Comparing the Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing and Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy on Reducing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in War Veterans

The aim of this study was to compare effectiveness of eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive - behavioral therapy (CBT) on reducing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in War Veterans. The population of this investigation was formed by 400 veterans of holy war who referred to military health services. Study sample contained 200 veterans who randomly selected and asked to complete PCL questionnaire. From 80 respondents who achieved above minimum score from questioner، 40 persons were chosen randomly and categorized in two experimental and one control groups. Subjects in the experimental group received eight sessions of CBT training and 8 sessions of EMDR therapy. Post tests were taken from all participants after therapy sessions. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA in SPSS version 16. Our finding indicated the significant difference between EMDR and CBT group in term of average PTSD. We have also found a significant difference in term of average PTSD between control group and CBT as well as EMDR groups. The results of present study indicated that Eye movement Desensitization Reprocessing method and Cognitive-behavioral therapy are effective in reducing post traumatic stress disorder. We have also found that EMDR is more effective than CBT.