Efficacy of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy on Dysfunctional Attitude among Psychosomatic Patients: Case Reports

Abstract

The aim of the study was a) to study the specific dysfunctional attitude among psychosomatic patients, b) to determine the relationship between dysfunctional attitude and severity level of psychosomatic disorder and 3) to examine the efficacy of body scan mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in the reduction of dysfunctional attitude thereby reduction in the severity level of psychosomatic disorders. The hypotheses were carried out that a) there is correlation between dysfunctional attitude and severity level of psychosomatic disorders and b) there is positive change after MBCT in the dysfunctional attitude and severity level of psychosomatic disorders. Patients had been referred by physician with diagnosis of psychosomatic disorders at a private clinic, Bangalore, India. Out of ten patients, six patients (4 male and 2 female) in the age range of 30 to 50 years, middle socio-economic status randomly selected for the study.  Ex-post facto design was used. Pre and post assessment approach was used. Dysfunctional Attitude Scale, Pathology testing and Rating Scale of Symptoms of Psychosomatic Disorders- self prepared were done. MBCT intervention was done. Qualitative and correlation analysis were carried out. Results revealed that patients show specific dysfunctional attitude such as perfectionism, vulnerability, disapproval-dependence, and need for approval. It can be concluded that mindfulness based cognitive therapy is effective in changing specific dysfunctional attitude whereby reduction in severity level of psychosomatic disorders.