Author

Dana Connor

Date of Defense

2009

Department

Psychology

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) frequently co-occur. This comorbid population presents with more severe symptoms and poorer treatment outcomes, yet most individuals with both disorders receive SUD treatment only. Those who do receive treatment for both disorders commonly undergo a sequential form of therapy, deferring treatment of PTSD until a period of substance abstinence is achieved. Current research suggests SUD treatment outcomes may be adversely affected if co-occurring PTSD is left untreated and that concurrent or integrated models of treatment may prove more effective than a sequential approach. This paper provides an overview of developing treatment approaches for this dually diagnosed population as well as implications for future research.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Campus Only

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