An open access journal
The Efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has garnered attention as a promising intervention for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), focusing on acceptance of internal experiences and commitment to value-driven action. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of ACT in reducing GAD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with GAD. Through an extensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of ACT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, treatment as usual, other psychotherapies) in targeting symptoms of GAD, including excessive worry, somatic symptoms, and avoidance behaviors. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment format (individual vs. group), treatment duration, therapist adherence, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of ACT for GAD.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Hayes, S. C., et al. (1999). Acceptance and commitment therapy: An experiential approach to behavior change. Guilford Press.
- Arch, J. J., et al. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy for the treatment of anxiety disorders: A concise review. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 25(2), 115-120.
- Eifert, G. H., & Forsyth, J. P. (2005). Acceptance and commitment therapy for anxiety disorders: A practitioner's treatment guide to using mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based behavior change strategies. New Harbinger Publications.
- Roemer, L., et al. (2008). Mindfulness and acceptance-based behavioral therapies in practice. Guilford Press.
- Twohig, M. P., & Hayes, S. C. (2008). Introduction to the special issue on acceptance and commitment therapy in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 22(2), 205-207.
- Arch, J. J., et al. (2014). Acceptance and commitment therapy for generalized anxiety disorder in older adults: A preliminary report. Behavior Therapy, 45(3), 447-455.