Emetophobia - A Metacognitive Therapeutic Approach for an Overlooked Disorder.

OBJECTIVE

Emetophobia is the specific fear of vomiting that usually commences during childhood and adolescence. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to expose patients to vomiting. In this paper, a newly developed metacognitive concept and treatment approach to this disorder is illustrated within a small case series.

METHODS

Three adolescent girls with emetophobia were treated with metacognitive therapy (MCT). Measures of anxiety, worry, depression, and metacognitions before and after the treatment were documented.

RESULTS

All patients recovered during the course of 8 to 11 sessions, and measurements of anxiety, worry, depression, and metacognitions dropped markedly.

CONCLUSIONS

MCT presents a valuable treatment option for emetophobia in adolescents.