Aim
This study evaluates the relationship of the alliance with youths affected by mental disorders aged 6 to 18 years and the collaboration between their parents and the clinician with the aim to analyse the relation of these variables with therapeutic compliance and clinical outcome.
Methods
The sample consisted of 84 males and 37 females ranging 6-18 years of age. They were split into two categories on the basis of age: = 11 years and > 11 years. Patient alliance and Collaboration with parents were considered and evaluated in the diagnostic process, using the WAI (Working Alliance Inventory). Data about patients’ therapeutic compliance and clinical outcome were collected during a follow-up visit six months later.
Results
“Therapeutic compliance” appears to be a crucial variable in influencing the outcome of psychotherapy. In groups of different ages “collaboration with parents” and “patients’ alliance”, respectively, influence compliance.
Conclusions
This pilot study shows that therapeutic compliance is the most predictive element of positive outcome. If compliance is the element common to all patients aged 6 to 18, factors influencing compliance in under-11s and over-11s are different.