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Reducing analogue trauma symptoms by computerized reappraisal training - considering a cognitive prophylaxis?
Marcella L Woud1, Peggy Postma, Emily A Holmes
1Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Montessorilaan 3, Room A07.03, 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands. M.Woud@psych.ru.nl
Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry
|March 5, 2013
Summary
Cognitive reappraisal training before a stressful event can reduce distress from intrusive memories, potentially serving as a cognitive prophylaxis against trauma symptoms. This study investigated the benefits of reappraisal training administered prior to a stressor.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Background:
- Intrusive memories are a key symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Dysfunctional appraisal of these symptoms can worsen PTSD.
- Previous research suggests reappraisal training after a stressor reduces symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if reappraisal training administered before a stressful event is beneficial.
- To determine if cognitive bias modification for appraisal (CBM-App) training can prevent trauma-related symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Participants underwent positive or negative CBM-App training using scripted vignettes.
- Participants were then exposed to a traumatic film.
- Outcomes measured included post-training appraisals, changes in the Post Traumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI), and intrusive symptom diaries.
Main Results:
- CBM-App training successfully induced congruent appraisal styles.
- Positive reappraisal training led to less distress from intrusive memories compared to negative training.
- The induced appraisal bias had a partial effect on PTCI scores.
Conclusions:
- CBM-App training shows benefits when applied before a stressful event.
- This training may act as a cognitive prophylaxis against trauma symptoms.
- Limitations include participant-referenced PTCI assessments and lack of a control group.
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