Understanding the role of emotion and expertise in psychotherapy: An application of dynamical systems mathematical modeling to an entire course of therapy.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The therapeutic relationship continues to be one of the most important factors in therapeutic outcomes. Given the place of emotion in the definition of the therapeutic relationship, as well as the demonstrated positive impact that emotional expression has on therapeutic process and outcome, it stands to reason that studying the emotional exchange between the therapist and client further would be warranted.

Methods

This study used a validated observational coding system--the Specific Affect Coding System (SPAFF) and a theoretical mathematical model to analyze behaviors which make up the therapeutic relationship. Specifically, the researchers used to codify relationship-building behaviors between an expert therapist and his client over the course of six sessions.

SUBMITTER: Diaz P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10126830 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature