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Shyness 2: treating social phobia online: replication and extension
Nickolai Titov1, Gavin Andrews, Genevieve Schwencke
1School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. nickt@unsw.edu.au
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|July 10, 2008
Summary
This study replicated a successful internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy program for social phobia, showing it is reliable and effective. The online treatment for social phobia (SP) was well-accepted and compared favorably to in-person therapy.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Social phobia (SP) is a prevalent anxiety disorder.
- Internet-based interventions show promise for SP treatment.
- Previous research (Titov et al., 2008) demonstrated efficacy of an online program.
Purpose of the Study:
- To replicate the findings of an internet- and email-based treatment program for social phobia.
- To compare the results with benchmark data from face-to-face treatments.
- To assess the reliability and acceptability of the online intervention.
Main Methods:
- 88 individuals with social phobia were randomized to clinician-assisted computerized CBT or a waitlist control.
- The treatment involved 6 online lessons, homework, email contact, and a discussion forum.
- Intention-to-treat analysis was used.
Main Results:
- 80% of the treatment group completed all lessons.
- Significant pre- to post-treatment improvements in social phobia symptoms and disability were observed in the treatment group compared to the waitlist.
- Large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 1.18-1.20) were reported.
- The program was highly acceptable to participants.
Conclusions:
- The internet-based guided self-help program for social phobia is reliable and effective.
- Outcomes favorably compare to high-quality face-to-face treatment programs.
- This approach offers a valuable option for individuals with social phobia.
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