A Comparative Review on the Efficacy of Third-Wave Cognitive Therapies (DBT and ACT) Versus Traditional CBT in Managing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating psychiatric condition that severely affects individuals’ quality of life. Traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard for treating OCD, but third-wave cognitive therapies, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), offer promising alternatives. This review examines the comparative efficacy of these therapies in managing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, emphasizing their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations. The article synthesizes findings from existing studies to identify gaps and potential directions for future research, particularly focusing on cultural adaptations relevant to non-Western populations like India.