Treating Anxiety & Related Disorders: Anxiety, Trauma, and OCD Treatments Explained | Chapter 4 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology

Chapter 4 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology examines anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. You will learn the difference between anxiety and fear, the triple vulnerability model, the defining features of major disorders, and the most effective treatment approaches. Use this guide to reinforce your exam preparation and deepen your clinical understanding.

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Anxiety, Fear, and Panic Defined

Anxiety is a future-oriented state characterized by tension and physiological arousal. Fear is an immediate response to present danger. Panic attacks are sudden surges of intense fear that may be expected (triggered by a situation) or unexpected. The triple vulnerability model explains that anxiety disorders arise from a biological predisposition, a generalized psychological vulnerability, and specific learned fears.

Major Anxiety and Trauma-Related Disorders

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Chronic worry, muscle tension, restlessness. Treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and mindfulness practices.
• Panic Disorder & Agoraphobia: Recurrent panic attacks and avoidance of situations where escape seems difficult. Use panic control therapy (PCT), exposure therapy, and SSRIs.
• Specific Phobias: Irrational fears of objects or situations. Exposure-based therapies are highly effective.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Fear of negative evaluation in social settings. Treatments include CBT, exposure, SSRIs, and beta-blockers.
• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Persistent re-experiencing of trauma, avoidance, and hyperarousal. Prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are primary approaches.

Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive obsessions and repetitive compulsions. Treat with exposure and response prevention (ERP), SSRIs, and deep brain stimulation for severe cases.
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Distorted body image and compulsive appearance checks. CBT and SSRIs are recommended.
• Trichotillomania & Excoriation Disorder: Compulsive hair pulling or skin picking. Habit reversal training and CBT help reduce symptoms.

Treatment Approaches and Best Practices

Evidence-based treatments combine psychotherapy, medication, and behavioral strategies. CBT addresses dysfunctional thought patterns. Exposure therapies reduce avoidance and fear by gradual confrontation. SSRIs regulate neurotransmitters to alleviate anxiety. Trauma-focused therapies like CPT and EMDR support recovery from PTSD. Habit reversal training targets body-focused repetitive behaviors.

Conclusion: Integrating Care for Anxiety and Related Disorders

A multidimensional understanding of anxiety, trauma, and OCD informs personalized treatment plans that target biological, psychological, and social factors. Master these concepts to strengthen your clinical skills and excel in exams.

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