Reducing Intrusive Memories of Childhood Trauma Using a Visuospatial Intervention: Case Study in Iceland

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Background:

• Existing trauma treatments face barriers, necessitating novel interventions.
• Case studies are crucial for examining individual responses to new treatments.
• This study explores a novel intervention targeting memory reconsolidation for intrusive trauma memories.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a brief cognitive intervention for reducing trauma-related intrusive memories in Iceland.
• To assess the long-term efficacy of the intervention up to 3 months post-treatment.
• To investigate the intervention's impact on posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and functioning.

Main Methods:

• A single case study design was employed in Iceland.
• The intervention involved a brief memory reminder followed by Tetris gameplay targeting intrusive memories.
• Intrusive memories were monitored daily, with an ABAB design across six sessions and follow-ups.

Main Results:

• A 52% reduction in weekly intrusive memories was observed during the intervention phase.
• Intrusive memories decreased by 76% at 1-month and 92% at 3-month follow-up.
• Improvements were noted in posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety symptoms, sleep, concentration, stress, and functioning.

Conclusions:

• The guided brief cognitive intervention effectively reduced intrusive memories long-term.
• The intervention was well-tolerated, avoiding detailed trauma recall.
• Future research should include more cases and explore remote delivery options.