Internet cognitive behavioural treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder: A randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Digital Health

Background:

• Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy (iCBT) is recognized for treating anxiety and depression.
• Limited research exists on iCBT efficacy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of technician-administered iCBT compared to treatment as usual (TAU) for OCD.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 67 OCD patients.
• Comparison of technician-administered iCBT (n=32) versus TAU (n=35).
• Primary outcomes measured using the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (DOCS) and Obsessional Beliefs Questionnaire (OBQ-20) pre- and post-treatment.

Main Results:

• iCBT significantly reduced obsessive-compulsive beliefs, OCD symptoms, distress, and depression compared to TAU (effect size >.78).
• High adherence (75%) was observed in the iCBT group.
• Symptom improvements were maintained at 3-month follow-up, with 54% of completers no longer meeting OCD diagnostic criteria.

Conclusions:

• Technician-administered iCBT is an efficacious treatment for OCD, comparable to other established methods.
• iCBT demonstrates sustained efficacy and is a viable treatment option for OCD.
• Further research should explore iCBT effectiveness in routine clinical practice.