Desensitization of Triggers and Urge Reduction for Paruresis: A Case Report
Paruresis is a special type of non generalized social phobia that involves fear and avoidance of urination in public restrooms. We administered eight 60 minute sessions of desensitization of triggers and urge reduction (DeTUR) an addiction protocol of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, to a 29 year old man with paruresis of 10 year duration. Because phobic avoidance is the hallmark of any anxiety disorder, we applied DeTUR targeting the urge to avoid each anxiety provoking situation in succession. After treatment, the participant no longer met the requirements for a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, and the self reported symptoms of social anxiety had decreased to non clinical levels; furthermore, these treatment gains were maintained at the one year follow up. Further clinical studies are needed to generalize this finding.
Psychiatry investigation