Conflictos cognitivos (dilemas) en pacientes diagnosticados con trastornos de ansiedad

Abstract

The following exploratory and descriptive study identifies a type of cognitive conflict, implicative dilemmas (ID), in patients with Anxiety Disorders (AD). The concept of ID refers to the fact that symptom loosing, still being desirable, it could lead to negative consequences for self-identity. Based on a Constructivist approach and using Kelly's Repertory Grid Technique, this study compared the presence and number of IDs in a sample of 45 patients and in a group of 39 controls. Results showed a significant difference between the presence of IDs in anxious patients (49%) and the control group (25%). If these dilemmas express psychological conflict and suffering, anxiety might be a symptomatic manifestation. This idea signals the importance of treating anxious patients not only symptomatically but also resolving the cognitive conflicts found. These results are particularly relevant in developing and planning an efficient and adequate therapeutic focused intervention in function to patient needs and to their cognitive structures. © 2011 Fundación AIGLÉ.