Long-term outcomes of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in drug-dependent female inmates: A randomized controlled trial

Publication date: January 2014 Source:International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, Volume 14, Issue 1 Author(s): Ana González-Menéndez , Paula Fernández , Filomena Rodríguez , Patricia Villagrá The general aim of this randomized controlled trial was to test the long-term efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) compared to a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) condition in the treatment of drug abuse. Participants were 37 polydrug incarcerated females assessed with Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Addiction Severity Index-6, Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II at pre, post, and at 6-, 12- and 18-months follow-ups. The mixed lineal model analyses showed reductions in drug abuse, ASI levels and avoidance repertoire in both conditions, without any differences between groups. However, the percentages of mental disorders were reduced only in ACT participants. At the 18-month follow-up, ACT was better than CBT in the maintaining of abstinence rates. This data support the incubation pattern showed in previous ACT studies. To conclude, the ACT intervention seems to be an adequate treatment option for addictive behaviours and co-occurring disorders in incarcerated women.
Source: International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research