Adapting cognitive-behavioral therapy for a Malaysian muslim

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Cultural Psychiatry

Background:

• Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is effective but raises concerns regarding religious and cultural appropriateness due to its Western origins.
• Adapting CBT to local contexts is crucial for broader applicability and client acceptance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a culturally and religiously adapted CBT for a patient with panic disorder with agoraphobia in Malaysia.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating Islamic principles into CBT.

Main Methods:

• A single-case study (N=1) involving a 34-year-old male with a 14-year history of panic disorder with agoraphobia.
• The adapted CBT included Islamic prayer-based relaxation, Quranic recitations, and cognitive restructuring aligned with Malaysian cultural norms.
• Intervention comprised 3 assessment/formulation sessions and 12 intervention sessions, including exposure therapy.

Main Results:

• Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores demonstrated a significant reduction in anxiety and panic symptoms.
• The client experienced a remarkable decrease in panic attacks and worry about panic.
• The intervention facilitated improved functioning, enabling the client to engage in social and religious activities.

Conclusions:

• Culturally and religiously adapted CBT is effective in treating panic disorder with agoraphobia in a Malaysian context.
• The integration of Islamic elements and cultural considerations enhances CBT's suitability and efficacy.
• This approach shows promise for improving mental health outcomes in diverse populations.