Specific phobia 10-16 years after treatment

Twenty eight participants, initially treated for specific phobia as part of a comparative treatment study, were evaluated 10 to 16 years (X=12 years) later A comprehensive, in-person, semi-structured diagnostic interview, was utilized, which also assessed comorbid disorders. Of 21 patients who had b een rated as responders (much improved or very much improved) at treatment termination, IS (62%) had clinically significant avoidance or endurance wit h dread subsequent to treatment. Among a subgroup of these responders who h ad been considered completely recovered (n=11), 5 (45%) had clinically sign ificant symptoms following treatment None of the seven subjects who had bee n considered unimproved at treatment termination recovered from phobia symp toms in the intervening years. Positive response to treatment was associate d with better long term outcome. Clinical characteristics, such as phobia s ubtype, age of onset, baseline severity, and lifetime comorbidity of other psychiatric disorders were not associated with long term outcome in this sa mple. Type of treatment was not associated with long term outcome. Results challenge the notion that recovery from specific phobia following treatment is characterized by complete and enduring cessation of symptoms. (C) 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.