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Substantial symptom changes in naturalistic recovery from aversive events. J Clin Psychol 2014 Oct;70(10):967-78

Date

04/11/2014

Pubmed ID

24719217

DOI

10.1002/jclp.22092

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-84911004060 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   2 Citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Researchers have recommended examining trajectories of recovery from aversive events, including sudden gains and spikes. We examined rates, attributions for, and outcomes associated with substantial symptom improvements and brief exacerbations after aversive events.

METHOD: Sixty-three women completed questionnaire measures of mood, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. They used a Life History Calendar (LHC) to draw the trajectory of symptom levels from the event to the present, and were interviewed regarding the course of their symptoms. Based on the LHC and interview, we coded whether each participant experienced substantial improvements and/or brief exacerbations and reasons for them.

RESULTS: Participants frequently experienced substantial improvements and brief exacerbations, most of which they attributed to external events. Substantial improvements-but not substantial brief exacerbations-were associated with significantly lower symptom levels.

CONCLUSION: Substantial improvements are similar to sudden gains in therapy samples. Substantial improvements in avoidance and mood have positive, bidirectional effects on each other.

Author List

Larsen SE, Berenbaum H

Author

Sadie E. Larsen PhD Associate Professor in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin




MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Behavioral Symptoms
Depression
Disease Progression
Female
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Life Change Events
Middle Aged
Remission, Spontaneous
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic
Time Factors