Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Group with Couples

Abstract

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive behavioral therapy developed originally for difficult to treat cases, such as chronic suicidal patients. Recent research shows that skills only DBT groups are as effective as standard DBT treatments. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no study examining whether skills only DBT group treatment is effective in reducing relationship difficulties in couples. The aim of this study was to examine whether skills only DBT group affect the quality of the romantic relationship in couples. Four couples- eight individuals participated in the study. The treatment lasted for eight weeks; 120 minutes weekly sessions led by two therapists. The Relationship Assessment Scale, the Emotion Regulation Scale, the Distress Tolerance Scale, the Conflict Resolution Styles Scale, the Communication Patterns Scale and the Group Climate Questionnaire were some of the instruments which were used in the study to measure effectiveness of the treatment. DBT group skills training protocol including mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance modules was followed. New skills were presented and homework was assigned each week. Daily diary cards were used to track feelings, behaviors, and skill use of participants. Role plays was utilized to improve intimacy and connection between couples in sessions. At the end of the 8 weeks, the couples reported that the study improved their relationship quality and romance. Measures at pre-treatment, mid-treatment and post-treatment were collected; follow-up data will be collected in 2 months. The findings will be discussed after all the data is obtained.