A philosopher asks whether therapy should be evaluated like drugs
Abstract
Although randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have many merits and are suitable for interventions such as pharmaceuticals, there is a mismatch between RCTs and therapy. RCTs presuppose interventions that are standardised, specific, time-limited and measurable, characteristics that are less straightforward for therapy. Instead, a pluralistic evidence base is required for therapy.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Meta-analysis and systematic reviews
Animal testing and alternatives
Pain Management and Placebo Effect
Publication details
- Journal / source
- The British Journal of Psychiatry
- Publisher
- Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Pages
- 1–4
- Publication date
- 1 June 2026
- Language
- EN