How to Include Analytic Patients in Research and How This Affects Treatment

Abstract

Research in psychoanalysis is in many ways dependent on some level of engagement with patients in ongoing treatments. The use of patients as study participants may complicate the process of research as well as affect treatment outcomes, and, thus, requires that researchers and clinicians give careful thought to the ways in which they involve patients in research. This article discusses the impact that empirical study may have on the treatment, both positive and negative, while also keeping in mind the ethical issues raised by engaging active patients in research. The importance of balancing research design with patient experience is carefully considered, and suggestions are offered for designing studies that may minimize the potential for negative impact while maintaining the treatment enhancing aspects of research.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

A. Jill Clemence

A. Jill Clemence, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor at Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; an Associate Editor of the Journal of Personality Assessment; and a member of the Affiliate Faculty of the Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, Massachusetts.

Jane G. Tillman

Jane G. Tillman, Ph.D., ABPP, is the Evelyn Stefansson Nef Director of the Erikson Institute for Education and Research at the Austen Riggs Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.

John M. Poston

John M. Poston, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at Rosemead School of Psychology at Biola University, and a practicing psychologist in La Mirada, California.