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The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been established as a frontline intervention for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), targeting maladaptive thoughts and behaviors associated with excessive worry and anxiety. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of CBT in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with GAD. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of CBT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, medication, other psychotherapies) in targeting symptoms of anxiety, worry, and associated impairments. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment format (individual vs. group), therapist involvement, treatment duration, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of CBT for GAD.
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References
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