January 28, 2007
Early Cognitive Enhancement Therapy May Improve Emotional Intelligence in Schizophrenia
Researchers exploring the use of "cognitive enhancement therapy" (CET) for enhancing social cognition in patients with schizophrenia find that, when used early-on in the course of the illness, it does improve emotional intelligence with "the most pronounced improvements occurring in patients' ability to understand and manage their own and others' emotions".
PsychiatryMatters.MD reports that researchers examined the effects of CET versus "enriched supportive therapy" (EST) carried out for a year. The CET group completed approximately 60 hours of computer training in attention, memory, and problem-solving, and also participated in a weekly social-cognitive group that focused on learning how to take the perspective of others, read non-verbal cues, manage emotions, and assess the social context. The EST group worked through components from the basic and intermediate phases of personal therapy, which focus on stress reduction strategies and psycho-education.
The CET helped patients emotionally, as well as in thinking and decision-making. Authors Shaun Eack and team write that
"The ability to understand the meaning of emotions within a social context and apply appropriate regulation strategies when necessary is an important cornerstone of healthy social interactions."
Read the Article: Cognitive therapy improves emotional intelligence in schizophrenia patients
Source: Schizophr Res 2007; 89: 308-311
Schizophrenia and Emotional Intelligence (Social Cognition)
CBT (Cognitive-behavioral therapy) vs Psychoeducation
Posted by Jeanie Wolfson at January 28, 2007 01:15 PM
More Information on Psycho-social Treaments
I was thinking how this would be useful for children with autistic-spectrum disorders and found that, "yes" - this same therapy is being studied for them as well (see here: A Social Adjustment Enhancement Intervention for High Functioning Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder NOS ) with similar results.
I was thinking that a LOT of high-functioning adults with asperger, that have "slipped through the cracks", would appreciate this type of therapy being available as well.
I have heard of social group therapy available for children - but not for adults - at least not in my area... and definitely not with computers, and other stuff that this paper described.
I hope it becomes generally available soon!
Posted by: Naomi at January 29, 2007 08:28 AM
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