The marathon encounter group: A review of the outcome literature.

Abstract

45 investigations of the marathon encounter group are systematically evaluated. Comparisons are made within sections on time format, Ss, leaders, treatment, testing periods, and outcome criteria. All but 6 studies used "normal" college volunteers as Ss. Some positive results were found in varied aspects of personal or social functioning, although the group effects seemed to be temporary. The methodological shortcomings are considerable. The superiority of the marathon encounter group over traditional spaced group treatment is not established, and the treatment methods most effective in the extended session still need to be identified. Critical limitations of the studies indicate that further investigations of variables predictive of desired outcomes should use treatment control groups, defined treatment formats, multiple outcome criteria, and comprehensive follow-up investigations. (3 p ref)

Effectiveness of the intensive group process-retreat model in the treatment of bulimia

“…Kilman and Sotile (1976) reviewed the treatment outcome literature on 45 studies of the marathon encounter group. It is important to note that 39 of the studies used college volunteers as subjects.…”

“…Interpretation of outcome criteria are conservative due to the heavy reliance on self-report and the fact that only 9 studies used behavioral criteria to assess the treatment effects. Kilman and Sotile (1976), conclude that marathon groups "evidence positive results in varied aspects of personal and social functioning, although the group effects seem to be temporary" (p. 827). Results did not support the superiority of marathon groups over other types of time formats (Kilman and Sotile, 1976).…”

“…Kilman and Sotile (1976), conclude that marathon groups "evidence positive results in varied aspects of personal and social functioning, although the group effects seem to be temporary" (p. 827). Results did not support the superiority of marathon groups over other types of time formats (Kilman and Sotile, 1976). Greenberg (1972) used self-report ratings to document the effectiveness of a weekend marathon group.…”

“…In summary, intensive group treatments suffer from many of the same difficulties in interpretation that limit the evaluation of individual therapy (Bergin and Strupp, 1972;Kilman and Sotile, 1976). The majority of studies have not used standardized measures and 50% of the studies did not include a follow-up measure of treatment outcome (Kilman and Sotile, 1976).…”

“…The majority of studies have not used standardized measures and 50% of the studies did not include a follow-up measure of treatment outcome (Kilman and Sotile, 1976). While favorable results have been reported in some studies, particularly when aspects of personal functioning or self-esteem has been measured, additional research using control groups and adequate follow-up are needed.…”