Conflict in group therapy of chronic schizophrenics: coping with aggression

Benefits of long-term group therapy to individuals suffering schizophrenia: A prospective 7-year study

The benefits of a long-term weekly therapy group for individuals suffering with schizophrenia have been evaluated. The data were derived prospectively from 308 sessions over 7 years in an outpatient hospital setting. Results show trends in the individual members to engage in more emotionally meaningful interactions in the group. The group has served not only as a container for the depression, anxiety, and psychosis of its members but also for the development of their humor, support, and insight. Although there was no control for variables other than group participation, the data suggest that each member, given enough time and support can increase his or her own level of maturation and functioning in a group setting.

Assaultive behavior intervention in the Veterans Administration: psychodynamic group psychotherapy compared to cognitive behavior therapy

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of a psychodynamic psychotherapy group (PPG) and a cognitive-behavior group (CBG) for male veterans with a history of assault.

METHODS

Data collected included the Addiction Severity Index, the Overt Aggression Scale, and the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory. Subjects (N = 27) were assigned randomly to a central group, PPG, or CBG. Analyses included an overall comparison of the groups as well as repeated-measures analyses and adjustments for covariates.

FINDINGS

The PPG showed a trend toward improvement of overt aggression and significant improvement of trait aggression compared with CBG. There were no differences in state aggression or efforts to control aggression.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the PPG and CBG are effective treatments for aggression.