The Development of Acceptance of Chronic Tinnitus in the Course of a Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy.

OBJECTIVE

Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) is an effective treatment for tinnitus distress. Recently, acceptance-based approaches have received growing attention within the treatment of chronic tinnitus. The development of tinnitus acceptance within CB treatment remains unclear. This study investigates the efficacy of a CBT group therapy and the corresponding change in tinnitus acceptance.

METHODS

68 outpatients took part in a CBT group therapy over a 3-month period. Effect sizes and paired t-tests were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the CBT treatment and to investigate the development of acceptance.

RESULTS

Results showed a significant decrease in tinnitus distress and an increase in tinnitus acceptance. Improvements were maintained over a 6-month follow-up period in which large effect sizes were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

CBT is considered an effective treatment for tinnitus distress in patients with chronic tinnitus. Acceptance of chronic tinnitus clearly improved within a CBT group therapy.