Refining the Measurement of Curativeness

Abstract

This article presents a rationale for and the implementation of a factor analytic study of a revised curative factor instrument. Valuing of the three factors of catharsis, cohesion, and insight by 161 group members in four settings (community mental health [CMH], Veterans Administration [VA], university counseling center [UCC], and group behavior class [GBC] are reported. Results show CMH group members valuing these factors more than group members from VA, UCC, and GBC. Across all settings, cohesion and catharsis are consistently valued higher than insight. Possible explanations of the findings are given.