What Are Expectations and Why Are They Important?

Definition of Expectations

Expectations are defined as future-directed beliefs about forthcoming events regarding our environment, others, and ourselves (Kirsch, 1985; Laferton et al., 2017; Rief et al., 2015).

Different Expectations in Psychotherapy

Why Expectations Are Important

Negative outcome expectations measured at the initial assessment are associated with…

Higher dropout rates

(Bowker et al., 2025; Callahan et al., 2009)

Lower therapeutic alliance

(Constantino et al., 2021)

Poorer treatment outcomes

(Constantino et al., 2018; Dew & Bickman, 2005; Greenberg et al., 2006)

→ Change negative outcome expectations for optimising treatment outcomes!