Effects of a coping‐orientated group therapy for schizophrenia and schizoaffective patients: a pilot study

Authors: Andres, K.; Pfammatter, M.; Garst, F.; Teschner, C.; Brenner, H. D.

Source: Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, Volume 101, Number 4, April 2000 , pp. 318-322(5)

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Abstract:

Objective:This controlled pilot study was designed, first, to examine the efficacy of two different group therapy formats for schizophrenia and schizoaffective patients: a patient‐centred, psychoeducative and coping‐orientated group therapy approach and a supportive therapy group. Secondly, it intended to establish preliminary hypotheses on the therapeutically relevant factors.

Method:In a sample of 31 patients suffering from schizophrenia or a schizoaffective disorder the effect sizes of the coping‐orientated therapy approach and a supportive group therapy on several outcome variables were examined and the predictive power of different effect variables on outcome was analysed.

Results:The effect sizes show improvements in the cognizance of the disorder and the related pharmacotherapy, the psychopathology and the social functioning for both therapy conditions. Moreover, outcome as measured after 1 year was best predicted by the patient's mastery of active, problem‐focused coping strategies.

Conclusion:The results corroborate the appropriateness of focusing on aspects of coping‐behaviour in psychological interventions.

Keywords: behaviour therapy; group; cognitive therapy; compliance; schizophrenia

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0447.2000.101004318.x

Publication date: 2000-04-01