Exposure therapy for combat-related PTSD: A critical review

B. Christopher Frueh, Samuel M. Turner, Deborah C. Beidel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

This review critically examines the treatment outcome literature using exposure treatment for combat-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Although the current literature is quite underdeveloped, available data suggest that exposure is superior to wait-list controls and "standard treatment." In particular, exposure treatment results in decreased symptoms of intrusive images, cognitions, and physiological arousal. Treatment gains are maintained for as long as 6 months. Limitations of current studies, important procedural variables, patient characteristics, and issues of measurement are highlighted. Finally, efficacy of exposure alone as a treatment for PTSD and the need for addition of other behavioral treatment strategies to exposure is discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)799-817
Number of pages19
JournalClinical Psychology Review
Volume15
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - 1995

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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