| This study examines two different short-term, time-limited group psychotherapy approaches for treating social phobia. The researcher utilized Irvin Yalom's interpersonal/interactional style, and a more structured approach, similar to Hope and Heimberg's (1993) Cognitive-Behavioral Group Psychotherapy (CBGT), in conducting two different eight-week treatment groups. A qualitative analysis investigated the experience of individual participants in each of the groups and their evaluation of the effectiveness of the different therapeutic approaches. Strengths and shortcomings of the therapeutic approaches are critically evaluated.; Qualitative data revealed that participants in both groups benefited from the respective treatments. Most group members experienced decreased interpersonal fears, an increased desire to interact socially, a greater understanding of the effects of their disorder, and a more positive outlook for the future. This study may contribute to a reconsideration and broadening of the manner in which treatment is conceptualized and undertaken with individuals experiencing social phobia. Suggestions for future clinical and empirical investigation are made. |
