Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of rape survivors

In the context of managed care, effective short-term treatment has become a priority for psychologists. This is particularly true for the recalcitrant symptoms of PTSD which are often associated with protracted treatment and disappointing outcome.This study investigated the efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as a short-term treatment for PTSD. The independent variable, EMDR, was introduced sequentially in a multiple baseline design across subjects. 5 survivors of rape who met DSM-III-R criteria for PTSD received 4 to 6 weekly sessions of EMDR provided by five licensed psychotherapists with Level 2 EMDR training. Treatment outcomes included (a) large reductions in symptomatology evident in self-monitored data and objective measures, (b) replication of treatment effect in 5 out of 5 subjects, (c) qualitative and behavior change data which corroborate treatment effect, and (d) analyses which demonstrate the clinical significance of the changes, as well as the statistical significance of the differences between pretreatment and follow-up scores (with a confidence level of .05 or beyond). The study suggests that EMDR is very effective for treating long-term, recalcitrant symptoms of PTSD which have not resolved with time or previous therapy. The study provides a methodological model for calibrating treatment and developing accountability for treatment efficacy which can be applied across treatments and settings.

Dissertation/Thesis

English

Judith Kathryn Lindsay

Lindsay, J. K. (1995, August). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of rape survivors. (Doctoral dissertation, University of Oregon)