Development and pilot investigation of behavioral activation for negative symptoms

Behav Modif. 2011 Sep;35(5):486-506. doi: 10.1177/0145445511411706. Epub 2011 Jul 11.

Abstract

Negative symptoms cause functional impairment and impede recovery from psychosis, not least, because of limited developments in empirically validated treatments. This article details a pilot evaluation of a behavioral activation (BA) treatment with eight people presenting with psychosis and marked negative symptoms. The rationale for this development was that BA is effective in treating depression, a condition that shares overlapping features with negative symptoms. Results provide preliminary support for feasibility and effectiveness of BA for negative symptoms in terms of treatment adherence, retention, and initial outcomes. However, additional advantages may accrue from revisions to the BA treatment.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Behavior Therapy / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Compliance / statistics & numerical data
  • Patient Satisfaction / statistics & numerical data
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales / statistics & numerical data
  • Schizophrenia / diagnosis
  • Schizophrenia / therapy*
  • Schizophrenic Psychology*