Work

The Role and Relevance of the Working Alliance in Forensic Treatment: A Meta-Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: The working alliance has been extensively studied and consistently linked to improved treatment outcomes; however, existing reviews have almost exclusively focused on non-forensic samples, which differ significantly in client characteristics, treatment goals, and settings. Therefore, prior reviews may not generalize to forensic contexts. Seeking to fill this gap in the literature, a meta-analysis of the working alliance in forensic treatment contexts was conducted and its relationship to risk-relevant treatment outcomes was examined featuring k = 21 unique studies. All three treatment outcomes examined—treatment dropout ( d = 0.390), institutional misconduct ( d = 0.374), and community recidivism ( d = 0.196)—were significantly and negatively associated with the working alliance. These findings demonstrate the working alliance as a meaningful predictor of treatment outcomes in forensic contexts. Implications for research and practice are discussed to promote more favorable treatment outcomes for forensic clients.

Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology

DOI: 10.1177/0306624x261448931

Authors: Grant Forrest, Mark E. Olver, Keira C. Stockdale

Institution: University of Saskatchewan

Language: English

Topic: Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650