Some parameters of verbal behavior that reliably differentiate novice from experienced psychotherapists.

This study utilized a modification of Strupp's film method to focus upon the verbal patterns of experienced and novice psychotherapists. Results indicated some striking differences between the 2 groups of S therapists with experts relative to novices using more nonquestions and averaging more words per given statement. These and other differences are discussed with particular reference to several samples of the therapists' verbal protocols depicting the interaction between S therapist and the film patient.