The use of behavioral experiments to modify delusions and paranoia: Clinical guidelines and recommendations.

Abstract

Recently, there has been a renewed interested in the treatment of psychosis and it is now appears possible to modify specific symptoms of psychosis such as paranoia and delusions using methods derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. One specific technique that has received less attention is the use of behavioral experiments. In this paper, we will focus on the treatment of delusions and paranoia using behavioral experiments. To put behavioral experiments in the context of treatment, we will first provide a brief review of cognitive-behavioral treatment of psychosis. This will be followed by a discussion of the different types and goals of behavioral experiments as well as specific recommendations and guidelines for the use of experiments for delusions and paranoia. We will conclude with a case study to illustrate the use of behavioral experiments in treatment.

The role of safety-seeking behaviours in maintaining threat appraisals in psychosis

“…Many authors have spoken about this strategy before (e.g. Chadwick et al, 1996;Combs, Tiegreen, & Nelson, 2007;Morrison, 2001). The evidence from the current study supports this style of intervention and suggests that further research should examine its specific effects.…”

Am I Being Followed? Dealing with the Dilemma of Patients with Paranoid Schizophrenia in the Age of Digital Marketing

“…We planned a behavior experiment based on empirical hypothesis testing ( Figure 1 ). 5 First, the treating team discussed the behavioral investigation with the patients, reached a mutual agreement, and chose a trusted attendee (nominated by the patient). Secondly, a formal experiment design was prepared with the involvement of the patients.…”

Improving Attitudes to Volunteering Among Older Adults: A Randomized Trial Approach

“…The relationship between these variables is reciprocal, with behavior also having the potential to influence attitudes (Festinger & Carlsmith, 1959). In cognitive therapy, for example, it is acknowledged that getting people to modify their attitudes and beliefs is difficult (Combs & Tiegreen, 2007), and it can be much more effective to directly encourage trial via experiential exercises (Bennett-Levy et al, 2004). Given previous research has partially attributed reluctance to participate in volunteering among older adults to a "misguided sense of what volunteering encompasses" (Warburton, Paynter, & Petriwskyj, 2007), the approach of encouraging trial to change attitudes may assist in overcoming this barrier.…”