The significance of coping as a therapeutic variable for the outcome of psychological therapy in schizophrenia.
Although there is now strong evidence confirming the efficacy of psychological therapies in schizophrenia, the therapeutic processes which they activate remain widely unknown. In order to effectively implement them in clinical practice, identification of these processes is essential. In a controlled study, the efficacy of a coping-oriented therapy approach for schizophrenia patients was tested. Furthermore, the study aimed at establishing preliminary hypotheses on the therapeutically relevant factors. Treatment effects were found in the prominence of psychopathology, the extent of cognizance of the disorder, and the level of social functioning. Moreover, a better psychopathological and social outcome as measured 12 and 18 months after completion of therapy was best predicted by the patients' mastery of active, problem-focused coping strategies immediately after completion of therapy. The findings underscore the clinical relevance of specific coping styles and corroborate the appropriateness of focusing on aspects of coping behavior in psychological interventions for schizophrenia patients.
Andres
Karl
K
Department of Social and Community Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Services Bern, UPD, Bolligenstrasse 111, 3000 60 Bern, Switzerland. andres@spk.unibe.ch
Pfammatter
Mario
M
Fries
Alexander
A
Brenner
Hans Dieter
HD
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology; D000328:Adult; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011340:Problem Solving; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000628:therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012944:Social Support