When less could be more: Investigating the effects of a brief internet-based imagery cognitive bias modification intervention in depression

Abstract

Depression is a highly prevalent condition worldwide, yet multiple barriers to treatments means that the development of low intensive and easily accessible psychological interventions is crucially needed. The current study sought to investigate the efficacy of a brief, self-administered imagery cognitive bias modification (imagery CBM) procedure delivered online to a sample of 101 individuals with depressive symptoms. Compared to a closely matched control condition or a waitlist condition, imagery CBM led to greater improvements in depressive symptoms (d = 0.86, 95% CI = [0.33, 1.3] and d = 1.17, 95% CI = [0.62, 1.65]) interpretation bias and anhedonia. Despite the limitation to a two week follow-up, the study findings highlight the potential of imagery CBM as a brief, easily accessible intervention for depression that can be delivered remotely in peoples' home.

Keywords: Cognitive-bias modification; Depression; Internet; Mental imagery.