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Group cognitive-behavioural therapy for schizophrenia. Randomised controlled trial.
Christine Barrowclough1, Gillian Haddock, Fiona Lobban
1School of Psychological Sciences, Rutherford House, Manchester Science Park, Lloyd Street North, Manchester M15 6SZ, UK. christine.barrowclough@manchester.ac.uk
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|December 2, 2006
Summary
Group cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for schizophrenia did not significantly improve positive symptoms or functioning. However, group CBT effectively reduced hopelessness and low self-esteem in patients.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is effective for schizophrenia, but evidence for group formats is limited.
- Group therapy offers a potential avenue for delivering CBT to more patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of group cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for individuals with schizophrenia.
- To assess the impact of group CBT on positive symptoms, functioning, and psychological well-being.
Main Methods:
- 113 participants with persistent positive symptoms of schizophrenia were randomized.
- Intervention group received group CBT; control group received treatment as usual.
- Primary outcome: Positive and Negative Syndrome Scales (PANSS) for positive symptoms. Secondary outcomes: symptoms, functioning, relapse rates, hopelessness, and self-esteem.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between group CBT and treatment as usual for symptom improvement, functioning, or relapse rates.
- Group CBT significantly reduced feelings of hopelessness.
- Group CBT led to significant improvements in self-esteem.
Conclusions:
- Group CBT may not be the optimal approach for reducing core psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
- Group CBT demonstrates significant benefits in improving psychological well-being by reducing hopelessness and enhancing self-esteem.
- Group CBT presents a valuable therapeutic option for addressing negative self-perceptions and future outlook in schizophrenia.
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