Client behavior and therapist helping skills in individual and group treatment of aggressive boys

This study compared processes in individual and group psychotherapy for 51 aggressive boys, measured via the Client Behavior System (C. E. Hill & K. M. O'Brien, 1999), and their 51 therapists, measured via the Helping Skills System (C. E. Hill & K. M. O'Brien, 1999). It explored the pattern of growth of each behavior as well as the relation between client and therapist behaviors. Analyses were performed in a logistic regression within a hierarchical linear model. Results indicated reduced resistance and increased insight and therapeutic change in both treatment formats, with few between-format differences. Two changes were found in therapist skills as a function of sessions (on interpretation and self-disclosure), both in group treatment. The therapist skill most positively related to client responses was asking questions, and the one most negatively related to them was presenting challenges. Several between-format differences were found in the relationship between client and therapist behavior. The discussion focuses on applications for individual and group treatment.