When prolonged exposure fails: Adding an imagery-based cognitive restructuring component in the treatment of industrial accident victims suffering from PTSD
Authors: | Hagner, D., Cloutier, H., Arakelian, C., & Brucker, D. |
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Year Published | 2003 |
Publication | Cognitive and Behavioral Practice |
Volume | 41 |
Number | 7 |
Pages | 333-346 |
Publisher | Association for Advancement of Behavior |
Background |
Accidents within the workplace affect a large number of individuals each year. The most frequently studied traumas have involved victims of combat,physical and sexual assault, natural disaster, and motor vehicle accidents. (p.333) |
Purpose |
The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of adding an imagery-based, cognitive restructuring component to the treatment of two victims of work-related injuries suffering from PTSD who failed to improve from prolonged exposure alone. |
Setting |
The study took place in individual treatment sessions provided by the senior author. |
Sample |
This article reviews 2 case studies of individuals receiving Imagery Rescripting and Reprocessing Therapy (IRRT) in addition to Prolonged Exposure (PE). |
Data Collection |
The BDI, IES, State-Trait Anxiety Scale, and the WMS-R Digit Span Subtest were administered at pre and post-treatment, and again at 1-month, 3-month, and 6 month follow-ups. SUDS ratings were recorded throughout each treatment session as well as at intake, post treatment, and each of the follow-ups. |
Control |
There was no control or comparison condition. |
Findings |
Imagery Rescripting and Reprocessing Therapy appeared to facilitate and foster a significant cognitive shift, which resulted in successful emotional processing and an immediate alleviation of PTSD symptoms. (p.343) |
Conclusions |
Prolonged exposure is more likely to be an effective PTSD treatment when fear is the primary emotion and avoidance is the primary coping strategy. An imagery based cognitive-restructuring treatment (IRRT) is likely to be an effective PTSD treatment when non-fear emotions are primary. |
URL | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1077722903800512 |
Disabilities | Emotional disturbance |
Populations | Male |
Outcomes | Return to work |
NIDILRR Funded | Not Reported |
Research Design | Case reports |
Peer Reviewed | Yes |