Violences conjugales et psychothérapie Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) : études de cas

Abstract: The objective of this article is to investigate the effects of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing treatment for victims of domestic violence. Five women were offered treatment with between three and nine 60-minute EMDR sessions. Assessments were completed at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at the 6-month follow-up, with the purpose of demonstrating the ability of EMDR psychotherapy to reduce Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Results showed a significant reduction in PTSD scores (intrusion, avoidance symptoms), anxiety, and depression, and were maintained after 6months. This study opens up original perspectives for the treatment of domestic violence victims. The question of EMDR therapy''s adequacy and pertinence for the treatment of domestic violence will be discussed. In any case, EMDR therapy seems to offer a promising therapeutic, social, and clinical response for this population, which is often difficult to treat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]