Interrelating research processes of process research.

Abstract

Given the contextual boundedness of process variables, 3 assumptions implicit in present process research are questioned: Process variables (a) have fixed meanings, (b) discretely contribute to outcomes, and (c) have a decontextualized net worth, evaluated by their correlations with outcomes. From a systemic perspective, a conceptual framework is suggested that integrates both theory-driven and discovery-oriented strategies into a cyclical, ecologically oriented model. Experiments, observations of change events, and detailed descriptions partake in this cyclical model, informing and enriching each other. The core of this integration is a transactional conception that sees change processes as mutually defining rather than interacting with each other, thus leading to holistic examinations of changes of pattern in addition to patterns of change. The transactional core serves as the point of departure and home base for both theory-driven and discovery-oriented research strategies.

Therapist affirmation and the process and outcome of psychotherapy: Two sequential analytic studies

“…However, such studies are typically based on summary or average scores of particular events, or ratings of perceptions following an entire session. A better understanding of the operation of process variables is gained when they are considered in the specific interpersonal context in which they occur (see Greenberg & Pinsof, 1986;Lambert & Hill, 1994;Shoham-Saloman, 1990), and context may be a necessary consideration in understanding how particular processes relate to patient change. In fact, it is hard to know whether a therapist behavior is appropriate without knowing the context in which it is delivered.…”

Process research in understanding and applying psychological therapies

“…Suh, O'Malley, and Strupp (1986) examined the frequency of a number of process variables in the first three sessions and failed to find a relationship to outcome, but when the pattern of change of variables over these sessions was examined, process-outcome links began to emerge; specifically, increased therapist warmth and exploration and patient participation were highly correlated with outcome. Other evidence suggests that the researcher cannot assume that process variables have a meaning outside the therapeutic context in which they occur (Shoham-Salomon, 1990). For example, silence may have a different meaning early in therapy compared with later; likewise interpretations may have an impact if suitable at a given time, but the same interpretation would have little impact elsewhere (Silberschatz et al, 1986).…”

Psychoanalytic psychotherapy and outcome research: A qualitative study

“…Furthermore, clinicians could not use the results because the questions asked have no clinical relevance (Garfield 1990, Greenberg 1986, Shohan-Salomon 1990. Sandell (1987) stressed that there seems to be a paradoxical contrast in the researchers' attitude regarding the trustworthiness of patients before and after therapy.…”