ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book offers a summary of the results of two decades of detailed quantitative studies of voice-hearing, as well as an overview of qualitative research into the lived experience of voice-hearing. It focuses upon Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to explore its practice and effectiveness as reported within an emerging research literature. A Person Based Cognitive Therapy (PBCT) model explains the state of the evidence base regarding both the effectiveness of approaches and the purported mechanisms of change. The book reviews both quantitative and qualitative research to determine the relevance of interpersonal perspectives to theoretical models of and therapy for distressing voices. It explains that hearers develop with their voices share many properties with interpersonal relationships within the social world. The book argues that future trials are designed to allow for robust mediation analysis.
