Cognitive-Behavioural Treatment in a case of Generalized Anxiety Disorder: The Metacognitive Component

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Abstract
Cognitive models have been developed during the past years in order to explain the principal anxiety disorders. According to the former, experienced anxiety depends not so much on the situation but on the interpretation and cognitive processes mediating such emotional response. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by uncontrollable and excessive worry, which usually generates significant levels of distress and anxiety. Patients with GAD have often been found to meet criteria for mood disorders, other anxiety disorders (at least 60% suffer from other Axis I disorders) and stress related disorders (irritable bowel syndrome or headaches). Studies based on Wells s metacognitive model (1999) have received strong empirical support when investigating cognitive processes involved in GAD and the role played by worry in its onset and maintenance. In support of this model, we present a case of a 40 year-old-man treated for GAD in a private practice. The assessment, treatment plan and post-treatment results, discussed in detail, reasonably achieved the desired therapeutic objectives.
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Journal
Ansiedad y Estrés
Year of Publication
2008
Volume
14
Issue
2-3
Number of Pages
305-319
Date Published
07/2008
Type of Article
Journal article
Publisher
ISSN Number
1134-7937
ISBN Number
2174-0437
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