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Published on: November 21, 2025
Optimizing expectations in an internet- and mobile-based intervention for depression: study protocol for a randomized
Carmen Schaeuffele1, Manuel Heinrich2, Stephanie Haering2,3
1Department of Education and Psychology, Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Habelschwerdter Allee 45, Berlin, 14195, Germany. carmen.schaeuffele@fu-berlin.de.
Background:
Expectations are considered an important mechanism of change in psychotherapeutic interventions, including internet- and mobile-based interventions (IMI). This study aims to investigate whether two expectation-focused microinterventions can enhance the effects of an IMI for participants with elevated depression.
Methods:
All participants will receive an established IMI consisting of six evidence-based cognitive behavioral modules. In this 2×3 factorial design, 720 adult participants will be randomized to receive (1) either the IMI in standard or personalized framing (first randomization factor), in combination with (2) an expectation-focused telephone call mid-treatment, a supportive phone call or no phone call (second randomization factor). The primary outcome is depression at mid- and post-treatment (BDI-II). Secondary measures include expectations, adherence, state and trait anxiety and depression, disability, negative effects, and satisfaction with treatment.
Discussion:
This study will increase knowledge about applying micro-interventions to modify expectations and improve the effects of IMI in the treatment of depressive symptoms. Scalable IMI has the potential to improve healthcare but ways to further improve their effects and adherence need to be explored.
Trial Registration:
The trial was prospectively registered under DRKS00032982. Registered on July 11, 2023.
