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Competitive Memory Training (COMET) for OCD: a self-treatment approach to obsessions
Brooke C Schneider1, Charlotte E Wittekind, Alina Talhof
1a Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy , University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg , Germany.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
|November 26, 2014
Summary
Competitive Memory Training (COMET) was tested as a self-help intervention for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The study found it was not feasible or effective, though self-esteem improved in a subset of participants.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is linked to maladaptive cognitive-emotional networks.
- Competitive Memory Training (COMET) is a cognitive intervention targeting these networks.
- COMET has not been previously evaluated as a self-help intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the preliminary feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of COMET for OCD when delivered as a self-help intervention.
- To determine if self-help COMET can reduce OCD symptoms, depression, and improve self-esteem.
- To explore adherence rates to the self-help COMET program.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 65 participants diagnosed with OCD.
- Participants were recruited from online self-help forums.
- They were randomized to either self-help COMET or a wait-list control group, with assessments at baseline and 4 weeks.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in OCD symptoms or depression between the COMET and control groups.
- Participants who completed the entire manual showed higher self-esteem post-intervention.
- Low adherence was observed, with only 26.4% reading the full manual and 56.5% exercising regularly.
Conclusions:
- Self-help COMET, as implemented, was not found to be feasible or effective for reducing OCD symptoms or depression.
- While self-esteem may improve in engaged users, overall adherence challenges limit its potential as a self-help intervention.
- Further research is needed to modify the implementation of COMET for potentially better outcomes in OCD self-management.
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