Treatment of acute stress disorder for victims of violent crime

Abstract Background Victims of violent crime are at elevated risk of developing acute stress disorder (ASD) as well as subsequent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), both of which are linked to severe psychological distress. The aim of this 12-month prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) vs. cognitive-behavioral therapy with a significant other (CBT-SO), relative to usual care (UC), for the improvement of post-traumatic, depression and anxiety symptoms and the prevention of PTSD among victims of violent crime with ASD. Methods A total of 166 victims of violent crime with ASD were assigned to CBT (n = 54), CBT-SO (n = 52) or UC (n = 60). Self-report assessments and diagnostic interviews were completed at pre-treatment and post-treatment as well as at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups. Results CBT and CBT-SO participants had fewer depression symptoms than those in the UC group up to 12 months post-event. Significantly fewer participants in the CBT condition met criteria for PTSD than in the UC group up to 12 months post-event. The CBT group did not differ from the CBT-SO group on any variable at any assessment time. Limitations Findings must be interpreted in light of the quasi-experimental nature of the study and limitations concerning the management of missing data. Conclusions Further research is warranted in order to assess whether more extensive involvement of a significant other in therapy may lead to better outcomes for victims of violent crime with ASD.