Social phobia viewed as a problem in social functioning: a pilot study of group behavioral treatment

J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry. 2000 Sep-Dec;31(3-4):163-75. doi: 10.1016/s0005-7916(00)00018-5.

Abstract

Available treatments of social phobia reduce anxiety and avoidance of social situations. Social functioning however, remains relatively unaffected. This study piloted a behavioral group treatment that aimed at improving patients' individual difficulties in social functioning. Five patients fulfilling DSM-IV criteria for social phobia were selected for treatment by a 16-session behavioral group treatment focusing on improving interpersonal functioning both in specific phobic situations as well as in different spheres of social life in general. Four out of 5 patients completed treatment and showed individual patterns of clinically significant improvement. Their individual test-score results and case-histories are presented. Three patients no longer fulfilled to the diagnostic criteria at the end of treatment; the fourth--at 6 month follow-up. This was maintained at a 2 year follow-up.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behavior Therapy*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phobic Disorders / diagnosis
  • Phobic Disorders / psychology
  • Phobic Disorders / therapy*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Psychotherapy, Group*
  • Social Behavior*