Of 140 patients seen at a psychiatric clinic serving a predominantly
black, low-income population, 65% attended for four or more visits.
Patients over age 30 and those with a diagnosis of psychosis or personality
disorder remained in therapy for significantly longer periods than the rest
of the group. Failure to prescribe medication was associated with early
dropout, but this effect seemed to be attenuated with duration of therapy.
The race of the patients and therapists did not seem to influence
continuation in treatment, but such an influence may have been masked by
differences in the therapists' experience.Abstract Teaser