Referral and initiation of psychotherapy for children and adolescents are decisions most frequently made by others. To investigate the nature of minors' participation in treatment decision making and the relationship between such participation and motivation, adjustment, and outcomes, the behaviors and attitudes of 42 youths (32 male, 10 female, median age, 15), participating in a special education laboratory program on a university campus, were studied before, during, and at the end of psychological treatment. Each participant took part in a two-phase informed consent interview prior to treatment. Forms of measurement used to elicit indices of commitment, motivation, and negative behavior included: ratings; regular reports of observed classroom behavior; and structured and open-ended questions. An analysis of the results showed that despite apparent competence to participate, only seven youngsters were involved in the processes during which psychological treatment was prescribed for them. Moreover, while 75 percent of the sample directly consented to treatment, only 60 percent indicated strong interest in getting started, and only 31 percent were evaluated as motivationally ready to begin. A positive relationship was found between clients' motivational readiness and treatment adjustment and outcomes. (Author/BL)