Research article summary (published 30 May 1994):

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder: a pilot study using assessment measures.

Full Abstract

Spectacular claims have been made regarding the efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but almost entirely on the basis of patients' reports and without objective criteria. This study reports on the treatment of eight patients with a diagnosis of PTSD who received EMDR treatment over four sessions. Assessment measures included two structured interviews, three self-report inventories, and the electromyogram (EMG). Assessments were conducted pre and posttreatment, and at 3-month follow-up. Despite some residual pathology at posttreatment and follow-up, significant improvements were obtained on all measures and across all PTSD symptom clusters. Compared with other treatments of PTSD, change was achieved in far fewer sessions.

Author information

Author/s: Forbes, D (D); Creamer, M (M); Rycroft, P (P);

Affiliation: University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Journal of behavior therapy and experimental psychiatry (J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry), published in UNITED STATES. (Language: eng)

Reference: 1994-Jun; vol 25 (issue 2) : pp 113-20

Dates: Created 1994/12/30; Completed 1994/12/30; Revised 2006/11/15;

PMID: 7983220, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adaptation, Psychological Adult Arousal Combat Disorders - psychology; therapy Desensitization, Psychologic - methods Electromyography Eye Movements Female Follow-Up Studies

Follow-Up Studies Humans Male Middle Aged Personality Assessment - statistics & numerical data Pilot Projects Reproducibility of Results Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic - psychology; therapy Treatment Outcome

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