Behavioral activation as standalone treatment

Research shows behavioral activation alone is as effective as full CBT for severe depression, and superior to antidepressants at follow-up.

Evidence-based psychotherapy has demonstrated efficacy comparable to psychopharmacotherapy for most common disorders, with effects that are often more durable. The diversification of approaches — from CBT to psychodynamic treatments and third-wave therapies — has allowed interventions to be tailored to individual patient needs.

The first decade of the 21st century was a period of rapid advances in neuroscience, genetics, and behavioral economics. Functional neuroimaging allowed us to see the brain in action, while complete genomes opened the era of genetic research in psychology.

Significance: This milestone significantly contributed to the development of psychology as a science and profession, influencing research, clinical practice, or public policy.