Randomized comparative study of group versus individual cognitive behavioural therapy for obsessive compulsive
H Jónsson1, E Hougaard, B E Bennedsen
1Department of Psychology, Aarhus University, Aarhus Clinic for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. hjalti@psy.au.dk
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|October 16, 2010
Summary
Group and individual cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) show similar effectiveness for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). While group CBT offers resource savings, a meta-analysis suggests a potential small advantage for individual CBT.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental health condition.
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a leading treatment for OCD.
- The comparative effectiveness of group versus individual CBT delivery models requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of group CBT and individual CBT for patients diagnosed with OCD.
- To supplement direct comparative findings with a meta-analysis of existing studies.
Main Methods:
- 110 outpatients with OCD were randomized to 15 sessions of either group or individual CBT.
- Outcome measures assessed pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.
- A meta-analysis included the current study and four other comparative studies.
Main Results:
- Both group and individual CBT demonstrated large and stable pre-post effect sizes (d = 1.06-1.24) on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale.
- No significant differences in treatment outcomes were observed between group and individual CBT at any assessment point.
- The meta-analysis of four studies indicated a small effect size favoring individual CBT over group CBT post-treatment (d = 0.15).
Conclusions:
- Group CBT is an effective treatment for OCD, potentially allowing for more efficient use of therapist resources.
- While group CBT is effective, the current evidence does not entirely exclude a slight advantage for individually delivered CBT.
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