Psychological therapies Flashcards
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
The aim of CBT is to identify the thinking patterns causing undesired thoughts, feelings and behaviors and replace them with more realistic and useful thoughts.
It aims to break a problem like disordered thinking into smaller parts so that each can be tackled more manageably.
Strengths of CBT as a therapy to treat Sz
There is evidence to support its effectiveness.
Morrison et al. (2014) conducted a single blind, randomised control trial on 74 patients who were not taking any medication.
37 were provided with the ‘treatment as usual’ and 37 were put through CBT with the treatment as usual.
The CBT was delivered as 26 therapy session for a maximum of 9 months.
Findings:
The results were positive
At 9 months, positive clinical outcomes were achieved in over twice as many ptp who received the CBT as those who didn’t.
These figures were maintained after an 18 month follow up.
It had also improved patients’ personal and social functioning.
Conclusion:
CBT significantly reduced psychiatric symptoms and appear to be a safe alternative for people with Sz.
However the research used a small sample so its important to remain cautious.
Evaluation of CBT
Effective when delusional thoughts prevents patients from taking medication. Puts patients in charge of what they need to deal with their Sz.
However, it can be seen to only treat symptoms while leaving the cause unchanged.
There is also a risk that patients may relapse after therapy sessions stop.
Avolition- patients can lack motivation, which they would need to continue with the therapy
