The Development of Acceptance of Chronic Tinnitus in the Course of a Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy

Objective: Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) is an effective treatment for tinnitus distress. Recently, acceptance-based approaches have received growing attention within the treatment of chronic tinnitus. The development of tinnitus acceptance within CB treatment remains unclear. This study investigates the efficacy of a CBT group therapy and the corresponding change in tinnitus acceptance. Methods: 68 outpatients took part in a CBT group therapy over a 3-month period. Effect sizes and paired t-tests were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the CBT treatment and to investigate the development of acceptance. Results: Results showed a significant decrease in tinnitus distress and an increase in tinnitus acceptance. Improvements were maintained over a 6-month follow-up period in which large effect sizes were observed. Conclusions: CBT is considered an effective treatment for tinnitus distress in patients with chronic tinnitus. Acceptance of chronic tinnitus clearly improved within a CBT group therapy.