Apa Format Case Study

APA FORMAT CASE STUDY

I. Executive Summary

This case study investigates the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in alleviating symptoms of anxiety disorders among adult participants. The study examines the outcomes of a 12-week CBT intervention, focusing on the reduction of anxiety symptoms and improvement in overall well-being.

II. Introduction

A. Background

Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental health conditions characterized by excessive worry, fear, and physiological arousal. CBT has emerged as a leading evidence-based treatment for various anxiety disorders due to its focus on modifying maladaptive thoughts and behaviors.

B. Objectives

Evaluate the effectiveness of CBT in reducing symptoms of anxiety disorders.
Assess changes in participants' cognitive and behavioral patterns following CBT intervention.

III. Methodology

A. Participants

The study included 30 adult participants diagnosed with various anxiety disorders, aged between 25 and 45.

Participants were recruited from [Your Clinic Name], following diagnostic assessment by licensed psychologists.

B. Data Collection

Data was collected through structured interviews, self-report measures, and behavioral observations.

Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) before data collection.

C. Data Analysis

Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-sample t-tests.

Qualitative data from interviews was thematically analyzed using NVivo software.

IV. Case Description

A. Case Presentation

Participant X, a 32-year-old female diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), presented with symptoms of excessive worry, restlessness, and sleep disturbances.

History revealed the onset of symptoms during adolescence, exacerbated by life stressors and interpersonal conflicts.

B. Diagnostic Assessment

Diagnostic assessment confirmed criteria for GAD based on DSM-5 criteria.

The severity of anxiety symptoms was assessed using standardized measures, revealing moderate to severe levels of anxiety.

V. Intervention

A. Treatment Plan

Participant X engaged in 12 weekly sessions of individual CBT, focusing on cognitive restructuring and relaxation techniques.

Homework assignments were given to reinforce learned skills and promote generalization to daily life.

B. Progress Monitoring

Progress was monitored through weekly symptom assessments and session feedback.

Participant X's engagement and adherence to homework assignments were tracked to gauge treatment compliance.

VI. Outcome

A. Results

Post-intervention assessments revealed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms, with Participant X reporting decreased worry and improved coping skills.

Behavioral observations indicated increased engagement in social activities and decreased avoidance behaviors.

B. Discussion

The findings support the efficacy of CBT in reducing symptoms of GAD and improving overall functioning.

Limitations include the small sample size and reliance on self-report measures, warranting caution in generalizing results.

VII. Conclusion

This case study demonstrates the promising outcomes of CBT in treating anxiety disorders, underscoring its value as a first-line intervention. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is warranted to validate these findings.

VIII. References

Beck, A. T., & Emery, G. (2050). Anxiety disorders and phobias: A cognitive perspective. Basic Books.
Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2062). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440.