Work

Effects of comorbid depression on response to treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder

Year: 2000

Type: article

Abstract: We examined the effects of comorbid depression on response to treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) using cognitive-behavioral therapy with and without medication. Eighty-seven OCD patients were divided into nondepressed and mildly, moderately, and severely depressed groups on the basis of their pretreatment Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores. Each received an intensive cognitive-behavioral treatment program involving exposure with response prevention (EX/RP); 59 (68%) were also taking medication for OCD. Patients with severe initial depression (BDI ≥30) showed significantly less improvement compared to those less depressed or nondepressed; yet, even highly depressed patients showed moderate treatment gains. Failure to habituate to anxiety-evoking stimuli during exposure and a lack of motivation for therapy are considered possible causes of attenuated outcome.

Source: Behavior Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/s0005-7894(00)80028-3

Authors: Jonathan S. Abramowitz, Martin E. Franklin, Gordon P. Street, Michael J. Kozak, Edna B. Foa

Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Language: English

Topic: Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,600