Clinical experimental methodology applied to postraumatic stress: A case study

Abstract

In 1980 the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was considered as a psychopathological diagnosis for the first time. Nowadays, this diagnosis is frequently applied. However, it could include different symptom clusters, according to the traumatic event that triggers the PSTD. This paper presents the treatment of a young woman (21 years old) with PSTD following a friend's death. The PSTD, besides the unpleasant symptoms, had also affected several other areas and disrupted her daily life. The treatment was developed following Brewin's theory. After modifying cognitions and high arousal levels, the exposure technique was applied. The treatment was completed with the schedule of activities and the problem solving training. After 20 sessions, within five and a half months, a complete therapeutic success was reached.