Brian Redford, Brigham Young University
Psychology
Small group treatment is a well-recognized as an effective intervention for persons diagnosed with schizophrenia. The most frequently used and efficacious types of small group treatment include psychoeducational, multifamily and skills groups. These groups are second only to psychopharmacology and frequency of use (Burlingame, Strauss & Joyce, 2013). Using the following search terms (group psychotherapy OR group counseling OR group treatment AND schizophrenia from 1990-2000) 62 studies were identified that used the aforementioned small group treatments. Of these, 29 were excluded based on strict inclusion criteria (i.e., sample size, study design, statistical methodology). 26 studies produced active group comparisons with controls, 3 studies produced single group pre-post comparisons and 5 studies produced waiting list control comparisons studying 2,248 patients. We conducted a meta-analysis using several descriptive (e.g. setting, ethnicity) and moderator (e.g. age of onset, group type) variables examining outcomes on key dimensions (e.g. relapse, hospitalization, medication adherence). Effect sizes estimated treatment effects (pre to post) and if these effects were maintained (post to follow up). Findings are examined in reference to treatment recommendations, feasibility of implementation and evidence based recommendations with respect to illness, protective, mechanisms of action and risk factors.