The effects of attachment style and reflective functioning in CBASP.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Are therapist and client attachment style and reflective functioning associated with outcomes in Cognitive Behavioural Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP); a longitidunal proof of concept study.
IRAS ID
187352
Contact name
Sarah Buckley
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 8 months, 27 days
Research summary
Chronic depression is defined as a persistent disturbance in mood present for at least 2 years. Cognitive behavioural analysis system of psychotherapy (CBASP) is a therapy that aims to help patients with chronic depression understand how their interaction within their environment affects the outcome of interpersonal situations. This is aided through a combination of cognitive, behavioural, and interpersonal techniques many of which are distinct to CBASP.
Despite increasing research suggesting the success of CBASP in terms of clinical outcomes, research has not explored the potential role of therapist and client variables and whether they contribute to outcomes. Based on the theoretical foundation of CBASP it is believed that client and therapist attachment style and reflective functioning (i.e. the ability to imagine mental states in self and others) will have an impact on outcomes, particularly psychological distress, engagement and the therapeutic relationship. This research will allow us to gain further understanding of the active ingredients in CBASP and could lead to implications for future training and service delivery.
This longitudinal proof of concept study, funded by NHS Lothian and University of Edinburgh, aims to recruit approximately 10 NHS Lothian therapists trained in CBASP. Each therapist will be allocated a minimum of two clients who meet criteria for chronic depression and will be recruited from NHS Lothian psychology in service waiting lists and new referrals.
Participants in the study will initially provide written consent and complete baseline questionnaires. They will also complete an interview (approximately 1 hour duration) that explores their early relationships and attachments. Treatment as usual will then commence with additional questionnaires to be completed during all sessions (3 additional questionnaires for clients; 1 additional questionnaire for therapists). Treatment as usual involves approximately twenty weekly one-hour sessions of CBASP which will be based on NHS Lothian premises.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 02
REC reference
15/SS/0232
Date of REC Opinion
11 Jan 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion