Lovell et al (OCD and Telephonic CBT)

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What psychological disorder was studied in Lovell et al. (2006)?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – an anxiety-related disorder characterised by unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions).

What was the aim of Lovell et al. (2006)?

To compare the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) delivered via telephone versus face-to-face in treating patients with OCD.

What theory supports the treatment approach in Lovell et al. (2006)?

CBT helps patients recognise and change maladaptive thoughts and behaviours. Teletherapy may improve access while maintaining effectiveness.

Why is telephone CBT considered useful in treating OCD?

It reduces cost, increases accessibility, avoids waitlists, and helps patients who are anxious about in-person treatment settings.

What research method and design were used in Lovell et al. (2006)?

Randomised controlled trial (RCT) using independent measures design. Participants randomly assigned to telephonic or face-to-face CBT.

What was the sample in Lovell et al. (2006)?

72 patients aged 16–72 from two UK outpatient clinics. All had a Y-BOCS score ≥16. Excluded if they had substance abuse or comorbid psychological conditions.

How were the therapists trained in Lovell et al. (2006)?

Therapists received manuals, fortnightly supervision, and 4-monthly training to ensure consistency across both therapy conditions.

How many therapy sessions were provided in Lovell et al. (2006)?

10 weekly sessions: 60-minute face-to-face or 30-minute telephonic sessions. Both groups received exposure and response prevention (ERP) techniques.

How was OCD severity measured in Lovell et al. (2006)?

The Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) was used to measure symptom severity. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) assessed depressive symptoms.

What were the key results of Lovell et al. (2006)?

No significant difference between telephonic and face-to-face CBT. Both groups showed large reductions in Y-BOCS scores and high client satisfaction.

What was considered a “clinically relevant” improvement in Lovell et al. (2006)?

A drop in Y-BOCS score by two standard deviations. This occurred in 72% of all patients: 77% in the telephonic group and 67% in the face-to-face group.

What conclusion was drawn from Lovell et al. (2006)?

Telephone-delivered CBT is as effective as face-to-face CBT in treating OCD, with similar outcomes and high satisfaction reported in both groups.

How generalisable is Lovell et al. (2006)?

Moderate – decent sample size, but all UK-based. Cultural differences and digital access may limit generalisability elsewhere.

How reliable is Lovell et al. (2006)?

High reliability – standardised measures (Y-BOCS, BDI), consistent therapy protocol, and controlled trial design ensured internal reliability.

How applicable is Lovell et al. (2006)?

Very applicable – shows that teletherapy is a viable alternative for OCD treatment. Especially relevant for remote or underserved populations.

How valid is Lovell et al. (2006)?

High internal validity – random allocation, use of validated scales, and independent scoring reduce bias. External validity somewhat limited.

What ethical considerations were addressed in Lovell et al. (2006)?

Informed consent given. Data anonymised. Participants could withdraw (some did). Screening excluded high-risk individuals to ensure safety.

What debate is addressed in Lovell et al. (2006) – free will vs determinism?

Supports free will – CBT requires active participation and personal responsibility for change. Contrasts with deterministic medical models.

What debate is addressed in Lovell et al. (2006) – idiographic vs nomothetic?

Nomothetic – general conclusions from quantitative data and group comparisons. Some idiographic insights from client satisfaction responses.

What debate is addressed in Lovell et al. (2006) – cultural differences?

Western-developed tools like Y-BOCS may not apply equally across cultures. Cultural expression of symptoms may differ, affecting assessment and treatment.