APA Format Case Study
APA Format Case Study
Prepared by: [Your Name]
I. Executive Summary
This case study investigates the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in alleviating symptoms of anxiety disorders among adult participants. The study examines the outcomes of a 12-week CBT intervention, focusing on the reduction of anxiety symptoms and improvement in overall well-being.
II. Introduction
A. Background
Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental health conditions characterized by excessive worry, fear, and physiological arousal. CBT has emerged as a leading evidence-based treatment for various anxiety disorders due to its focus on modifying maladaptive thoughts and behaviors.
B. Objectives
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of CBT in reducing symptoms of anxiety disorders.
-
Assess changes in participants' cognitive and behavioral patterns following CBT intervention.
III. Methodology
A. Participants
-
The study included 30 adult participants diagnosed with various anxiety disorders, aged between 25 and 45.
-
Participants were recruited from [Your Company Name], following diagnostic assessment by licensed psychologists.
B. Data Collection
-
Data was collected through structured interviews, self-report measures, and behavioral observations.
-
Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) before data collection.
C. Data Analysis
-
Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-sample t-tests.
-
Qualitative data from interviews was thematically analyzed using NVivo software.
IV. Case Description
A. Case Presentation
-
Participant Mary Jane, a 32-year-old female diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), presented with symptoms of excessive worry, restlessness, and sleep disturbances.
-
History revealed the onset of symptoms during adolescence, exacerbated by life stressors and interpersonal conflicts.
B. Diagnostic Assessment
-
Diagnostic assessment confirmed criteria for GAD based on DSM-5 criteria.
-
The severity of anxiety symptoms was assessed using standardized measures, revealing moderate to severe levels of anxiety.
V. Intervention
A. Treatment Plan
-
Participant engaged in 12 weekly sessions of individual CBT, focusing on cognitive restructuring and relaxation techniques.
-
Homework assignments were given to reinforce learned skills and promote generalization to daily life.
B. Progress Monitoring
-
Progress was monitored through weekly symptom assessments and session feedback.
-
Participant engagement and adherence to homework assignments were tracked to gauge treatment compliance.
VI. Outcome
A. Results
-
Post-intervention assessments revealed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms, with Participants reporting decreased worry and improved coping skills.
-
Behavioral observations indicated increased engagement in social activities and decreased avoidance behaviors.
B. Discussion
-
The findings support the efficacy of CBT in reducing symptoms of GAD and improving overall functioning.
-
Limitations include the small sample size and reliance on self-report measures, warranting caution in generalizing results.
VII. Conclusion
This case study demonstrates the promising outcomes of CBT in treating anxiety disorders, underscoring its value as a first-line intervention. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is warranted to validate these findings.
VIII. References
-
Beck, A. T., & Emery, G. (2050). Anxiety disorders and phobias: A cognitive perspective. Basic Books.
-
Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2062). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440.
