Related Experiment Videos
Eye movement desensitization: three unusual cases
1Department of Psychology, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo 49008, USA.
Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Eye movement desensitization (EMD) effectively treats post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), even in complex cases involving panic attacks, sexual dysfunction, and severe social impairment. This therapy rapidly resolves symptoms and restores function.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) presents with diverse and complex symptom profiles.
- Childhood sexual abuse can lead to long-term psychological and functional impairments.
- Comorbid conditions like panic attacks and sexual dysfunction complicate PTSD treatment.
Observation:
- Three distinct cases of complex PTSD are detailed.
- Case 1: PTSD with comorbid panic attacks.
- Case 2: PTSD secondary to childhood sexual abuse with sexual dysfunction.
- Case 3: PTSD causing profound occupational and social functional impairment.
Findings:
- Eye movement desensitization (EMD) demonstrated broad applicability across all three complex PTSD cases.
- Rapid symptom resolution was observed in all subjects following EMD treatment.
- Significant functional recovery, including occupational and social, was achieved.
Implications:
- EMD is a versatile therapeutic approach for complex PTSD presentations.
- EMD offers a rapid and effective treatment option for individuals with severe trauma-related symptoms.
- Further research into EMD's efficacy in diverse and complex PTSD populations is warranted.