Comparing the Effectiveness of Beck's Cognitive Therapy and Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy on Cognitive Avoidance, Arousal, and Dissociative Experiences in Individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Objective: This study compares the effectiveness of two therapeutic methods, namely Beck's Cognitive Therapy and Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy, on experiential avoidance, arousal, and dissociative experiences in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder. Methodology: The research was conducted using a semi-experimental method with a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design, involving two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population included patients with post-traumatic stress disorder who referred to psychiatric and psychological centers in Tehran between November 2022 and December 2022. Forty-five patients were selected through convenience sampling and divided into three groups. Data collection tools included questionnaires on experiential avoidance, arousal, and dissociative experiences. Data analysis was descriptive, and the results were analyzed using the statistical software SPSS 22. Findings: The results indicated that both therapeutic methods positively affected the reduction of experiential avoidance and dissociative experiences. However, Beck's Cognitive Therapy had a greater impact on reducing experiential avoidance compared to Short-Term Psychodynamic Therapy. Additionally, both methods led to improvements in individuals' arousal. Conclusion: This research confirms that the use of these two therapeutic methods can help improve the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. However, both therapeutic methods, especially Beck's Cognitive Therapy, are effective in improving cognitive avoidance and arousal in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.