Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy be Effective for Social Anxiety Disorder with Dissociative and Self-Harm Behaviors in a 15-Year-Old Adolescent?

Abstract

Social anxiety disorder can be quite a challenge for adolescents, often leading to intense fear of social situations and sometimes even dissociation. In this case study, we explored the experiences of a 15-year-old girl who was dealing with social anxiety disorder, dissociation, and self-harm. Despite initially showing symptoms of anxiety, avoiding social situations, and experiencing dissociation, the patient made significant progress through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). One notable aspect of this case was the patient's experience of dissociation, which manifested as interactions with imaginary friends. This highlights the need for further research and consideration of dissociative symptoms in the context of social anxiety disorder. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of these symptoms. While our main focus in therapy was on reducing social anxiety, it's worth noting that the patient's dissociative symptoms and self-harming behaviors significantly improved with CBT. This underscores the effectiveness of CBT as a powerful treatment option for managing social anxiety disorder, dissociation, and self-harm.