Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Delusional Disorder: A Single-Case Study Investigation

Authors

  • Ayesha Ahmad PhD Scholar, Institute of Clinical Psychology, University of Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan Author
  • Imran Ashraf Malik Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Psychology University of Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan Author
  • Samar Bakhtawar M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Psychology, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Peshawar, Pakistan Author
  • Amna Abdul Ghafoor PhD Scholar, Institute of Clinical Psychology, University of Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan Author
  • Javeria Mirza MS Health Psychology, Institute of Applied Psychology, University of Punjab, Punjab, Pakistan Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59075/q3hhwg72

Keywords:

Delusional Disorder, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Case study

Abstract

This case study examines the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to address Delusional Disorder in adults, with non-bizarre delusions. Informal assessment was done through clinical interview, mental status examination and the tools used for formal assessment encompassed the Peter Delusion Inventory PDI (Peters et al., 2004), Beck Depression Inventory BDI II (Beck et al., 1996), Beck Anxiety Inventory BAI (Beck et al., 1996) and the Global Assessment Functioning scale GAF (Pedersen & Karterud, 2012). Over 12 weekly sessions using customized cognitive behavioral therapy methods, like cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation, coping skills and providing psychoeducation about mental health issues were conducted to help lessen distress from delusions and to enhance understanding while improving daily life skills. The therapy focused on therapeutic alliance and addressing delusional beliefs in a manner without being confrontational. Post-treatment assessment indicated that there was a decrease in the intensity of delusions and distress along with interpersonal connections and overall functioning. The noticeable difference in the client’s scores before and after treatment was evident following the treatment sessions (PDI; 80 to 48) (BD1; 24 to 15) and (BA1; 23 to 13). These results underscore the success of CBT as a method for addressing delusional disorder and support the need for research into its practicality.

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Published

2025-01-02

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