Taḥqīqāt-i ̒Ulūm-i Raftārī (Jul 2017)
Effectiveness of Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Reduction of Adjustment Disorder in the Elderly
Abstract
Aim and Background: The aim of this study was the evaluation of the effectiveness of group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on the reduction of adjustment disorder in elderly individuals. Methods and Materials: This was a semi-experimental and empirical study. The statistical population consisted of elderly individuals referring to daily rehabilitation centers and the Institute of Jahan Didegan in Tehran, Iran, for treatment and promotion of their psychological status. Subjects were selected via simple random and convenience sampling method. First, the Critical Life Event Inventory (CIEI) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were completed through clinical interviews. Then, by performing the Bell Adjustment Inventory (BDI), those with adjustment disorder were identified based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Edition (DSM-V) criteria. Among the individuals with adjustment disorder, 30 elderly individuals were selected randomly and divided into 2 groups (N = 15 in each) of cognitive-behavior therapy (experimental) and control (waiting list). Finally, the posttest and 1-month fallow-up were conducted for both groups. Findings: ANOVA and Tukey test results revealed that there was a significant difference between the mean posttest and follow-up scores of the cognitive-behavioral therapy group on the reduction of adjustment disorder in elderly individuals (P = 0.001). Conclusions: CBT was effective on reducing adjustment disorder in elderly individuals.
