Issues at the clinical-research interface: placebo effect control groups
Silbergeld, S.; Manderscheid, R.W.; Soeken, D.R.
Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease 163(3): 147-153
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-3018 PMID: 784908 Document Number: 96679
At the clinical-research interface, controls are a significant issue in group therapy evaluation. The authors describe and analyze their unique experience with placebo effect control groups conducted prior to brief, group psychotherapy for married couples. Procedures are outlined and participant reactions noted. Solicited ratings and spontaneous comments provide assessment data. The evidence suggests the feasibility of placebo effect control groups in the context studied. Proposed methodological refinements and clinical implications may be useful for future research efforts.