Research also shows that early engagement requires the therapist to maintain a balanced bond with the parent (often the father figure) and the problem youth. Research on BSFT has shown that if, in the first session, the therapist does not develop a balanced set of bonds with the parent and the youth, this imbalance leads to early dropout from treatment (Robbins et
al., 2000). These findings have been incorporated into BSFT treatment as conducted today.