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Interaction Structures in the Psychodynamic Psychotherapy of a Girl Diagnosed with Adjustment Disorder

Abstract

The scientific literature indicates the need for studies focusing on the process and outcomes of child psychodynamic psychotherapy. In addition, the relationship and the interaction structures between therapist and patient have been emphasized as an important factor of therapeutic change. The aim of this study was to analyze interaction structures in the psychodynamic psychotherapy of a child with adjustment disorder. We conducted a descriptive, longitudinal study based on the systematic case study procedure. The participants were an 8-year-old girl and her therapist. Forty psychotherapy sessions were analyzed using the Child Psychotherapy Q-Set (CPQ). Five interaction structures were identified on the basis of factor analysis of main components with varimax rotation. They describe different patterns of interaction, using supportive, directive, and interpretive approaches. The importance of interaction structures as a vector of change, therapist variables, and the trend toward integrative approaches in child psychotherapy are discussed.

Keywords:
Child psychotherapy; single case study; process research; interaction structures

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