Dimidjian BA
Behavioural Activation vs Cognitive Therapy vs Antidepressant
Patient / Population Intervention / Exposure Comparison Outcome
In 241 adults with MDD, behavioural activation achieved the same acute response in severe depression as paroxetine, cognitive therapy or pill placebo.
N
241
Design
4-arm RCT, USA
Endpoint
HRSD response at 16 weeks
Relevance
2
ResultIn severe MDD BA = paroxetine > CT; in milder MDD all active arms equivalent.
Dimidjian S, et al. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2006;74(4):658-670. 10.1037/0022-006X.74.4.658
Discussion & critique
Revived behavioural activation as a stand-alone, simpler alternative to full cognitive therapy.