Working memory updating training reduces state repetitive negative thinking: Proof-of-concept for a novel cognitive...

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is a significant risk factor for depression and anxiety, particularly during adolescence.
• Working memory updating impairments are hypothesized to contribute to RNT, potentially involving difficulties with negative information.
• Targeting RNT during adolescence may be crucial for preventing mental health disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of computerised adaptive working memory updating training in reducing RNT.
• To compare the effects of training with neutral versus negative stimuli on RNT.
• To determine if adaptive training improves working memory updating for negative material.

Main Methods:

• 124 healthy adolescents were randomized into three groups for 20 training sessions.
• Intervention groups received adaptive working memory updating training with either neutral or negative stimuli.
• A control group underwent non-adaptive working memory updating training.

Main Results:

• Adaptive working memory updating training with neutral stimuli significantly improved the updating of negative material on an unpractised task.
• This neutral-stimuli training also led to significant reductions in susceptibility to state RNT.
• Training with negative stimuli did not yield the same improvements in working memory updating or RNT reduction.

Conclusions:

• Computerised adaptive working memory updating training, particularly with neutral stimuli, offers a potential intervention for reducing RNT.
• This training demonstrates proof-of-concept for mitigating susceptibility to state RNT episodes.
• Findings suggest a targeted approach to cognitive training may help prevent common mental health problems.