Correlates and cognitive behavioural management of dysthymia

Pages: 852-858
C. N. Ram Gopal (Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Chennai)
V. D. Swaminathan (Department of Psychology, University of Madras, Chennai )

The objectives of the present study were to identify the factors that contribute to dysthymia and to study the effectiveness of cognitive-behaviour therapy (C.B.T.) in the treatment of dysthymia. In the present study two approaches were followed namely, Ex-post-facto approach and Experimental approach. The sample consisted of three groups of 15 dysthymic patients in each group. The findings revealed that, locality, marital status, family history, intelligence and major value factors love and approval were the contributors to the Cognitive Dimension of Dysthymia, C.B.T. was found to be effective in the treatment of dysthymia, and craving for love, autonomy and perfectionism were the predictors of dysthymia.