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Related Experiment Videos

Does attention bias modification induce structural brain changes? A commentary on Abend et al. (2019).

Sam Parsons1

  • 1Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.

Biological Psychology
|February 23, 2020
PubMed
Summary

This commentary questions the validity of attention bias modification training (ABM) research. It highlights methodological concerns, including low statistical power and inconsistent results, that undermine the study's conclusions on brain structure changes.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Research Methodology

Background:

  • Attention bias modification training (ABM) is proposed to alter brain structure.
  • A recent study by Abend et al. (2019) reported such changes.
  • The strength of scientific conclusions should align with the evidence provided.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically evaluate the methodological rigor of Abend et al. (2019).
  • To identify potential weaknesses in the study's design and analysis.
  • To assess the reliability of the reported brain structure changes induced by ABM training.

Main Methods:

  • Commentary and critical analysis of a published study.
  • Review of study highlights, focusing on statistical reporting and internal consistency.
Keywords:
ABMAttention bias modificationCommentaryStatcheckStatistical powerStructural brain changes

Related Experiment Videos

  • Application of statistical checking tools (statcheck) to verify reported findings.

    • Main Results:

    • The study by Abend et al. (2019) exhibits low statistical power.
    • Key conclusions rely heavily on a single, potentially inconsistent, group x time interaction.
    • Absence of discussion regarding negative or null ABM training results was noted.

    Conclusions:

    • The conclusions drawn by Abend et al. (2019) may not be robustly supported by the evidence.
    • The reported brain structure changes require further verification due to methodological concerns.
    • The study's findings necessitate re-examination and potential correction.