EMDR Summary

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A total of nine articles were used. Through this form of analysis, the reviewers found that 96 percent of the ratings agreed (Albright & Thyer, 2010). This indicated that each of the studies used the same instruments to assess EMDR on veterans experiencing symptoms of PTSD. Each of the studies examined provided little evidence supporting the use of EMDR on combat veterans experiencing symptoms of PTSD. EMDR is considered a placebo therapy meaning that simply the suggestion of treatment can influence the individual’s perception of symptoms. This review had several limitations. One limitation was that each of the studies used in this review were completed using small sample sizes. Because of these smaller sample sizes, the likelihood …show more content…
This would allow for improved statistical analysis and lower the likelihood of random error. A more detailed record should also be used to improve reader comprehension of the study. This should account for possible influencing factors such as prior trauma that occurred before the individual entered combat. The researchers should also follow-up with each case in order to gather correct data involving the long-term duration effects of treatment. It is also important for future research to be completed using veterans with a complete military record in order to ensure accuracy of the recalled event. Future research should include appropriate data to be considered empirically supported. An improved scale would prove a more accurate analysis of future studies as it would be more directed towards EMDR. Finally, due to the current variety of combat veterans, further research must be completed. Combat veterans now consist of women, different combat situations, and a larger number of reserve units (Albright & Thyer, …show more content…
Each treatment involved the veteran recalling the traumatic event. There are very few similarities between treatment methods, however there are several differences. The Goodson et al. (2013) article provided empirical data involving the success of PE therapy. The Albright and Thyer (2010) article found no empirical evidence supporting the use of EMDR when treating the symptoms of PTSD in combat veterans. PE therapy provides the veteran with psychoeducation and coping tools such as deep breathing. The reviewed study on EMDR did not suggest that other coping techniques were involved throughout the therapy. PE also slowly desensitizes the veteran through sessions that slowly increase in severity. This allows the veteran to adapt and adjust at his/her own pace preventing further trauma. EMDR simply requires that the individual focus on the traumatic event. While each form of therapy has practical use, PE therapy is empirically