What do we mean by “socialization to the model”? A Delphi study

Background: The term “socialization to the model” is frequently used in the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) literature, but it is unclear exactly what constitutes socialization to the model and there is a paucity of research in this area.
Aims: This study aimed to develop a working definition of “socialization to the model”.
Method: A three-round electronic Delphi technique was used to generate data and to achieve a consensus agreement amongst a panel of experts (N = 9) in response to two questions pertaining to what constitutes “socialization to the model”.
Results: All elements generated in response to the primary question at the first round were retained throughout and scored an IQR of ≤1 at the final round, indicating a consensus that all elements were either essential or important to accurately defining socialization to the model. The panel also reached a consensus on five elements considered to be “indicators” of socialization to the model, the secondary question.
Conclusions: A working definition of socialization to the model is presented and discussed. This definition has implications for both clinical practice and research.