SELF-CONCEPT IMPROVEMENT DURING AND AFTER SHORT-TERM ANXIETY-PROVOKING PSYCHOTHERAPY - A PRELIMINARY GROWTH CURVE STUDY

Using hierarchical linear model procedures (Bryk & Raudenbush, 1987, 1 992) growth curve analyses were performed to examine the course, rate, and correlates of self-concept development during 20 sessions long sh ort-term anxiety-provoking psychotherapy (STABB, Sifneos, 1992) and a two-year posttermination period. The control coefficient from the SASB Introject Questionnaire (Benjamin, 1984) were used to capture aspects of client self-concept. The sample consisted of 13 clients suitable f or STAPP and with mainly anxiety diagnoses. Therapists were in postgra duate manual-guided STABB training. Results showed that self-concept i mprovement during as well as after treatment occurred at a steady yet significantly variable rate among clients. Clients showed significant growth toward self-freeing after termination of therapy. This growth w as faster for clients with greater initial symptom improvement. This f inding is discussed in relation to Howard's three-phase model of psych otherapy outcome.