Published in

Elsevier, Behavior Therapy, 4(44), p. 559-567

DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2013.03.002

Links

Tools

Export citation

Search in Google Scholar

The Theory-Practice Gap in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Reflections and a Modest Proposal to Bridge the Gap

Journal article published in 2013 by Keith Dobson ORCID, Shadi Beshai ORCID
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

Full text: Download

Green circle
Preprint: archiving allowed
Red circle
Postprint: archiving forbidden
Red circle
Published version: archiving forbidden
Data provided by SHERPA/RoMEO

Abstract

This manuscript examines the issues related to the gap between theory and practice in the area of cognitive-behavioral therapy. The article begins with a review of the evidence for such a gap, and having demonstrated that the gap exists, provides a discussion of some of the factors that are likely important in its genesis and maintenance. The article then focuses on potential strategies to reduce the theory-practice gap that go beyond the common recommendation for both efficacy and effectiveness research. In particular, we provide recommendations for protocol planning and design, training and competency maintenance, dissemination research, and implementation and policy change. We conclude with the proposition that theory and research should not only inform practice, but that practice should have a reciprocal benefit on theory and research.