1
|
Meine LE, Müller-Bardorff M, Recher D, Paersch C, Schulz A, Spiller T, Galatzer-Levy I, Kowatsch T, Fisher AJ, Kleim B. Network analyses of ecological momentary emotion and avoidance assessments before and after cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders. J Anxiety Disord 2024; 106:102914. [PMID: 39153405 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2024.102914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Negative emotions and associated avoidance behaviors are core symptoms of anxiety. Current treatments aim to resolve dysfunctional coupling between them. However, precise interactions between emotions and avoidance in patients' everyday lives and changes from pre- to post-treatment remain unclear. We analyzed data from a randomized controlled trial where patients with anxiety disorders underwent 16 sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Fifty-six patients (68 % female, age: M = 33.31, SD = 12.45) completed ecological momentary assessments five times a day on 14 consecutive days before and after treatment, rating negative emotions and avoidance behaviors experienced within the past 30 min. We computed multilevel vector autoregressive models to investigate contemporaneous and time-lagged associations between anxiety, depression, anger, and avoidance behaviors within patients, separately at pre- and post-treatment. We examined pre-post changes in network density and avoidance centrality, and related these metrics to changes in symptom severity. Network density significantly decreased from pre- to post-treatment, indicating that after therapy, mutual interactions between negative emotions and avoidance were attenuated. Specifically, contemporaneous associations between anxiety and avoidance observed before CBT were no longer significant at post-treatment. Effects of negative emotions on avoidance assessed at a later time point (avoidance instrength) decreased, but not significantly. Reduction in avoidance instrength positively correlated with reduction in depressive symptom severity, meaning that as patients improved, they were less likely to avoid situations after experiencing negative emotions. Our results elucidate mechanisms of successful CBT observed in patients' daily lives and may help improve and personalize CBT to increase its effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Meine
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Miriam Müller-Bardorff
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Recher
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Paersch
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ava Schulz
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Spiller
- Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Isaac Galatzer-Levy
- Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; School of Medicine, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland; Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aaron J Fisher
- Department of Psychology, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Birgit Kleim
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sain KS, Lord KA, Knowles KA, Everhardt K, Tolin DF. The relationship between momentary experiential avoidance and anxiety symptoms. ANXIETY, STRESS, AND COPING 2024:1-13. [PMID: 39104256 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2024.2383769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiential avoidance (EA) may serve as a risk factor for a wide range of anxiety-related psychopathology. Anxiety is thought to trigger the use of EA, while also serving as a consequence of EA efforts. Previous ecological momentary assessment (EMA) studies found that EA was associated with greater anxiety in nonclinical undergraduates and patients with social anxiety disorder. METHODS The present study examined the in-the-moment, bidirectional relationship between EA, perceived stress, and two facets of anxiety (autonomic arousal and worry/misery) in a sample of treatment-seeking patients broadly diagnosed with an anxiety-related disorder (N = 46). Participants completed a baseline assessment followed by an EMA assessment period (assessments three times daily for seven days). We hypothesized that there would be a bidirectional relationship between EA and anxiety/stress. RESULTS Results largely supported a unidirectional relationship such that greater EA at one time point predicted higher stress at a later time point controlling for previous stress levels and linear time. Trend-level associations between EA and anxiety symptoms are discussed. CONCLUSIONS The current study provides important insight into the relationship between EA and anxiety symptoms in a clinical sample of participants with anxiety-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly S Sain
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Kayla A Lord
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Kelly A Knowles
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Kate Everhardt
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - David F Tolin
- Anxiety Disorders Center, The Institute of Living, Hartford, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Inostroza C, Bustos C, Bühring V, González L, Cova F. Stress, repetitive negative thinking, and mental health in Chilean university students: an ecological momentary assessment study. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1400013. [PMID: 39100565 PMCID: PMC11295934 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1400013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Mental disorders in university students are a growing attention problem in the international community due to their high prevalence and serious consequences. One possible reason is university students' difficulties in coping with stress. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is a transdiagnostic process that, when combined with stress, can lead to the development of various disorders. We aim to determine the effect of stress and RNT on predicting various mental health syndromes in university students across 7 days. Method Prospective observational study using Momentary Ecological Assessment (EMA) with the OURMIND Mobile App. On day one, 238 university students responded to the SCL-90R questionnaire for symptoms of depression, anxiety, hostility, obsession, psychoticism, paranoia, somatization, and interpersonal sensitivity; RNT styles questionnaires, RRS for rumination and negative reflection, PSWQ for worry; SISCO-II for term academic stress, and sociodemographic. EMA consisted of five assessments a day for 6 days; each time, the students answered items about academic and non-academic stress (EMA-stress), reactive RNT duration and intrusiveness (EMA-RNT process), and reactive RNT rumination, reflection, and worry (EMA-RNT content). On day eight, symptoms were re-assessed. Seven hierarchical stepwise linear regression models were used to test the predictive power of the study variables in the development of SCL-90R symptoms. Results When comparing models, adding baseline symptoms increased the models' predictive power in all symptom groups. In most cases, including EMA-stress generated greater predictive power, except for paranoia and interpersonal sensitivity. Adding the EMA-RNT process increased the prediction of paranoia and obsessive symptoms; for hostility symptoms, RNT styles increased predictive power. For the final regression models, considering the initial symptoms, the EMA-RNT process predicted the progression of symptoms in six out of eight groups, while EMA-non-academic stress predicted the remaining two. Additionally, living with other relatives or friends was a predictor of depressive symptoms. Discussion The stress of university life impacts the development of psychiatric symptoms in university students. These results provide evidence of RNT as a transdiagnostic process in several syndromic groups. Universal preventive programs should consider the impact of academic and non-academic stress on university students' mental health. Targeting RNT would also benefit selective preventive interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Inostroza
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Claudio Bustos
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Vasily Bühring
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Lorena González
- Programa de Magíster en Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Félix Cova
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Southward MW, Kushner ML, Terrill DR, Sauer-Zavala S. A Review of Transdiagnostic Mechanisms in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2024; 47:343-354. [PMID: 38724124 PMCID: PMC11090413 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive behavior therapies (CBTs) are the gold standard treatment for many psychiatric conditions. However, relatively little is known about how CBTs work. By characterizing these mechanisms, researchers can ensure CBTs retain their potency across diagnoses and delivery contexts. We review 3 classes of putative mechanisms: CBT-specific skills (eg, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation), transtheoretical mechanisms (eg, therapeutic alliance, treatment expectancies, self-efficacy beliefs), and psychopathological mechanisms (aversive reactivity, positive affect, attachment style). We point to future research within each class and emphasize the need for more intensive longitudinal designs to capture how each class of mechanisms interacts with the others to improve outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Douglas R Terrill
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Robinson MD, Lindquist JA, Irvin RL. Open-hearted: Preferences for openness in the agreeableness domain. J Pers 2024; 92:378-392. [PMID: 36938754 DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Open objects encourage interactivity and closed objects discourage it. Repeated experiences with open and closed objects are thought to give rise to spatial concepts that can be used to represent a variety of entities such as societies, others, and the self. The present investigation pursues the idea that preferring that which is open to that which is closed is more compatible with an agreeable mode of interacting with others. METHOD Three studies (total N = 901) asked participants whether they preferred "open" or "closed" as spatial concepts. Such preferences were linked to variations in agreeableness, peer perceptions, and daily measures of pro-social functioning. RESULTS Open-preferring, relative to closed-preferring, individuals scored higher in agreeableness (Study 1) and were rated by peers as interpersonally warmer (Study 2). Open preferences varied within and across persons in a daily diary protocol and, in both cases, higher levels of open preference were linked to higher levels of pro-social feeling (Study 3). CONCLUSION The findings point to a fundamental component of spatial orientation that plays a significant role in encouraging (open) or discouraging (closed) warm, interactive relations with others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Robinson
- Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Jade A Lindquist
- Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Roberta L Irvin
- Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sauer-Zavala S, Southward MW, Terrill DR, Semcho SA, Stumpp NE. Mechanism engagement as a potential evidence-based approach to personalized treatment termination. Psychother Res 2024; 34:124-136. [PMID: 36669132 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2023.2168574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study explores whether early change on a putative mechanism maintaining symptoms can serve as a proximal indicator of response to prompt discontinuation. Method: Patients (N = 70; Mage = 33.74, 67% female, 74% white) with heterogeneous anxiety and depressive disorders completed a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART). Patients received 6 sessions of skill modules from the Unified Protocol and then underwent a second-stage randomization to either receive the remaining 6 sessions (Full duration) or discontinue treatment (Brief duration). All participants completed weekly self-report measures of anxiety and depressive symptoms and distress aversion for the full 12-week treatment window. We used structural equation modeling to test (1) if distress aversion demonstrated significant variability during the first-stage randomization and (2) if distress aversion during the first-stage randomization predicted second-stage changes in anxiety and depression. Results: Participants demonstrated significant variability in first-stage distress aversion. Latent distress aversion slopes significantly predicted latent second-stage anxiety slopes, whereas latent distress aversion intercepts significantly predicted latent second-stage depression slopes. Conclusions: These results suggest that early mechanism engagement may have potential as a trigger to prompt personalized termination. Shorter courses of care may reduce patient costs and increase the mental health service system's capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Doug R Terrill
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Stephen A Semcho
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Nicole E Stumpp
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lam MI, Chen P, Zhang Q, Sha S, An FR, Su Z, Cheung T, Ungvari GS, Ng CH, Xiang YT, Feng Y. Prevalence of COVID-19 fear and its association with quality of life and network structure among Chinese mental health professionals after ending China's dynamic zero-COVID policy: a national survey. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1280688. [PMID: 37965522 PMCID: PMC10642929 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1280688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background China recorded a massive COVID-19 pandemic wave after ending its Dynamic Zero-COVID Policy on January 8, 2023. As a result, mental health professionals (MHPs) experienced negative mental health consequences, including an increased level of fear related to COVID-19. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and correlates of COVID-19 fear among MHPs following the end of the Policy, and its association with quality of life (QoL) from a network analysis perspective. Methods A cross-sectional national study was conducted across China. The correlates of COVID-19 fear were examined using both univariate and multivariate analyses. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted to determine the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and QoL. Central symptoms were identified using network analysis through the "Expected Influence" of the network model while specific symptoms directly correlated with QoL were identified through the "flow function." Results A total of 10,647 Chinese MHPs were included. The overall prevalence of COVID-19 fear (FCV-19S total score ≥ 16) was 60.8% (95% CI = 59.9-61.8%). The binary logistic regression analysis found that MHPs with fear of COVID-19 were more likely to be married (OR = 1.198; p < 0.001) and having COVID-19 infection (OR = 1.235; p = 0.005) and quarantine experience (OR = 1.189; p < 0.001). Having better economic status (good vs. poor: OR = 0.479; p < 0.001; fair vs. poor: OR = 0.646; p < 0.001) and health status (good vs. poor: OR = 0.410; p < 0.001; fair vs. poor: OR = 0.617; p < 0.001) were significantly associated with a lower risk of COVID-19 fear. The ANCOVA showed that MHPs with fear of COVID-19 had lower QoL [F = 228.0, p < 0.001]. "Palpitation when thinking about COVID-19" was the most central symptom in the COVID-19 fear network model, while "Uncomfortable thinking about COVID-19" had the strongest negative association with QoL (average edge weight = -0.048). Conclusion This study found a high prevalence of COVID-19 fear among Chinese MHPs following the end of China's Dynamic Zero-COVID Policy. Developing effective prevention and intervention measures that target the central symptoms as well as symptoms correlated with QoL in our network structure would be important to address COVID-19 fear and improve QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Ieng Lam
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Pan Chen
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Qinge Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Sha
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Feng-Rong An
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gabor S. Ungvari
- Section of Psychiatry, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Chee H. Ng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic and St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Davis S, Serfaty M, Low J, Armstrong M, Kupeli N, Lanceley A. Experiential Avoidance in Advanced Cancer: a Mixed-Methods Systematic Review. Int J Behav Med 2023; 30:585-604. [PMID: 36284042 PMCID: PMC10522753 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-022-10131-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with advanced cancer experience psychological distress due to physical symptoms, functional decline, and a limited prognosis. Difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions may exacerbate distress and lead to avoidance of these experiences which is sometimes referred to as experiential avoidance (EA). Advanced cancer patients may be more likely to engage in EA especially when no obvious solutions to their problems exist. This study aims to examine the terms used to describe EA, the processes that might indicate EA, associations between EA and psychological distress, and to understand why individuals might engage in EA. METHODS A mixed-methods review. Literature search of Medline, Embase, Psych INFO, and CINAHL 1980-October 2019. INCLUSION adults ≥ 18 years; advanced cancer not amenable to cure. EXCLUSION no measures of EA or psychological distress. Risk of bias and study quality assessed. Evidence of statistical techniques collected. Themes coded, grouped, and developed based on meaning. RESULTS Nineteen studies identified, 13 quantitative studies and 6 qualitative. The quantitative of which 6 compared early-stage cancers with advanced cancers and examined subscales of EA alongside mood, quality of life, and psychological distress. EA covers a range or terms of which 'avoidant coping' is the commonest. EA is manifest as cognitive, behavioural, and emotional avoidance. A thematic synthesis suggests the function of EA is to protect people from distress, and from confronting or expressing difficult emotions by avoiding communication about cancer, controlling negative information, and maintaining normality and hope and optimism. CONCLUSIONS EA may be beneficial in the short term to alleviate distress, but in the longer term, it can impair function and limit engagement in life. Greater clinical awareness of the complexity of EA behaviours is needed. Clinicians and researchers should define EA precisely and be aware of the function it may serve in the short and longer term. Future research studies may consider using specific measures of EA as a primary outcome, to assess the impact of psychological interventions such as ACT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Davis
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Dept, University College London, Maple House, Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK.
| | - Marc Serfaty
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Joe Low
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Dept, University College London, Maple House, Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Megan Armstrong
- Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nuriye Kupeli
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Dept, University College London, Maple House, Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Anne Lanceley
- EGA Institute for Women's Health, Department of Women's Cancer, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Probst GH, Miller SD, Bargmann S, Flückiger C. Mental health of help-seeking outpatients pre and post COVID-19: A real-world data, multicentre study. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023. [PMID: 37661846 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A great deal of research addresses the mental health implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for the general population. Little is known about the implications for mental health of help-seeking outpatients and for the effectiveness of mental health services. The present study investigated the mental health and treatment response of help-seeking outpatients before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD Routine outcome monitoring data from 3706 clients in the United States and Northern Europe was analysed using multilevel modelling with global subjective well-being as the dependent variable. RESULTS As opposed to before the pandemic, during the pandemic, well-being scores were significantly higher at intake and improvement throughout treatment was significantly smaller in the US sample, while both were comparable in the EU sample. CONCLUSION Although there is also evidence of less effective treatments since the pandemic, no conclusive picture emerges that portrays the impact of the pandemic on mental health as uniform. More research is needed to elucidate the impact of the pandemic on the help-seeking population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Scott D Miller
- International Center for Clinical Excellence, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Susanne Bargmann
- International Center for Clinical Excellence, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christoph Flückiger
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zeifman RJ, Wagner AC, Monson CM, Carhart-Harris RL. How does psilocybin therapy work? An exploration of experiential avoidance as a putative mechanism of change. J Affect Disord 2023; 334:100-112. [PMID: 37146908 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psilocybin therapy is receiving attention as a mental health intervention with transdiagnostic potential. In line with psychotherapeutic research, qualitative research has highlighted the role of reductions in experiential avoidance (and increases in connectedness) within psilocybin therapy. However, no quantitative research has examined experiential avoidance as a mechanism underlying psilocybin therapy's therapeutic effects. METHOD Data was used from a double-blind randomized controlled trial that compared psilocybin therapy (two 25 mg psilocybin session plus daily placebo for six weeks) with escitalopram (two 1 mg psilocybin sessions plus 10-20 mg daily escitalopram for six weeks) among individuals with major depressive disorder (N = 59). All participants received psychological support. Experiential avoidance, connectedness, and treatment outcomes were measured at pre-treatment and at a 6 week primary endpoint. Acute psilocybin experiences and psychological insight were also measured. RESULTS With psilocybin therapy, but not escitalopram, improvements in mental health outcomes (i.e., well-being, depression severity, suicidal ideation, and trait anxiety) occurred via reductions in experiential avoidance. Exploratory analyses suggested that improvements in mental health (except for suicidal ideation) via reduction in experiential avoidance were serially mediated through increases in connectedness. Additionally, experiences of ego dissolution and psychological insight predicted reductions in experiential avoidance following psilocybin therapy. LIMITATIONS Difficulties inferring temporal causality, maintaining blindness to condition, and reliance upon self-report. CONCLUSIONS These results provide support for the role of reduced experiential avoidance as a putative mechanism underlying psilocybin therapy's positive therapeutic outcomes. The present findings may help to tailor, refine, and optimize psilocybin therapy and its delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Zeifman
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada; Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK; NYU Langone Centre for Psychedelic Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, USA.
| | - Anne C Wagner
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada; Remedy Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Candice M Monson
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robin L Carhart-Harris
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK; Psychedelics Division, Neuroscape, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rodriguez-Moreno S, Guillén AI, Tirpak JW, Marín C, Cardona ND, Eustis EH, Farchione TJ, Barlow DH, Panadero S. Mediators and Moderators of Therapeutic Change in the Unified Protocol for Women Experiencing Homelessness. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-022-10335-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
12
|
Kleiman EM, Bentley KH, Wacha-Montes A, Taylor ME, Lozy O, Conti K, Reese Mayer W. A Pilot Implementation-Effectiveness Trial of a Single-Session Telehealth Workshop and Smartphone-Based Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Managing Emotions Among College Students. Behav Ther 2022; 53:1024-1036. [PMID: 35987533 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The number of college students who need mental health treatment outpaces the resources available to counseling centers to provide these needed services, presenting a need for low-cost, scalable interventions for college populations. We conducted a pilot implementation-effectiveness trial of a scalable treatment package that consisted of a single (telehealth) workshop plus a companion app that provided ecological momentary intervention. Participants (n = 177) received a workshop provided by counseling center staff and trainees. We were interested in (1) engagement with the app, (2) acceptability of the treatment package, and (3) initial effectiveness of the treatment package. Regarding engagement with the app, we found that participants preferred two reminder prompts per day and identified two key breakpoints when engagement declined significantly: at day 15, when just over half of the sample practiced a skill on the app at least once during the day and at day 41, when just over one third of people practiced a skill on the app each day. Regarding acceptability of the treatment package, students generally reported positive attitudes about the single-session workshop and app, but also noted that the content and assessments in the app needed to be more dynamic to improve how engaging it is. Regarding effectiveness, we found that about 75% of the sample experienced a significant reduction in negative affect from pre- to post-ecological momentary intervention. Moreover, there were significant pre- to post-study decreases in experiential avoidance and symptoms of anxiety and depression and increases in self-efficacy for managing negative emotions. The results of this study are promising in terms of providing initial support for this novel treatment package and provide useful information for researchers planning to develop and test similar interventions.
Collapse
|
13
|
OCD and Comorbid Depression: Assessment, Conceptualization, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. J Cogn Psychother 2022; 36:191-206. [PMID: 35882535 DOI: 10.1891/jcp-2022-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Many individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) also meet criteria for additional diagnoses. Among the most common co-occurring diagnoses are mood disorders-especially depression. This article focuses on the comorbidity between OCD and major depression. After discussing nature of OCD and depression, the rates and clinical impact of depression on OCD, the conceptualization, assessment, and treatment of OCD when it appears along with depression is covered in detail. The derivation and implementation of a cognitive behavioral treatment program specifically for depressed OCD patients is described and illustrated using a case example.
Collapse
|
14
|
Robinson MD, Irvin RL. Seeking Protection, Finding Despair: Closed Preferences as a Model of Neuroticism-Linked Distress. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1521/jscp.2022.41.3.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Image schemas are perceptual-motor simulations of the world that are likely to have broad importance in understanding models of the self and its regulatory operations. Methods: Seven samples of participants (total N = 1,011) rated their preferences for unspecified entities being “open” or “closed” and scores along this dimension were linked to variations in personality, emotion, and psychopathology. Results: Individuals endorsing closed preferences to a greater extent were prone to neuroticism (Study 1), experiential avoidance (Study 2), negative affect in daily life (Study 3), and symptoms of anxiety and depression (Study 4). Discussion: Although closed preferences are likely to be endorsed for protective reasons (inasmuch as the contents of closed objects are better protected), such preferences are linked to higher, rather than lower, levels of neuroticism and distress. The findings offer new evidence for theories of neuroticism and psychopathology that emphasize operations related to defensive motivation and experiential avoidance.
Collapse
|
15
|
Yela JR, Crego A, Buz J, Sánchez-Zaballos E, Gómez-Martínez MÁ. Reductions in experiential avoidance explain changes in anxiety, depression and well-being after a mindfulness and self-compassion (MSC) training. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:402-422. [PMID: 34904363 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The mindfulness and self-compassion (MSC) protocol has shown efficacy in reducing mental illness symptoms and increasing well-being. However, little is known on how the positive outcomes are produced. This study explores how reductions in experiential avoidance following MSC training may explain changes in the participants' levels of anxiety, depression, and well-being. METHODS The 8-week protocol-based MSC training was delivered to 50 participants, and pre- to post- intervention changes in anxiety, depression, and well-being were measured. A series of mediation models were conducted, with changes in self-compassion as predictor, changes in experiential avoidance as mediator, and changes in mental health and well-being as outcome variables. Point estimates and bootstrap-corrected 95% confidence intervals were calculated to analyse indirect effects through experiential avoidance, by means of structural equation modeling (SEM). RESULTS Following MSC training, participants increased their levels of self-compassion, reduced experiential avoidance, and enhanced mental health (i.e., anxiety and depression symptoms) and well-being scores. Increases in self-compassion were associated with decreases in experiential avoidance, which in turn were connected with changes in anxiety, depression, and well-being from pre- to post-training. The indirect path through changes in experiential avoidance represented moderate to large proportions of the total effects of self-compassion change-scores on anxiety, depression, and well-being change-scores. CONCLUSIONS Reducing experiential avoidance and increasing psychological flexibility may be a key effect of MSC training linked to improvements of the participants' mental health and well-being scores. Self-compassion practices could exert effects on anxiety, depression and well-being mainly through promoting reductions in experiential avoidance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Ramón Yela
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Antonio Crego
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - José Buz
- Department of Education, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Johannsen M, Nissen ER, Lundorff M, O'Toole MS. Mediators of acceptance and mindfulness-based therapies for anxiety and depression A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 94:102156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
17
|
Ching THW, Williams MT, Reed SJ, Kisicki MD, Wang JB, Yazar-Klosinski B, Emerson A, Doblin R. MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Mixed-Methods Case Study of a Participant of Color From an Open-Label Trial. JOURNAL OF HUMANISTIC PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00221678221076993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
MDMA (±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine)-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) was shown in previous clinical trials to have promising efficacy and safety for alleviating treatment-resistant posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, due to low ethnoracial diversity, the question remains as to whether ethnoracial minority participants would benefit similarly. Thus, a mixed-methods case study was conducted on a participant of color from an open-label trial of MDMA-AT for PTSD to provide a culturally informed lens on symptom recovery with this treatment approach. An additional aim was to elucidate mechanisms of change underlying this treatment for the participant. A case profile was provided, documenting quantitative improvement in PTSD symptoms. This was followed by an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) of effects and mechanisms of action for this participant, based on integration session transcripts. Results of IPA indicated recurrent themes related to psychological mechanisms of symptom change, reduced PTSD symptoms, and additional effects (positive and negative) beyond PTSD symptom reduction. These themes were discussed and recommendations for attuning to culturally relevant material during MDMA-AT were provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terence H. W. Ching
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Sara J. Reed
- Minds iHealth Solutions, Inc., Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Amy Emerson
- MAPS Public Benefit Corporation, San Jose, CA, USA
| | - Rick Doblin
- Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), San Jose, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Transdiagnostic Processes as Mediators of Change in an Internet-Delivered Intervention Based on the Unified Protocol. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-021-10272-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Transdiagnostic treatments target shared mechanisms between disorders to facilitate change across diagnoses. The Unified Protocol (UP) aims at changing dysfunctional reactions towards emotions by increasing mindful emotion awareness and cognitive flexibility, as well as decreasing anxiety sensitivity and emotion avoidance.
Method
We investigated whether these transdiagnostic processes were malleable by treatment and mediated the relationship between treatment and outcome in an internet-delivered adaptation of the UP. N = 129 participants with mixed anxiety, depressive, and somatic symptom disorders were randomized to treatment or waitlist.
Results
The treatment yielded significant changes in all transdiagnostic processes over time in comparison to a waitlist condition. In separate mediator models, significant mediating effects were found for mindfulness, cognitive flexibility, behavioral activation, and experiential avoidance. When all mediators were combined in a multiple mediator model, the indirect effects through mindfulness and cognitive flexibility emerged as significant.
Conclusion
These findings add to the growing body of research on transdiagnostic processes as mediators of change and emphasize mindfulness and cognitive flexibility as a transdiagnostic treatment target. However, these results should be interpreted cautiously, as temporal precedence could not be established.
Collapse
|
19
|
Carlucci L, Saggino A, Balsamo M. On the efficacy of the unified protocol for transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2021; 87:101999. [PMID: 34098412 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2021.101999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In recent years a large array of treatment protocols conceptualized as transdiagnostic have been developed with clinical and practical advantages compared to traditional single-disorder protocols. Within this panorama, the Transdiagnostic Unified Protocol (UP) of Emotional Disorders was developed aimed at treating the negative affective processes underlying several diagnostic categories, and accounting for the covariance of different emotional disorders. The UP has been found to efficiently target the roots of these disorders leading to a reduction in symptoms of co-occurring disorders. However, several questions have marginally addressed in the previous studies, and some UP features still remain unexplored. The present meta-analysis aims at evaluating whether the UP results to significant changes in anxiety and depression symptoms severity in children, adolescents, and adults. 19 RCTs and 13 uncontrolled pre-post trials comprising 2183 patients/clients met inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Large to moderate combined overall effect size for both depression plus anxiety were detected in the uncontrolled pre-post studies (g = 0.756) and in RTCs studies (g = 0.452), respectively. Large effect size at pre-treatment to 3-6-month follow-up was observed for combined depression plus anxiety (g = 1.113). Subgroup analysis suggested that UP treatment does not differ across the anxiety and depression self-report measures. Moreover, UP intervention outperformed both passive and active control conditions to treat negative affective syndromes. Meta-regression confirmed the moderate effects of therapist level of experience, the sample characteristics, and the UP-protocol adaptations. The findings indicate that the manualized UP treatment has potential to contribute to improving mental health outcomes, particularly of anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Carlucci
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
| | - Aristide Saggino
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Michela Balsamo
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Psychobiological mechanisms underlying the mood benefits of meditation: A narrative review. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 6:100037. [PMID: 35757358 PMCID: PMC9216450 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological stressors can lead to distress and result in autonomic arousal and activation of a stress response. Ongoing or persistent stress can disrupt the stress response feedback mechanisms and result in elevated cortisol and pro-inflammatory cytokines which can cause damage to brain regions involved in the regulation of mood and emotion. We propose that the magnitude of the stress response experienced in response to psychological stressors depends on a number of modifiable psychological processes including an individual’s level of self-compassion, dispositional mindfulness, tendency to ruminate and attentional bias. We further propose that the stress response elected by psychological stressors can be meditated by influencing these modifiable psychological processes, and that meditation practices can decrease stress and improve mood by decreasing stress reactivity on a psychological, physiological and neurobiological level. We explore this in a narrative review. Meditation decreases blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol and cytokine levels. Meditation increases self-compassion, dispositional mindfulness and meta-cognition. Meditation improves attention and memory. Meditation results in brain changes in regions related to emotion regulation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Transdiagnostic Versus Construct-Specific Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Emotional Disorders in Patients with High Anxiety Sensitivity: A Double-Blind Randomised Clinical Trial. BEHAVIOUR CHANGE 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/bec.2021.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAnxiety sensitivity (AS) is a common vulnerability in emotional disorders. Due to the pathological role of AS, individuals with high AS are faced with emotional problems. Thus, cognitive behavioural interventions try to reduce these problems by targeting AS. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural therapy (T-CBT) and construct-specific CBT (CS-CBT) on AS, anxiety, depression, and positive and negative affect in these patients. To this end, 40 patients with high AS were randomly assigned to one of the three groups of T-CBT, CS-CBT, and wait list. Participants were assessed using the Anxiety and Related Disorders Interview Schedule for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule at baseline, post-treatment, 3-month follow-up, and 6-month follow-up. The findings showed that T-CBT and CS-CBT have a significant effect on AS, anxiety, and negative affect; however, contrary to T-CBT, CS-CBT is not effective for reducing depression and positive affect. T-CBT had a more promising efficacy than CS-CBT in all treatment outcomes. The results show better and more stable efficacy of T-CBT among patients with high AS. It is essential to consider AS as a target for cognitive behavioural intervention for the spectrum of emotional disorders.
Collapse
|
22
|
Jankowski PJ, Captari LE, Sandage SJ. Exploring virtue ethics in psychodynamic psychotherapy: latent changes in humility, affect regulation, symptoms and well‐being. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Jankowski
- Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute Boston University Boston MassachusettsUSA
- Bethel University St. Paul MinnesotaUSA
| | - Laura E. Captari
- Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute Boston University Boston MassachusettsUSA
| | - Steven J. Sandage
- Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute Boston University Boston MassachusettsUSA
- Department of Psychology of Religion MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion, and Society Oslo Norway
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sauer-Zavala S, Southward MW, Semcho SA. Integrating and differentiating personality and psychopathology in cognitive behavioral therapy. J Pers 2020; 90:89-102. [PMID: 33070346 DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A large body of literature supports the strong association between personality features and psychopathology. This research has, however, had little influence on day-to-day therapeutic practice, particularly in cognitive behavioral approaches that have traditionally focused on addressing the symptoms of categorically defined diagnoses. Indeed, there are few CBT protocols aimed at altering the personality features. Recently, however, the CBT literature has displayed an increased focus on identifying alternative higher-order, dimensional mechanisms that may underscore the development and maintenance of broad classes of psychopathology (e.g., aversive reactivity to emotions, reward sensitivity, and performance expectancies). There is ample evidence linking these processes to DSM disorder severity; however, they may also represent a functional link between the personality domains and the disorder symptoms organized beneath them. The functional mechanisms through which an individual's personality confers risk for psychopathology may be naturally amenable to cognitive behavioral elements, and targeting these processes in treatment has the potential to address both disorder symptoms and underlying personality vulnerabilities. Thus, the identification of intermediate functional mechanisms may help bridge the gap between personality science and clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen A Semcho
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Southward MW, Sauer-Zavala S. Experimental Manipulations to Test Theory-Driven Mechanisms of Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:603009. [PMID: 33391056 PMCID: PMC7773689 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.603009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of randomized-controlled trials demonstrating the efficacy of cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), the mechanisms by which CBT achieves its effects remain unclear. Here, we describe how one adaptive intervention, the sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART), can be used to randomize patients at multiple decision points in treatment to draw stronger causal claims about mechanisms unfolding in the course of CBT. We illustrate this design using preliminary data and case examples from an ongoing SMART in which we are testing the role of aversive reactions to negative emotions as a hypothesized mechanism of change in the Unified Protocol. Finally, we address common concerns with SMARTs and highlight how mechanistic research serves to personalize and optimize the delivery of CBT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W Southward
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|