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Cognitive behavior group therapy for body dysmorphic disorder: a case series
1Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, USA. wilhelm@psych.mgh.harvard.edu
Behaviour Research and Therapy
|January 29, 1999
Summary
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) shows promise for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This study found significant symptom reduction in BDD patients undergoing a new, short-term group CBT treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Mental Health
Background:
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a significant mental health condition with limited empirical treatment research.
- Existing treatments for BDD often lack robust empirical support, highlighting a need for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a novel cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).
- To provide preliminary data on a new group-based, short-term CBT intervention for individuals with BDD.
Main Methods:
- An open case series design was employed.
- Participants diagnosed with BDD received 12 weekly 90-minute group therapy sessions.
- Symptom severity for BDD and depression was assessed over the course of treatment.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in BDD symptoms were observed.
- A notable reduction in comorbid depression symptoms was also documented.
- The treatment demonstrated potential efficacy in a clinical sample.
Conclusions:
- Short-term, group-based cognitive-behavioral therapy may be an effective treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
- These findings contribute to the limited but growing evidence base for CBT in BDD treatment.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these promising results in larger, controlled trials.