The effects of role preparation for psychotherapy on immigrant clients seeking mental health services in Hawaii.

The present study sought to examine the effects of a standard role induction (role preparation) procedure on immigrant patients having their first therapy experience. Thirty immigrant clients who met selection criteria and were seeking treatment at a community mental health center in Hawaii were assigned to either role induction (therapy preparation intervention) or a placebo intervention prior to receiving therapy offered by 10 professional therapists. The effects of the role-induction or placebo manipulation were assessed by a measure of expectancy, satisfaction ratings, and data on premature termination and attendance. Results indicated that the patients who received the role preparation procedure as well as placebo patients had changed their expectations in appropriate ways by the end of therapy. The role-prepared patients, however, became less dependent on their therapist for support, advice, and direction. In addition, the role-prepared patients were more satisfied with therapy, rated themselves as more changed, and dropped out of treatment at significantly lower rates. The implications of the results for service delivery to immigrant patients were examined.