Modifying interpretation bias in adolescents with clinical levels of social phobia: An explorative case design series using Cognitive Bias Modification.

Curtis, Amie (2013) Modifying interpretation bias in adolescents with clinical levels of social phobia: An explorative case design series using Cognitive Bias Modification. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

Cognitive Bias Modification for interpretation bias (CBM-I) is a procedure which has
been found to successfully modify interpretation bias and anxiety symptoms. To date,
very few studies have investigated the efficacy of CBM-I with adolescents. This research
investigated the application of a multi-session CBM-I programme in a clinical adolescent
population. Eight adolescents (14 to 17 years old) with clinical levels of social phobia
symptoms completed a seven session CBM-I programme at home via the internet. The
programme trained adolescents to interpret ambiguous situations in a positive manner.
Imagery of oneself in the scenarios was also encouraged in an attempt to enhance the
potential effects. Participants completed a battery of self-report measures to identify
changes in interpretation biases and symptomology. Four participants made
improvements on social phobia symptoms after the CBM-I training, which were
maintained at follow-up. Six participants experienced reduced negative interpretation
biases post-CBM-I, with three participants moving from a negative interpretation bias
pre-CBM-I, to a positive interpretation bias post-CBM-I. Participants and their parents
completed questionnaires to investigate their opinions of the CBM-I procedure.
Interestingly, participants who reported enjoying the task were more likely to have a
reduction in symptomology. The participants also reported that the scenarios would
benefit from being tailored to their specific interests and presentations. Parents noted that
the procedure was practical and easy to use, but felt that the training did not significantly
impact upon their child’s presentation. Overall, the results indicate the potential value of
CBM-I in modifying negative interpretative biases and symptomology in adolescents
with social phobia. However, the findings were not absolute, with variability amongst
participants making it difficult to draw strong conclusions. Further research is therefore
needed to confirm and add weight to the current findings.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	Users 7377 not found.
Date Deposited:	05 Mar 2014 12:37
Last Modified:	05 Mar 2014 12:37
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/47927
DOI:

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