Predicting Treatment-Outcome in Trichotillomania: Are Self-Control Cognitions Predictors for Relapse after Treatment?

Abstract

Trichotillomania (TTM) is a mental disorder characterized by compulsive hair pulling in patients. Treatment with cognitive-behavioral therapycan be considered to be effective on short-term, but relapse percentages are high. The present study examines the role of self-control cognitions in predicting relapse after treatment. Self-control cognitions are defined as negative beliefs about the possibility to resist the urge of hair-pulling. It is hypothesized that self-control cognitions predict TTM symptoms after treatment. To test the hypothesis, the MGHS, SURF and SCCQ were administered before patient received a standard manual-based treatment and after treatment (immediately after, 3 months after treatment ended and 6 months after treatment ended). Results showed effectiveness of given treatment, but no predictive value of self-control cognitions. Limitations and indications for further research are discussed.