Differential Effects of Psychotherapy and Behavioural Techniques in a Case of Acute Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

¹ Lecturer in Psychology, University of Cape Town, and Consultant Psychologist, Grooteschuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa

In this case study the effects of a number of behavioural methods together with psychotheraphy were evaluated in the treatment of an acute obsessive-compulsive condition. The results suggested that covert reinforcement may have some advantages over other techniques in the acute phase, since it allows the patient to develop self-control over the impulses that create the acute condition. Psychotherapy was found to be effective only at a later stage in treatment.