Cited by 290Psychotherapy Techniques and ApplicationsPsychoanalysis and Psychopathology ResearchTeam Dynamics and Performance

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Cohesion in group therapy: A meta-analysis.

Burlingame, Gary M., McClendon, Debra Theobald, Yang, Chongming·2018·Psychotherapy

DOI 10.1037/pst0000173

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Abstract

Cohesion is the most popular of the relationship constructs in the group therapy literature. This article reviews common definitions of cohesion, the most frequently studied measures, and a measure that may clarify group relations using two latent factors (quality and structure) to explain common variance among frequently used group relationship instruments. We present the results of a meta-analysis examining the relation between group cohesion and treatment outcome in 55 studies. Results indicate that the weighted aggregate correlation between cohesion and treatment outcome was statistically significant, r = .26, z = 6.54 (p < .01), reflecting a moderate effect size (d = .56). Heterogeneity of effect sizes was significant (Q = 260.84, df = 54, p < .001) and high (I2 = 79.3%), supporting moderator analyses. Six moderator variables were found to significantly predict the magnitude of the cohesion-outcome association (type of outcome measure, leader interventions to increase cohesion, theoretical orientation, type of group, emphasis on group interaction, and dose or number of group sessions). Patient contributions, diversity considerations, and evidence-based therapeutic practices are highlighted. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

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Additional file 9 of Feasibility of a multidisciplinary group videoconferencing approach for chronic low back pain: a randomized, open-label, controlled, pilot clinical trial (EN-FORMA)
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Additional file 7 of Feasibility of a multidisciplinary group videoconferencing approach for chronic low back pain: a randomized, open-label, controlled, pilot clinical trial (EN-FORMA)
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Additional file 4 of Feasibility of a multidisciplinary group videoconferencing approach for chronic low back pain: a randomized, open-label, controlled, pilot clinical trial (EN-FORMA)
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Additional file 10 of Feasibility of a multidisciplinary group videoconferencing approach for chronic low back pain: a randomized, open-label, controlled, pilot clinical trial (EN-FORMA)
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Influential

Authors: Burlingame, G. M., McClendon, D. T., & Yang, C.
Affiliations: Brigham Young University (US)
ORCID: Burlingame, Gary M.
Yang, Chongming
Venue: Psychotherapy
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Published: 2018-12
Volume: 55
Issue: 4
Pages: 384-398
ISSN: 0033-3204 (ISSN-L)
1939-1536
DOI: 10.1037/pst0000173
OpenAlex: W2895900470
Cited by: 290
References: 96
Citations by year: 2026: 53 · 2025: 60 · 2024: 38 · 2023: 39 · 2022: 37 · 2021: 34 · 2020: 17 · 2019: 12
FWCI: 18.54
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: closed
Locations: Psychotherapy (publishedVersion)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications
Social Sciences › Psychology › Clinical Psychology › Psychoanalysis and Psychopathology Research
Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Team Dynamics and Performance
Keywords: group cohesion, group therapy, treatment outcomes, group relations, group interaction, theoretical orientation, group types, patient diversity, evidence-based treatment
MeSH terms: Mental Disorders, Humans, Interpersonal Relations, Psychotherapy, Group, Treatment Outcome

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Cohesion in group therapy: A meta-analysis.

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