A trial of eye movement desensitization compared to image habituation training and applied muscle relaxation in post-traumatic stress disorder

J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry. 1994 Dec;25(4):283-91. doi: 10.1016/0005-7916(94)90036-1.

Abstract

Thirty-six patients with PTSD were randomly allocated to individual treatment with imaginal exposure (image habituation training -- IHT), or applied muscle relaxation (AMR) or eye movement desensitization (EMD). Assessment by a blind independent rater and self-report instruments applied pre and posttreatment and at 3-month follow-up indicated that all groups improved significantly compared with a waiting list and that treatment benefits were maintained at follow-up. Despite a failure to demonstrate differences among groups, there was some suggestion that immediately after treatment EMD was superior for intrusive memories.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Arousal
  • Avoidance Learning
  • Desensitization, Psychologic / methods*
  • Eye Movements*
  • Female
  • Habituation, Psychophysiologic*
  • Humans
  • Imagination*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Relaxation*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome