Are RCT designs in psychotherapy research essential and exclusively necessary to advance ESTs?

Are RCT designs in psychotherapy research essential and exclusively necessary to advance ESTs?

Within the literature westen et al. Seem to bring forth one of the more convincing papers addressing the problems with RCT designs, and advocate the use of alternative measure for psychotherapy research. Westen et al. Bring to light some serious concerns. The issues brought to light in the Westen et al, paper will be addressed as well as the response to the allegations. RCT designs in psychotherapy research are essential in psychotherapy research to advance ESTs, however, I do not believe they are exclusively necessary for their advancement. RCTs are one of the most important components in psychotherapy research but not the only component. Westen et. al., brings forth some interesting allegations regarding the use of RCTs. Some of which are widely agreed upon, others which appear to be nothing other than faulty allegations.

Westen et. al., brings forth some interesting allegations regarding the use of RCTs. Some of which are widely agreed upon, others which appear to be nothing other than faulty allegations.

Westens argument

Malleability (short term) -- explain what he says – and then explain how that is not true (give example)

Westen’s promotion of long-term therapies seem to ignore the issues of cost and patient compliance (Haaga, 2004). A heavy burden of cost and ability to keep patients in long term studies should beimportant considerations when comparing longer term and shorter therapies (Haaga, 2004).

- Discourage inclusion criteria, other than that a normal clinician would exclude in an everyday setting (Thompson-Brenner, 2004).

Co-morbidity

 Inclusion criteria – excluded patients are more challenging that the enrolled patients (Haaga, 2004).

Isolation of personality characteristics

Problem with using DSM

By thinking categorically