Non-verbal affective communication as a factor in psychotherapy.

Examines aspects of general and specific factors in psychotherapy as they relate to interpersonal variables identified in analytic literature and in empirical research. It is suggested that 1 of the reasons why interpretation of the research concerning the role of empathy and understanding in the successful patient–therapist relationship is difficult and the results unclear is that many aspects of the interpersonal environment are more subtle and complex than existing research implies. Therapists of many persuasions who wish to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy may need to examine some of the less obvious aspects of the therapeutic environment. Evidence suggests that nonverbal affective interactive states are important as change producing agents. Even when specific techniques are applied, emotional aspects of the therapeutic relationship may have a powerful effect. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)