Habit Reversal Training and Variants of Decoupling for Use in Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors. A Randomized Controlled Trial

We examined whether applying more than one technique would lead either to add-on or interference effects.ResultsThe three treatment conditions were significantly superior to the waitlist control group in the improvement of BFRBs according to intention-to-treat analyses at a medium effect size (allp ≤ 0.002,d = 0.52 – 0.54). The condition displaying DC first significantly reduced depressive symptoms (p = 0.003,d = 0.47) and improved quality of life (p = 0.011,d = 0.39) compared to the waitlist control. Those using more techniques concurrently showed the strongest decline in BFRB symptoms, even after controlling for days practiced. Participants rated all manuals favorably, with standard DC and HRT yielding greatest acceptability.DiscussionResults tentatively suggest the concurrent application of different behavioral treatments for BFRBs leads to add-on effects. Results were superior when DC was practiced first, with positive effects extending to depressive symptoms and quality of life. Integrating the three techniques into one self-help manual or video along with other treatment procedures (e.g., stimulus control techniques) is recommended.
Source: Cognitive Therapy and Research - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research