Imaginal flooding in the treatment of a posttraumatic stress disorder.

A 36-yr-old Vietnam veteran was treated for the anxiety-related symptoms of a posttraumatic stress disorder during a 22-day inpatient hospitalization. Primary treatment was the exposure technique of imaginal flooding using the intrusive thoughts (nightmares and flashbacks) associated with the traumatic events. Self-monitored data, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and physiological responding during scene presentation provided evidence for treatment efficacy. 12-mo follow-up indicated improved adjustment as supported by employment status, residential stability, emotional involvement, and self-report of anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. (5 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)