limitations associated with the study are considered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)