Acceptability of computerised cognitive behavioural therapies : perceptions of clients with chronic depression

• Main Author: Haigh, L.
• Published: University College London (University of London) 2010
• Subjects: 616.89
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.625413

This thesis comprises three parts: Part 1 is a review of the literature regarding computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CCBT) for depression and anxiety disorders focussing specifically on its benefits and drawbacks for clients and clinicians. The review finds strong evidence for the effectiveness of CCBT, mixed evidence for the benefits and drawbacks of CCBT and little existing literature on the acceptability to clients, identifying gaps in the literature which could be addressed by future research. Part 2 is an empirical paper of a qualitative study which used focus groups and interviews to explore the views of clients with chronic depression on computerised interventions in general and their specific views of standard Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassionate Mind Training (CMT), using the biomedical model of depression for comparison purposes. Using a thematic analysis approach, key themes which emerged from the focus groups and interviews are identified and supplementary quantitative data is provided. The findings highlight some of the perceived benefits and drawbacks of computerised interventions in general and of the CBT, CMT and biomedical models for a chronically depressed group. Part 3 is a critical appraisal of the research process, highlighting methodological and ethical issues which emerged during the course of the study. It also includes personal reflections on the process of carrying out the research.