Cognitive behavioural group therapy for emetophobia: An open study in a psychiatric setting

Abstract

Background

Emetophobia is a neglected area within clinical research. Only case studies have been performed examining treatment effectiveness. The present study aimed to examine the preliminary acceptability and effectiveness of a cognitive behavioural group therapy developed specifically for the treatment of emetophobia.

Method

The present study design was a one‐group pretest, post‐test, follow‐up design with a double pretest. Twenty‐three patients, in three treatment groups, participated in the study. Four assessment time points were conducted (1) five weeks prior to treatment, (2) before the first treatment session, (3) after the final session and (4) 3 months after the final session. Participants completed the emetophobia questionnaire, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale—self assessment at all assessments.

Results

After treatment, patients showed a significantly lower degree of emetophobic symptoms. About half of the patients were clinically significantly improved or recovered after treatment, and two thirds were improved or recovered at follow‐up. Participation at sessions was high, and patients were satisfied with treatment.

Conclusions

The results from this study, the largest trial yet for emetophobia, indicate that cognitive behavioural therapy may be an efficacious treatment for emetophobia. The study design involves several limitations, and further studies should include independent control groups, randomisation, and longer follow‐up assessments.

Abstract

Key words:

• anxiety disorder
• cognitive behavioural therapy
• emetophobia
• pilot study
• specific phobia of vomiting

Funding: There was no external funding source for this study.

Conflict of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare, financial or otherwise.

Funding: There was no external funding source for this study.

Conflict of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare, financial or otherwise.

Notes

Funding: There was no external funding source for this study.

Conflict of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare, financial or otherwise.