Narrative Exposure Therapy for Reducing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Iranian Betrayed Wives

PTSD and depression are most prevalent disorders in traumatic events. This research studies reducing symptoms of PTSD and comorbid depression through narrative exposure therapy (NET). NET incorporated many of exposure elements with additional focus of clearly documenting the atrocities endured. 24 betrayed women with PTSD and depression were randomized in experiment and control groups. Participants were clinically interviewed and filled out impact of event scale-revised (IES-R) and Beck Depression inventory (BDI) for three times; once before and once after 8 sessions of experiment group’s therapy. Third time was three months after therapy. Data were analyzed using repeated measures variances analysis. PTSD and its two parameters (intrusion & hyperarousal) significantly reduce in experiment group, immediately after therapy and in three months follow up. Depression also reduces significantly immediately after therapy and continues to reduce three months after therapy. According to this study, NET is beneficial therapy for PTSD even in social fields. NET successfulness in Iranian culture is ascribed to narrative aspect of NET. This study endorses that extra-marital relationship causes PTSD in victims.