A treatment-outcome study of cognitive-behavioural therapy for battered women: preliminary findings

This paper describes a treatment-outcome study of a cognitive-behavioural therapy programme, lasting eight sessions and using a group format, for battered women with posttraumatic symptoms although not satisfying diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder. The therapeutic programme included psychoeducation, breath control training, self-esteem improvement procedures, cognitive therapy, problem solving, pleasant activities planning and communication skills training, as well as specific strategies for relapse prevention. The sample consisted of 17 women (12 in the experimental treatment group and 5 in a waiting control group). Results showed an important decrease in posttraumatic and depressive symptoms, and an improvement in adaptation levels. Gains were maintained at 1, 3 and 6 month follow-up. Issues and clinical implications are discussed.