What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common side effects of treatments for aggression, such as Cognitive Behavioral Affective Therapy (CBAT), are generally minimal. They can include temporary increases in anxiety or distress as patients confront challenging thoughts and emotions. Some individuals may experience frustration or discomfort during the process of changing long-standing behavioral patterns. Overall, these therapies are well-tolerated and considered safe, with the benefits often outweighing the temporary discomforts.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several medications for the treatment of aggression, particularly in the context of neuropsychiatric conditions such as dementia and certain psychiatric disorders. These include antipsychotics like risperidone and aripiprazole, which are often used to manage aggression and irritability. Additionally, mood stabilizers such as lithium and anticonvulsants like valproate have been used off-label to treat aggression. While these medications do not specifically align with the cognitive-behavioral mechanisms of CBAT, they address the affective components of anger and aggression. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are also commonly recommended to modify dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors associated with aggression.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to CBAT for treating aggression include Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Schema Therapy focuses on identifying and changing deeply ingrained patterns or schemas that contribute to dysfunctional behavior and emotions. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help patients regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and improve interpersonal relationships. Both therapies have shown efficacy in managing emotional dysregulation and maladaptive behaviors, making them suitable alternatives for aggression treatment.

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Behavioral Intervention

Cognitive Behavioral Affective Therapy for Anger

N/A

Recruiting

Research Sponsored by The University of Texas at San Antonio

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Be older than 18 years old

Must not have

Does not speak English

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up one month after end of treatment program

Summary

This trial aims to test the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Affective Therapy (CBAT) in helping people who struggle with excessive anger. The therapy teaches techniques to manage anger by recognizing triggers and using calming strategies. The goal is to reduce the negative impact of anger on health and behavior.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for individuals who struggle with excessive anger, such as those with Intermittent Explosive Disorder or related conditions. It's aimed at people whose anger leads to distress and problems in daily life. Participants should be interested in exploring therapy to manage their emotions.

What is being tested?

The study tests Cognitive Behavioral Affective Therapy (CBAT), a form of 'anger management' therapy designed to reduce anger levels. The effectiveness of CBAT will be measured through various assessments within a community sample.

What are the potential side effects?

While not explicitly stated, psychological interventions like CBAT may sometimes lead to increased emotional discomfort initially as individuals confront and work through difficult feelings.

Eligibility Criteria

Exclusion Criteria

You may be eligible for the trial if you check “No” for criteria below:

Select...

I do not speak English.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ one month after end of treatment program

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~one month after end of treatment program

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and one month after end of treatment program for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Anger Expressions Scale (AES)

Anger Parameters Scale (APS)

Self-Monitored Anger (Anger Log)

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Placebo Group

Group I: Cognitive Behavioral Affective TherapyExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group receiving CBAT.

Group II: Emotional EducationPlacebo Group1 Intervention

Group receiving general emotion psychoeducation.

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Cognitive Behavioral Affective Therapy (CBAT) aims to modify dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts through a systematic, goal-oriented procedure. This involves addressing both cognitive and affective components of anger, which is crucial for aggression patients as it helps them understand and manage their emotional responses, reduce impulsive behaviors, and develop healthier coping strategies. By targeting the underlying cognitive distortions and emotional dysregulation, CBAT can effectively reduce the frequency and intensity of aggressive outbursts, leading to improved social interactions and overall quality of life.

Psychological therapies for the management of chronic pain (excluding headache) in adults.