Date of Award

8-2018

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Amy E. Naugle

Second Advisor

Dr. C. Richard Spates

Third Advisor

Dr. Scott Gaynor

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Brian Horvitz

Keywords

Post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, computerized treatment, CCBT, exposure therapy

Abstract

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) results in significant impairment for the individual and substantial costs to society. Research indicates that cognitive behavioral psychotherapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for PTSD and that among CBT treatments, exposure therapy is the treatment technique with the strongest evidence to recommend it for PTSD treatment. Computerized programs that deliver evidenced-based treatments offer a potential solution to barriers that prevent individuals from accessing and completing treatment. The present study evaluates the clinical and practical functionality of a computer-based program designed for the treatment of PTSD. Results indicate that completion of the program is associated with a significant decrease in both PTSD and depressive symptoms and that the program is generally perceived favorably. Results also indicate various barriers to engagement with the computer-based program. Future directions for the development and evaluation of the treatment program are discussed.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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