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When it comes to evaluating psychodynamic therapy, the devil is in the details
Michael D Anestis1, Joye C Anestis, Scott O Lilienfeld
1Florida State University, Tallahassee, 32306, USA. anestis@psy.fsu.edu
The American Psychologist
|February 9, 2011
Summary
This commentary critiques claims about psychodynamic therapy (PT) efficacy. While acknowledging Shedler
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Psychology
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Critique of J. Shedler's article on psychodynamic therapy (PT) efficacy.
- Addresses the historical dismissal and potential overstatement of PT's effectiveness in scientific literature.
Discussion:
- Examines methodological shortcomings in Shedler's analysis of PT outcome studies.
- Highlights instances where Shedler overlooked contradictory findings and overstated evidence quality.
- Discusses the dual challenge of historical antipathy towards controlled research and overstating efficacy within the psychodynamic community.
Key Insights:
- Shedler's article, while aiming to legitimize PT, contains significant analytical flaws.
- The evidence base for psychodynamic therapy's efficacy may be weaker than presented.
- Objective evaluation of PT requires careful attention to methodological details and all relevant findings.
Outlook:
- Encourages a more rigorous and objective scientific approach to evaluating psychodynamic therapy.
- Calls for greater transparency and accuracy in reporting research on psychodynamic interventions.
- Suggests the need for further high-quality, controlled studies to establish PT's efficacy.
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