Primary gains are the positive effects that an individual or a group receives from the resolution of a problem. They are the tangible, direct, and immediate outcomes of problem solving (Baker-Brown & Adomako, 2012). Primary gains can include improved physical health, improved mental health, increased income, improved social relationships, and improved coping skills (Thompson, 2018).
Primary gains are an important concept in psychology, as they represent the potential for positive outcomes from addressing existing problems. For example, studies have demonstrated that patients with severe mental illness can experience primary gains from psychotherapeutic treatment, including improved functioning, improved quality of life, improved self-esteem, and better relationships with friends and family (Kazantzis, Deane, & Ronan, 2000). Similarly, primary gains can be experienced by individuals with addictions, such as improved physical health, improved self-control, improved functioning, and increased self-esteem (Thompson, 2018; Witkiewitz, Marlatt, & Walker, 2005).
Primary gains can also provide benefits to groups, such as the family unit. For example, studies have found that family interventions for individuals with mental health conditions can produce primary gains such as improved communication, increased compliance with treatment, increased family cohesion, and reductions in family stress (Thompson, 2018). Additionally, primary gains can be experienced by communities, such as improved social capital, improved economic stability, and improved quality of life (O’Connor, 2009).
In conclusion, primary gains are tangible, direct, and immediate outcomes of problem solving. They can be experienced by individuals, families, and communities, and can improve physical and mental health, relationships, coping skills, and quality of life. As such, primary gains can provide a powerful motivation for individuals and groups to engage in problem solving and pursue positive outcomes.
References
Baker-Brown, G., & Adomako, A. (2012). Primary gain and secondary gain in clinical practice. British Journal of Community Nursing, 17(3), S10-S14.
Kazantzis, N., Deane, F. P., & Ronan, K. R. (2000). The primary gains of psychotherapy: A systematic review. Clinical Psychology Review, 20(3), 251-283.
O’Connor, K. (2009). The role of primary gain in community psychology. American Journal of Community Psychology, 43(3-4), 282-290.
Thompson, L. (2018). Primary gain. In Encyclopedia of Mental Health (2nd ed., pp. 85-88). Elsevier.
Witkiewitz, K., Marlatt, G. A., & Walker, D. (2005). Primary and secondary gain processes in addiction treatment. In R. K. Hester & W. R. Miller (Eds.), Handbook of alcoholism treatment approaches (3rd ed., pp. 445-460). Allyn & Bacon.