ABSTRACT
The aim of this research was to examine the efficacy of two cognitive-behavioral treatment modalities for panic disorder (PD) with nocturnal panic (NP). The first study was conducted to determine whether conventional CBT for PD was effective for PD with NP in three participants. A second study sought to explore whether a CBT adapted to NP would lead to different clinical outcomes in three other participants. A multiple-baseline single-case design across individuals was used in both studies. Treatment outcome was assessed with standardized clinician ratings, self-report questionnaires, and daily self-monitoring. Results revealed that both the conventional and the adapted treatments showed a faster decrease in NPs versus daytime panics and significant clinical changes in all measures for up to a year after therapy. Hence, the changes brought about by the adapted treatment seemed to be similar to those obtained using conventional treatment. In light of these results, it can be presumed that conventional strategies may be sufficient for the treatment of NP. These observations raise questions regarding the real need to adapt treatments specifically to NP.
Subject(s)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods , Night Terrors/therapy , Panic Disorder/therapy , Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Night Terrors/complications , Panic Disorder/complications , Psychiatric Status Rating Scales , Self Report , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for comorbid panic disorder with agoraphobia (PDA) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) by combining treatment strategies for both disorders. A single-case, multiple-baseline design across participants was used. Three participants with primary PDA and secondary GAD took part in the study. The efficacy of the treatment was assessed by means of a structured interview, self-administered questionnaires, and daily self-monitoring measures. After treatment, 2 of the 3 participants achieved high end-state functioning and maintained this level of functioning at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups. The third participant also improved but only reached high end-state functioning at 6-month follow-up. It therefore appears that the combined treatment is relatively effective for PDA-GAD comorbidity. Possible avenues for improving the treatment are suggested.
Subject(s)
Agoraphobia/complications , Agoraphobia/therapy , Anxiety Disorders/complications , Anxiety Disorders/therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/methods , Panic Disorder/complications , Panic Disorder/therapy , Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a cognitive-behavioral treatment package for comorbid generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder with agoraphobia (PDA). A single-case, multiple-baseline, across-subjects design was used with 3 primary GAD patients with secondary PDA. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated with a structured interview, a battery of self-report questionnaires, and daily self-monitoring booklets. Results are promising: At posttreatment, 2 out of 3 participants achieved high endstate functioning and maintained this level at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups. The 3rd participant also improved but achieved moderate endstate functioning. The strengths and limitations of the treatment are discussed.
