ΕΥΑΓΓΕΛΟΣ ΠΑΝΟΥΣΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ

Εισαγωγή

Για τα περισσότερα άτομα που αναζητούν υποστήριξη από έναν ειδικό υγείας, πρωταρχικός στόχος μιας θεραπείας είναι συνήθως η ανακούφιση από τα συμπτώματα (σωματικά ή ψυχικά) που προβληματίζουν έντονα το άτομο που αναζητά βοήθεια. Στις περιπτώσεις εκείνες όπου οι προβληματικές καταστάσεις αφορούν θέματα σωματικής υγείας, το συνηθέστερο είναι οι στόχοι της θεραπείας καθώς και η θεραπευτική μέθοδος που θα εφαρμοσθεί να υπαγορεύονται από τον ειδικό γιατρό. Ωστόσο στην περίπτωση της ψυχοθεραπείας, οι στόχοι της θεραπείας καθώς και ο τρόπος προσέγγισης αυτών των στόχων κάθε άλλο παρά γίνεται μονομερώς.

Abstract

In the present paper an overview of the basic ingredients of group psychotherapy for psychosis is attempted. To this end, the usefulness of group psychotherapy as an adjunctive form of treatment for psychosis is highlighted, together with the challenges and difficulties that this form of therapy can entail. Also, a brief presentation of the common elements that various forms of group psychotherapy may share across therapeutic approaches is attempted, alongside with common therapeutic factors, therapists’ roles, as well as issues of transference and countertransference. Additionally, group psychotherapeutic modalities based on the cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches are outlined together with research evidence for their outcome effectiveness. Finally, the possibility for the integration of elements from these two psychotherapeutic approaches is discussed.           

Abstract

Based on existing literature, a brief presentation of the conceptualizations and empirical assessment of the phenomenon of workaholism is attempted. More emphasis is given in the view of workaholism as a pathological - under certain circumstances – behavior, more akin to that of an addictive behavior. Accordingly, studies are reviewed examining the prevalence, and consequences of such an addictive behavior. Moreover, a review of suggested preventive interventions and treatment modalities of workaholism is presented alongside with recommendations and suggested implications for such therapeutic endeavors based in the relevant literature. Finally, the need for more research is highlighted in order for a more sound documentation of the defining features, constituents, antecedents, and primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions of workaholism to be succeeded.     

Abstract

Social phobia (social anxiety disorder) refers to one of the most common anxiety disorders, with lifetime and 12-month prevalence rates to reach approximately 12 and 7% respectively. The disorder may appear early in life, especially during adolescence, it may comorbid with other anxiety, mood, and substance use disorders, while females seem to be more vulnerable in developing the disorder. Its key feature refers to the experience of excessive and persistent fear as elicited by social or performance evaluative situations leading to avoidance behaviors or to the experience of significant distress, consequently resulting in detrimental effects in one’s social, occupational and daily life. From a developmental perspective, temperamental traits and familial patterns seem to interact with environmental factors (such as overprotecting, over-controlling, and negative parenting styles, as well as aversive social experiences) accounting for the appearance and development of the disorder. Also, maladaptive cognitions and behaviors exhibited by people with social phobia contribute to the maintenance of the disorder. Finally, evidence-based efficacious treatments of the disorder are discussed, referring to medication (SSRI’s & Benzodiazepines) and therapeutic interventions (cognitive-behavioral therapies, interpersonal therapy, acceptance & commitment, and mindfulness-based therapies).