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The Effectiveness of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy has emerged as a leading intervention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), targeting the core symptoms of obsessions and compulsions through systematic exposure to feared stimuli and prevention of ritualistic behaviors. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of ERP in reducing OCD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with OCD. Through an extensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of ERP compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, medication, other psychotherapies) in targeting symptoms of OCD, including obsessions, compulsions, and associated distress. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, intensity, therapist experience, treatment format (individual vs. group), and participant characteristics (e.g., age, symptom severity), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of ERP for OCD.
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References
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