Children's participation in consent for psychotherapy and their subsequent response to treatment

This clinical study focused on minors’ participation in decisions to enter psychotherapy and on how such participation and other motivational factors relate to responsiveness to treatment. Findings indicate that, despite apparent competence to participate, few of the 42 youngsters sampled had been involved in the processes during which psychological treatment was prescribed for them. While 75% of the sample directly consented to treatment, only 60% indicated strong interest in getting started, and only 31% were evaluated as motivationally ready to begin. A positive relationship was found between clients’ motivational readiness and treatment adjustment and outcomes. The literature reviewed and discussion of findings underscore the potential impact of nonparticipation on commitment to, adjustment in, and outcomes of psychological treatment.

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