Emetophobia – A Metacognitive Therapeutic Approach for an Overlooked Disorder
Abstract
Abstract.Objective: Emetophobia is the specific fear of vomiting that usually commences during childhood and adolescence. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to expose patients to vomiting. In this paper, a newly developed metacognitive concept and treatment approach to this disorder is illustrated within a small case series. Method: Three adolescent girls with emetophobia were treated with metacognitive therapy (MCT). Measures of anxiety, worry, depression, and metacognitions before and after the treatment were documented. Results: All patients recovered during the course of 8 to 11 sessions, and measurements of anxiety, worry, depression, and metacognitions dropped markedly. Conclusions: MCT presents a valuable treatment option for emetophobia in adolescents.
Zusammenfassung.Fragestellung: Emetophobie zählt zu den spezifischen Phobien und ist die Angst vor dem Erbrechen. Die Kognitive Verhaltenstherapie zielt darauf ab, Patienten mit Erbrechen zu konfrontieren. Die vorliegende Arbeit präsentiert ein neu entwickeltes metakognitives Störungs- und Behandlungskonzept und eine kleine Fallserie. Methode: Drei weibliche Jugendliche mit Emetophobie wurden mit Metakognitiver Therapie (MCT) behandelt. Maße für Angst, Sorgen, Depressivität und Metakognitionen vor und nach der Behandlung werden berichtet. Ergebnisse: Alle Patienten gesundeten im Verlauf der 8- bis 11-stündigen Behandlung. Die Werte für Angst, Sorgen, Depressivität und Metakognitionen gingen deutlich zurück. Schlussfolgerungen: MCT könnte eine wertvolle Behandlungsoption für Jugendliche mit Emetophobie sein.
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