Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Contemporary Issues in Treatment Wayne K. Goodman, Matthew V. Rudorfer and Jack D. Maser New Jersey/ London: Laurence Erlbaum Associates, 1999. pp. 610. £68.95 (hb). ISBN: 0-8058-2837-0

Abstract

The behavioural experiment is arguably the most effective technique within cognitive therapy. Yet it requires a good collaborative relationship, creativity and discipline to carry them out consistently and effectively. The publication of The Oxford Guide to Behavioural Experiments in Cognitive Therapy is likely to cause a quantum shift in their use in clinical practice. All of the authors of this edited book are members of, or have direct links with the worldleading Oxford Cognitive Therapy Centre. The book begins with a scholarly yet accessible overview of the concept of the behavioural experiment, followed by a chapter providing a step-by-step description of how to construct them. It is encouraging to read the range of formats that can constitute a behavioural experiment, including surveys, role-plays and reallife situations. Experiments to test beliefs about the self, others and also mental processes and emotions can be created. One critical feature is to plan the experiment well so that the possible outcomes and their meanings are specified before the test, and therefore easily compared with what really happens. The main chapters of the book are divided by disorder or presenting problem. The anxiety disorders are each allocated a separate chapter, followed by depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, eating disorders, insomnia, physical illness and disability and acquired brain injury. Four chapters on transdiagnostic issues follow: low selfesteem, avoidance of affect, interpersonal difficulties and self-injurious behaviours. Each chapter is structured in exactly the same way, making it ideal as a reference tool. First, the nature of the disorder or presenting problem is described, then the major cognitive models or theories are explained, followed by several examples of real behavioural experiments and the chapter is rounded off with important considerations. The book is made even more accessible and enjoyable to read by illustrations and humorous experiences that are peppered throughout the text. The contributions by David M. Clark and Christine Padesky ground the book firmly in both science and practice. Books like this are few and far between. It works as an accessible introduction to the practice of contemporary CBT, an overview of the most useful cognitive models of psychological disorders, and a unique reference book for finding out practical instructions and creative inspiration. You could divide therapy manuals into three categories: "non-directive" books that look nice just sitting quietly on your shelf, "cognitive books" that have useful insights but are rarely used, and finally true "cognitive-behaviour books" that are so good that you promptly test them out in practice. This book definitely belongs to the last category and will really influence clinicians' behaviour.WARREN MANSELL Institute of Psychiatry, London