[Predictors of Early Treatment Termination in Patients Detained under §64 StGB - A Literature Review].

Abstract

Background: The treatment of addicted offenders detained under § 64 of the German Criminal Code can be terminated prematurely. There is an extensive literature on predictors of such premature termination concerned with factors established before treatment.

Objective: The aim of this paper is to present predictors of premature termination that become apparent during the course of therapy.

Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search and included 16 publications.

Results: Patients and therapists rated impulsivity/aggressiveness, substance use relapses and a lack of patient-therapist relationship as negative predictors. Both groups assessed as beneficial the presence of motivation and a positive social network.

Conclusion: To prevent early treatment termination a positive patient-therapist relationship, motivation and working through incidents during therapy is essential.