Psychotherapy instead of social support? The role of the individual support network in the utilization of therapeutic offers

Abstract

The role of the social support network has rarely been addressed regarding the utilization and acceptance of psychotherapy. On the basis of existing research findings, two explanatory models are discussed in this article: The `'deficit model'' holds that the use of psychotherapy is an expression of insufficient support resources; according to the `'competence model'' a supportive network reflects social and relationship skills that also facilitate entering psychotherapy. These mechanisms are studied in depressed patient after discharge from inpatient treatment (N = 207) with respect to the utilization of individual psychotherapy and the acceptance of a cognitive-behavioural group program. As for nonkin support, distict effects emerge in line with an extended competence model. When diagnostic status is accounted for, the acceptance of the group program can be positively predicted by kin instrumental crisis support in remitted patients and negatively in the non-remitted patient group.