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Snippe L, Boffo M, Galvin H, Willemen R, Pronk T, Dom G, Wiers RW. How We Lost 90% of Participants on a Bad Bet: Results from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial on Cognitive Bias Modification in Problem Gamblers. J Gambl Stud 2024; 40:521-554. [PMID: 38006537 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10263-6] [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: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Whilst opportunities to participate in gambling have increased, access to support for problem gamblers is lacking behind. This lack of balance calls for improved and accessible intervention methods. The present double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) explored the effectiveness of two interventions targeting automatic cognitive processes, known as Attentional Bias Modification (AtBM) and Approach Bias Modification (ApBM). It was hypothesized these interventions would reduce gambling behavior and reduce or reverse targeted biases. Participants (N = 331) were community-recruited Flemish (35%) and Dutch (65%) adult problem gamblers motivated to reduce or stop their gambling who received either six sessions of active training (AtBM or ApBM) or of the corresponding sham-training (sham-AtBM or sham-ApBM). Due to high attrition rates (90.1% up to the intervention phase) the study was terminated before completion, since it would greatly limit the validity of any results. A post hoc qualitative study was performed on a subset of participants to gain insight into contributing factors for the high attrition rate. Issues negatively impacting participants' motivation to complete the program were identified, as well as elements of the program that received approval. The results from this study provide a first insight into the potential of the use of online cognitive bias modification (CBM) interventions in problem gambling (PG). Suggestions and directions for future studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leroy Snippe
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Marilisa Boffo
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies (DPECS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harriet Galvin
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies (DPECS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Thomas Pronk
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Reinout W Wiers
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT) Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Tibboel H, Van Bockstaele B, Spruyt A, Franken I. Implicit beliefs and automatic associations in smoking. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2024; 83:101925. [PMID: 38029484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2023.101925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Dual process models of addiction suggest that controlled, goal-directed processes prevent drug-use, whereas impulsive, stimulus-driven processes promote drug-use. The most frequently used measure of automatic smoking-related processes, the implicit association test (IAT), has yielded mixed results. We examine the validity of two alternative implicit measures: 1) the affect misattribution procedure (AMP), a measure of automatic evaluations, and 2) the relational responding task (RRT), a measure of implicit beliefs. METHODS Smokers and non-smokers performed smoking-related versions of the AMP and the RRT and filled in questionnaires for smoking dependence. Smokers participated in two sessions: once after they just smoked, and once after being deprived for 10 h. Smokers also kept a smoking diary for a week after the second session. RESULTS We found significant differences between smokers and non-smokers on the RRT, t (86) = 2.86, p = .007, d = 0.61, and on the AMP, F (1, 85) = 6.22, p = .015, pƞ2 = 0.07. Neither the AMP nor the RRT were affected by the deprivation manipulation. Smoking dependence predicted smoking behavior in the following week; the AMP and RRT did not explain additional variance. LIMITATIONS Possibly, our manipulation was not strong enough to affect the motivational state of participants in a way that it changed their implicit cognitions. Future research should examine the sensitivity of implicit measures to (motivational) context. CONCLUSIONS We found limited evidence for the validity of the smoking-AMP and the smoking-RRT, highlighting the need for a critical view on implicit measures.
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Nebe S, Kretzschmar A, Brandt MC, Tobler PN. Characterizing Human Habits in the Lab. COLLABRA. PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 10:92949. [PMID: 38463460 PMCID: PMC7615722 DOI: 10.1525/collabra.92949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Habits pose a fundamental puzzle for those aiming to understand human behavior. They pervade our everyday lives and dominate some forms of psychopathology but are extremely hard to elicit in the lab. In this Registered Report, we developed novel experimental paradigms grounded in computational models, which suggest that habit strength should be proportional to the frequency of behavior and, in contrast to previous research, independent of value. Specifically, we manipulated how often participants performed responses in two tasks varying action repetition without, or separately from, variations in value. Moreover, we asked how this frequency-based habitization related to value-based operationalizations of habit and self-reported propensities for habitual behavior in real life. We find that choice frequency during training increases habit strength at test and that this form of habit shows little relation to value-based operationalizations of habit. Our findings empirically ground a novel perspective on the constituents of habits and suggest that habits may arise in the absence of external reinforcement. We further find no evidence for an overlap between different experimental approaches to measuring habits and no associations with self-reported real-life habits. Thus, our findings call for a rigorous reassessment of our understanding and measurement of human habitual behavior in the lab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Nebe
- Zurich Center for Neuroeconomics, Department of Economics, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - André Kretzschmar
- Individual Differences and Assessment, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maike C. Brandt
- Zurich Center for Neuroeconomics, Department of Economics, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philippe N. Tobler
- Zurich Center for Neuroeconomics, Department of Economics, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Laurens MC, Postel MG, Brusse-Keizer M, Pieterse ME, Ben Allouch S, Bohlmeijer ET, Salemink E. Augmenting outpatient alcohol treatment as usual with online approach bias modification training: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Addict Behav 2023; 142:107630. [PMID: 36881944 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107630] [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: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Previous research shows that automatic tendency to approach alcohol plays a causal role in problematic alcohol use and can be retrained by Approach Bias Modification (ApBM). ApBM has been shown to be effective for patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in inpatient treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of adding an online ApBM to treatment as usual (TAU) in an outpatient setting compared to receiving TAU with an online placebo training. 139 AUD patients receiving face-to-face or online treatment as usual (TAU) participated in the study. The patients were randomized to an active or placebo version of 8 sessions of online ApBM over a 5-week period. The weekly consumed standard units of alcohol (primary outcome) was measured at pre-and post-training, 3 and 6 months follow-up. Approach tendency was measured pre-and-post ApBM training. No additional effect of ApBM was found on alcohol intake, nor other outcomes such as craving, depression, anxiety, or stress. A significant reduction of the alcohol approach bias was found. This research showed that approach bias retraining in AUD patients in an outpatient treatment setting reduces the tendency to approach alcohol, but this training effect does not translate into a significant difference in alcohol reduction between groups. Explanations for the lack of effects of ApBM on alcohol consumption are treatment goal and severity of AUD. Future ApBM research should target outpatients with an abstinence goal and offer alternative, more user-friendly modes of delivering ApBM training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa C Laurens
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands; Research Group Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, Netherlands.
| | - Marloes G Postel
- Research Group Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Brusse-Keizer
- Medical School Twente, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, Netherlands; Health Technology and Services Research, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Marcel E Pieterse
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Somaya Ben Allouch
- Informatics Institute, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands; Research Group Digital Life, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ernst T Bohlmeijer
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Elske Salemink
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Fridland E, Wiers CE, Rinck M, Becker ES, Gladwin TE. An experimental test of integrating imagery with approach bias modification for alcohol: A cautionary tale. Br J Health Psychol 2022; 28:383-396. [PMID: 36336992 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In terms of dual process models, behaviour can be conceived of as the outcome of an interplay between reflective, top-down and impulsive, bottom-up processes. Behaviour change interventions may benefit from targeting both types of processes in a coherent way. One approach to this, in the context of reducing hazardous drinking, is to combine imagery involving real-life situations involving alcohol with the simple actions involved in Approach Bias Modification (ApBM), a form of Cognitive Bias Modification. DESIGN We developed and tested a version of this Imagery-enhanced Approach Bias Modification (IApBM) in an experimental design, with two independent factors: imagery versus control and ApBM versus control training components (N = 139). METHODS An effect of integrating the training factors was hypothesized on the alcohol-approach bias of an alcohol Approach-Avoidance Task. Further exploratory analyses were performed for the bias on alcohol-related Single Attribute Implicit Association Tests and on alcohol-related questionnaires. Finally, the psychometric properties of an imagery interference effect during training were explored. RESULTS Results showed no benefit of the training and in fact suggested a negative interaction in which combining the training components appeared to block reductions in craving effected by each in isolation. The reliability of the imagery-related interference effect was high and the effect was correlated with alcohol-related scales. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, it appears that interference between training components decreases their individual effects when combining imagery and ApBM in the current way. The imagery-related interference effects that could be measured during training conditions may be useful as an implicit measure of automatic processes underlying hazardous drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Corinde E. Wiers
- Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| | - Mike Rinck
- Behavioural Science Institute Radboud University Nijmegen Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Eni S. Becker
- Behavioural Science Institute Radboud University Nijmegen Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Thomas E. Gladwin
- Behavioural Science Institute Radboud University Nijmegen Nijmegen The Netherlands
- Institute of Lifecourse Development University of Greenwich London UK
- Department of Psychology and Counselling University of Chichester Chichester UK
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Seesink HJ, Schaap-Jonker H, Ostafin B, Lokman JC, Wiers RW. Protocol for an RCT on cognitive bias modification for alcohol use disorders in a religion-based rehabilitation program. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060820. [PMID: 36130749 PMCID: PMC9494557 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol-related cues trigger relapse in patients with alcohol use disorders (AUDs). These cues may automatically activate motivational approach tendencies. Through computerised cognitive bias modification (CBM), the tendencies of patients with AUD to approach alcohol can be reduced. The present protocol describes a training intervention with approach bias modification (ApBM) incorporating religion-related stimuli as an alternative to alcohol to improve the effectiveness of CBM in a religion-based rehabilitation centre. AUD is often related to patients' religious attitudes in this treatment context. The religion-adapted ApBM, therefore, combines training in avoidance of alcohol-related motivational cues and an approach to religion-based motivational cues. This combination's effectiveness will be compared with a standard ApBM and to a sham ApBM. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Using a double-blind multiarm parallel randomised controlled trial procedure (ratio 1:1:1), 120 patients with AUD will be randomised into 1 of 3 conditions (religion-adapted ApBM, standard ApBM or sham ApBM) with personalised stimuli. The interventions are delivered over 4 consecutive days during an inpatient detoxification programme in addition to treatment as usual. Assessments occur before the start of the training and after the fourth training session, with follow-up assessments after 1 and 4 months. A multivariate analysis of variance will be used with the primary outcomes, the percentage of days abstinent and meaning in life 4-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include differences in reported training satisfaction and symptoms of AUD. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been reviewed and approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee Academic Medical Center Amsterdam (Reference number: 2020_251). Further, study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NL75499.018.20.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henk-Jan Seesink
- Department of Research, De Hoop ggz, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Research and Innovation in Christian Mental Health Care, Eleos/De Hoop, Hoevelaken, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke Schaap-Jonker
- Centre for Research and Innovation in Christian Mental Health Care, Eleos/De Hoop, Hoevelaken, The Netherlands
- Department of Religion and Theology, Faculteit der Geesteswetenschappen, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Brian Ostafin
- Experimental and Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychology, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen Faculteit Gedrags en Maatschappijwetenschappen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - John C Lokman
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC - University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Reinout W Wiers
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Loganathan K, Ho ETW. Value, drug addiction and the brain. Addict Behav 2021; 116:106816. [PMID: 33453587 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the years, various models have been proposed to explain the psychology and biology of drug addiction, built primarily around the habit and compulsion models. Recent research indicates drug addiction may be goal-directed, motivated by excessive valuation of drugs. Drug consumption may initially occur for the sake of pleasure but may transition to a means of escaping withdrawal, stress and negative emotions. In this hypothetical paper, we propose a value-based neurobiological model for drug addiction. We posit that during dependency, the value-based decision-making system in the brain is not inactive but has instead prioritized drugs as the reward of choice. In support of this model, we consider the role of valuation in choice, its influence on pleasure and punishment, and how valuation is contrasted in impulsive and compulsive behaviours. We then discuss the neurobiology of value, beginning with the dopaminergic system and its relationship with incentive salience before moving to brain-wide networks involved in valuation, control and prospection. These value-based neurobiological components are then integrated into the cycle of addiction as we consider the development of drug dependency from a valuation perspective. We conclude with a discussion of cognitive interventions utilizing value-based decision-making, highlighting not just advances in recalibrating the valuation system to focus on non-drug rewards, but also areas for improvement in refining this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavinash Loganathan
- Centre for Intelligent Signal & Imaging, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Eric Tatt Wei Ho
- Centre for Intelligent Signal & Imaging, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Perak, Malaysia; Dept of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Perak, Malaysia
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Wölfling K, Duven E, Wejbera M, Beutel ME, Müller KW. Discounting delayed monetary rewards and decision making in behavioral addictions - A comparison between patients with gambling disorder and internet gaming disorder. Addict Behav 2020; 108:106446. [PMID: 32408114 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Behavior addictions, such as Gambling Disorder and Internet Gaming Disorder, have been demonstrated to have severe negative impact. Heightened impulsivity, deficits in decision making, and cognitive biases in the preference of immediate rewards have been shown to be crucial aspects in addictive disorders. While for Gambling Disorder (GD), dysfunctional decision making has been documented before, data for Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) are still underrepresented. In order to allow for a direct comparison of both disorders, we assessed different measures of impulsivity (trait, impulsive choice, and decision making) in a clinical sample. N = 31 patients meeting criteria for GD and n = 30 patients with IGD were recruited from an outpatient clinic and compared regarding their performance in a Delay Discounting Task (DDT), the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), and self-report data on impulsivity (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale). Healthy controls (n = 27) were included as a reference group. In the DDT, the area under the curve was associated with the severity of GD only. No correlations were found for the impulsivity subscales and the area under the curve which, however, was similar between the two patient groups in contrast to controls. The GD-group performed poorer then the other groups in the IGT while IGD-patients performed poorer only at the beginning of the experiment. Although only few significant differences occurred, similarities between GD and IGD regarding the DDT point towards a tendency on discounting rewards faster. Likewise, both patient groups were performing worse in the IGT than healthy controls which indicates deficiencies in decision making. Interestingly, the IGD-group was able to shift towards more advantageous decision making, which might have important implications for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wölfling
- Outpatient Clinic for Behavioural Addiction, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - E Duven
- Praxengemeinschaft Gonsenheim, Kapellenstraße 7, 55124 Mainz, Germany
| | - M Wejbera
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - M E Beutel
- Outpatient Clinic for Behavioural Addiction, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - K W Müller
- Outpatient Clinic for Behavioural Addiction, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a burdening chronic condition that is characterized by high relapse rates despite severe negative consequences. There has been a recent emergence of interest in (neuro)therapeutic intervention strategies that largely involve the detrimental change in mechanisms linked to addiction disorders. Most prominently, the latter include habitual decision-making, cue-induced behavioral tendencies, as well as the amplifying effects of stressful events on drinking behavior. This article discusses these learning mechanisms and modification thereof as possible targets of (neuro)therapeutic interventions for AUD.
Recent Findings
Psychological therapies that target dysregulated neurocognitive processes underlying addictive behavior may hold promise as effective treatments for AUD.
Summary
Despite the progression in psychological and neuroscience research in the field of AUD, many behavioral interventions fail to systematically integrate and apply such findings into treatment development. Future research should focus on the targeted modification of the aforementioned processes.
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Laurens MC, Pieterse ME, Brusse-Keizer M, Salemink E, Ben Allouch S, Bohlmeijer ET, Postel MG. Alcohol Avoidance Training as a Mobile App for Problem Drinkers: Longitudinal Feasibility Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e16217. [PMID: 32286235 PMCID: PMC7189254 DOI: 10.2196/16217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol use is associated with an automatic tendency to approach alcohol, and the retraining of this tendency (cognitive bias modification [CBM]) shows therapeutic promise in clinical settings. To improve access to training and to enhance participant engagement, a mobile version of alcohol avoidance training was developed. Objective The aims of this pilot study were to assess (1) adherence to a mobile health (mHealth) app; (2) changes in weekly alcohol use from before to after training; and (3) user experience with regard to the mHealth app. Methods A self-selected nonclinical sample of 1082 participants, who were experiencing problems associated with alcohol, signed up to use the alcohol avoidance training app Breindebaas for 3 weeks with at least two training sessions per week. In each training session, 100 pictures (50 of alcoholic beverages and 50 of nonalcoholic beverages) were presented consecutively in a random order at the center of a touchscreen. Alcoholic beverages were swiped upward (away from the body), whereas nonalcoholic beverages were swiped downward (toward the body). During approach responses, the picture size increased to mimic an approach movement, and conversely, during avoidance responses, the picture size decreased to mimic avoidance. At baseline, we assessed sociodemographic characteristics, alcohol consumption, alcohol-related problems, use of other substances, self-efficacy, and craving. After 3 weeks, 37.89% (410/1082) of the participants (posttest responders) completed an online questionnaire evaluating adherence, alcohol consumption, and user satisfaction. Three months later, 19.03% (206/1082) of the participants (follow-up responders) filled in a follow-up questionnaire examining adherence and alcohol consumption. Results The 410 posttest responders were older, were more commonly female, and had a higher education as compared with posttest dropouts. Among those who completed the study, 79.0% (324/410) were considered adherent as they completed four or more sessions, whereas 58.0% (238/410) performed the advised six or more training sessions. The study identified a significant reduction in alcohol consumption of 7.8 units per week after 3 weeks (95% CI 6.2-9.4, P<.001; n=410) and another reduction of 6.2 units at 3 months for follow-up responders (95% CI 3.7-8.7, P<.001; n=206). Posttest responders provided positive feedback regarding the fast-working, simple, and user-friendly design of the app. Almost half of the posttest responders reported gaining more control over their alcohol use. The repetitious and nonpersonalized nature of the intervention was suggested as a point for improvement. Conclusions This is one of the first studies to employ alcohol avoidance training in a mobile app for problem drinkers. Preliminary findings suggest that a mobile CBM app fulfils a need for problem drinkers and may contribute to a reduction in alcohol use. Replicating these findings in a controlled study is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa C Laurens
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.,Research Group Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Marcel E Pieterse
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | | | - Elske Salemink
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Somaya Ben Allouch
- Research Group Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Enschede, Netherlands.,Digital Life, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ernst T Bohlmeijer
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Marloes G Postel
- Centre for eHealth and Well-being Research, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands.,Tactus Addiction Treatment, Enschede, Netherlands
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Zerhouni O, Houben K, El Methni J, Rutte N, Werkman E, Wiers RW. I didn’t feel like drinking, but I guess why: Evaluative conditioning changes on explicit attitudes toward alcohol and healthy foods depends on contingency awareness. LEARNING AND MOTIVATION 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lmot.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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12
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Lechner WV, Sidhu NK, Kittaneh AA, Anand A. Interventions with potential to target executive function deficits in addiction: current state of the literature. Curr Opin Psychol 2019; 30:24-28. [PMID: 30797130 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The inability to stop or reduce substance use despite motivation to do so is thought to result, in part, from self-control failure and can be understood within the framework of dual process models of addiction. These models view addictive behavior as the relative balance between automatic impulses and executive decision processes. This review focuses on treatments that aim to improve executive decision processes which often become dysregulated and ineffective in individuals with substance use disorders. It is posited that improving these executive function deficits should restore control over automatic impulses and drug seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- William V Lechner
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, 144 Kent Hall, P.O. Box 5190, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA
| | - Natasha K Sidhu
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, 144 Kent Hall, P.O. Box 5190, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA
| | - Ahmad A Kittaneh
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, 144 Kent Hall, P.O. Box 5190, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA
| | - Amit Anand
- Center for Behavioral Health, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Batschelet HM, Stein M, Tschuemperlin RM, Soravia LM, Moggi F. Alcohol-Specific Computerized Interventions to Alter Cognitive Biases: A Systematic Review of Effects on Experimental Tasks, Drinking Behavior, and Neuronal Activation. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:871. [PMID: 31998146 PMCID: PMC6970199 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In patients with alcohol use disorder, novel interventions to increase abstinence have attracted growing attention. Interventions aimed at modifying cognitive biases linked to alcohol use [i.e. cognitive bias modification (CBM)] may serve as an add-on to standard therapy. This systematic review thoroughly aggregates existing data on the effects of three alcohol-specific computerized interventions, namely attentional bias modification (AtBM), approach bias modification (ApBM), and inhibition training (IT). In doing so, each CBM's effects on experimental tasks assessing the relevant biases, drinking behavior, and neurophysiology are summarized. Also, the influence of drinking behavior severity and motivation to change drinking behavior are discussed. Methods: A literature search was conducted in four databases for original research articles published between 2000 and May 2019. Studies were eligible if investigating the effects of alcohol-specific computerized interventions (AtBM, ApBM, IT) on drinking behavior, bias change, and/or neurophysiology. Forty eligible articles were classified as being either a non-clinical experimental lab study (ELS) or clinical randomized-controlled trial (RCT) and summarized. Results: While AtBM seems to influence attentional bias, its effects on drinking behavior are inconsistent. As for ApBM, the best effects on drinking behavior are obtained in clinical samples. Effects of ApBM on approach bias are mixed. Interestingly, those clinical RCTs which investigated ApBM effects on bias change as well as on drinking outcome, reported consistent effects in both measures (i.e. either effects on bias and drinking or no effects). Studies on IT are limited to non-clinical samples and show inconsistent effects on drinking behavior. Considering ITs effects on implicit semantic associations, most studies do not support the conceptualization of IT as a form of memory bias modification, while reports on IT's effects on inhibitory control are still incomplete. Conclusions about the overall influence of drinking behavior severity are hampered by the non-uniform use of sample descriptions. Conclusions: In clinical samples, ApBM has shown more consistent beneficial effects, while evidence on AtBM is more inconsistent, and data on IT still lacks important information. Conclusions about the influence of drinking behavior severity would be facilitated by a uniform use of clearly defined sample descriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallie M Batschelet
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Translational Research Center, Division of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Maria Stein
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Translational Research Center, Division of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Raphaela M Tschuemperlin
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Translational Research Center, Division of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Clinic Suedhang, Center for Treatment of Addictive Disorders, Kirchlindach, Switzerland
| | - Leila M Soravia
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Translational Research Center, Division of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Clinic Suedhang, Center for Treatment of Addictive Disorders, Kirchlindach, Switzerland
| | - Franz Moggi
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Translational Research Center, Division of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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14
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Neuropsychological Interventions for Decision-Making in Addiction: a Systematic Review. Neuropsychol Rev 2018; 29:79-92. [DOI: 10.1007/s11065-018-9384-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Krank M, Robinson J. Automatic Cognitive Processes and Youth Substance Use: Risks and Prevention. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-017-0168-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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16
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Stock AK. Barking up the Wrong Tree: Why and How We May Need to Revise Alcohol Addiction Therapy. Front Psychol 2017; 8:884. [PMID: 28611718 PMCID: PMC5447061 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the main characteristics of alcohol abuse and addiction is the loss of control over alcohol intake and the continuation of drinking in the face of negative consequences. Mounting evidence strongly suggests that an alcohol-induced imbalance between goal-directed and habitual behavior may be one of the main driving factors of this key feature of addiction and furthermore play a key role in staying abstinent. Current therapies often focus only on deficient inhibitory control (i.e., goal-directed behavior), but largely neglect the potential of the well-functioning habit formation found in patients. Yet, focusing on intact habitual/automatic mechanisms in addition to or maybe even instead of deficient cognitive control might equip us with a more effective tool to battle the current alcohol abuse and addiction epidemic, especially with respect to more severely impacted patients who likely suffer from permanent alcohol-induced brain damage. Against this background, I would like to advocate the application and scientific evaluation of habit reversal therapy (HRT) for alcohol abuse and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kathrin Stock
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität DresdenDresden, Germany
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17
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Gladwin TE. Negative effects of an alternating-bias training aimed at attentional flexibility: a single session study. Health Psychol Behav Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2016.1266634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E. Gladwin
- Research Center – Military Mental Health, Ministry of Defense, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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