Comparison of the effectiveness between cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness based cognitive therapy in mediator variables of generalized anxiety disorder

The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Cognitive-Behavior (CBT) therapy (Borkovec model) and mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in mediator variables of generalized anxiety disorder. A Semi experimental design using pre and post-test and a four months follow up was conducted. The statistical population comprised of women with generalized anxiety disorder in Tehran. Participants’ selection was based on availability and they were randomly assigned into two groups. In this research, the following measurement tools were used: Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Cognitive Avoidance Scale (CAQ), Problem Solving Inventory (PSI), Dysregulation of Emotion Scale (DERS), Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS). Participants completed the tools in pre&post test and 4 months follow up. Data were analyzed via repeated measure analysis of variance. Results showed that CBT was effective in reducing cognitive avoidance, improving problem solving and emotion regulation in post-test and follow up compared to MBCT. MBCT was significantly effective in improving mindfulness attention awareness and self-compassion. It is inferred from the results that the effectiveness of the two treatments in mediator variables is different.