Using Group Therapy to Enhance Treatment Compliance in First Episode Schizophrenia

Group therapy for first episode of schizophrenia patients is examined for its effect on treatment compliance and dropout rates. Results from data collected over a two-year period on 77 patients in the first episode of schizophrenia show that there is a statistically significant link (p < .001, Fischer's Exact) between group participation and lowering the number of dropouts. Clinical case data is used to illustrate strategies for keeping patients in group and compliant with treatment. The statistical and the case data support the conclusion that group participation should be encouraged for patients in the first episode of schizophrenia. This report adds to an increasing awareness in the literature about the benefits of group treatment for schizophrenia.