The efficacy of an inpatient group therapy program for obsessive-compulsive disorder in addition to individual cognitive behavioral therapy and medication

Purpose: The goal of this treatment trial was to investigate the efficacy o f an inpatient group therapy program specifically designed for patients suf fering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD, ICD 10, F 42). Methods: In the experimental group (EG; n = 14) the specific group therapy was carried out in addition to individual cognitive-behavioral therapy, the control group (KG; n = 16) received non-specific group therapy in mixed pa tient-groups in addition to individual therapy. 7 patients (EG = 3, KG = 4) received also Selective Serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Y-BOCS, BD I, and STAI-X1 were performed pre- and post-treatment. Furthermore therapis ts' ratings and self ratings were taken. Results: At post-treatment both groups showed significant improvement of th e symptomatology. For the EG the Y-BOCS mean was reduced from 23.64 to 11.3 5, for the KG from 23.81 to 12.81. The group comparison showed no significa nt differences (alpha = 0.05) in clinical measurements, therapists' and sel f ratings. However, there were significantly more responders (improvement > 50%, Y-BOCS) in the EG and treatment duration was shorter by 15 days. Conclusions: Clinical outcome in the EG was not superior. However, the spec ific group therapy for OCD contributes to an economic and effective treatme nt.