| Abstract: | Conducted a treatment development study applying brief supportive-expressive psychodynamic psychotherapy (P. Crits-Christoph et al; see record 95-195001-002) to the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Background and rationale for the development of this therapy are presented, along with the project's methods and results. Project goals were to develop a treatment manual, train therapists, and assess the treatment's integrity and efficacy. Outcome data on 26 patients (aged 22–64 yrs) with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV (DSM-IV) diagnosis of GAD indicate that the treatment is promising. Patients revealed significant change in anxiety, depression, worry, and interpersonal problems. Ratings of therapist adherence and competence indicate that the treatment manual can be implemented with fidelity and can be discriminated from other treatments. Methodological issues in the planning of treatment research on GAD, particularly the problem of comorbidity, are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
