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The Effectiveness 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 gained recognition as a promising intervention for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), emphasizing acceptance of distressing thoughts and feelings while promoting committed action toward values-based goals. 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 a comprehensive 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, active control) in targeting GAD symptoms, including worry, somatic symptoms, and functional impairment. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, treatment format (individual vs. group), and participant characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of ACT for GAD.
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References
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