A single session with an earthquake simulator for traumatic stress in earthquake survivors

Am J Psychiatry. 2003 Apr;160(4):788-90. doi: 10.1176/ajp.160.4.788.

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of a single session of earthquake simulator-assisted exposure treatment of traumatic stress in earthquake survivors.

Method: Ten earthquake survivors in Turkey were given one session of exposure to simulated earthquake tremors. Assessments were at pre- and postsession and at 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks posttreatment.

Results: All measures showed significant improvement at all assessments. Eight patients were markedly and two slightly improved at follow-up.

Conclusions: A single exposure session with an earthquake simulator appears to be effective in treating postearthquake traumatic stress. Controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude to Health
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Depressive Disorder / diagnosis
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy
  • Disasters*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Implosive Therapy / methods
  • Life Change Events
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Survivors / psychology*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Turkey