Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2025
08:05
A Prediction Error-driven Retrieval Procedure for Destabilizing and Rewriting Maladaptive Reward Memories in Hazardous Drinkers
Published on: January 5, 2018
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Cognitive bias modification as a web-based intervention for problem drinkers: A randomized controlled trial with a
Denise S van Deursen1, Lynn Mobach2, Elske Salemink3
1Department of Clinical Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, the Netherlands.
Behaviour Research and Therapy
|March 25, 2025
Summary
Web-based Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) did not reduce alcohol use in problem drinkers. This e-health intervention showed no added benefit over motivational interventions, possibly due to ineffective bias modification.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) has shown promise in reducing cognitive biases linked to problem drinking.
- The efficacy of multiple, combined CBM interventions delivered via e-health remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the individual and combined effects of web-based attention bias, selective inhibition, and approach bias modification in problem drinkers.
- To assess the impact of these CBM interventions on cognitive biases and alcohol use.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 427 self-identified problem drinkers.
- Participants received one of eight CBM conditions, including a personalized feedback intervention and 12 CBM sessions over six weeks.
- Cognitive biases and alcohol use were assessed at pre-test, post-test, and at three and six months follow-up.
Main Results:
- Alcohol use decreased over time across all conditions, with no significant differences between CBM groups.
- There was limited evidence that CBM interventions effectively altered cognitive biases, with some measures exhibiting inadequate reliability.
- Web-based CBM did not demonstrate additional benefits beyond a brief motivational intervention for reducing alcohol consumption.
Conclusions:
- Web-based Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) does not enhance alcohol use reduction when combined with motivational interventions in problem drinkers.
- The lack of effectiveness may stem from unsuccessful bias modification, necessitating further research.
- Future studies should explore moderators of CBM effectiveness and novel inference-based CBM approaches.
Keywords:
Approach bias modificationAttentional bias modificationCognitive bias modificationGo/no-go trainingProblematic alcohol useMore Related Videos
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