Mechanisms and Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Michelle G. Newman
Search for more papers by this authorKi Eun Shin
Search for more papers by this authorLucas S. LaFreniere
Search for more papers by this authorMichelle G. Newman
Search for more papers by this authorKi Eun Shin
Search for more papers by this authorLucas S. LaFreniere
Search for more papers by this authorDean McKay
Search for more papers by this authorJonathan S. Abramowitz
Search for more papers by this authorEric A. Storch
Search for more papers by this authorSummary
This chapter differentiates components of theoretical models and treatments of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) that have received substantial empirical support from those with less empirical support. It discusses the sequencing of individual treatment components, potential obstacles to the successful implementation of treatment, and ways to address the obstacles. Treatments based on theoretical models of GAD have been developed. Emotional/behavioral models include the emotion dysregulation model and the acceptance-based model. Treatments based on these models integrate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques with novel methods derived from mindfulness and emotion regulation theory. Among interventions included in CBT programs, few would question that the two most studied and supported for GAD are cognitive therapy (CT) and relaxation training (RT). Only relaxation training and CBT have been noted as empirically supported treatments for GAD by the American Psychological Association.
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