Brief Psycho-Social Interventions in the Treatment of Specific Childhood Phobias: A Controlled Trial and a 1-Year Follow-Up

2010 ◽  
Vol 27 (3) ◽  
pp. 130-153 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natalie Flatt ◽  
Neville King
Keyword(s):  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Research Strategies ◽  
Waitlist Control ◽  
Social Interventions ◽  
Treatment Conditions ◽  
Dsm Iv

AbstractForty-three youth aged 7–17 years old who fulfilled DSM-IV criteria for assorted specific phobias, were randomised to a one-session exposure treatment, a psycho-education package or a waitlist control conditions. Participants were assessed using semi-structured interviews, self-report measures and an individualised behavioural avoidance test (BAT). Assessments were completed pre- and posttest. At the 1-year follow-up, self-report measures along with a generalised version of the individualised BAT were re-administered. Results exhibited that both active treatment conditions were superior to the waitlist control on the BAT, self-efficacy ratings; however, no significant differences were found on functioning levels and other self-report measures with the exception of the Fear Survey Schedule — Revised. Additionally, no significant differences were found between the two active conditions at posttest or the 1-year follow-up. Implications and future research strategies are discussed.

A Randomised Controlled Trial of Strategies to Prompt Attendance for a Pap Smear

1995 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 211-218 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jenny Bowman ◽  
Rob Sanson-Fisher ◽  
Catherine Boyle ◽  
Stephanie Pope ◽  
Sally Redman
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Randomised Controlled Trial ◽  
Pap Smear ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Health Clinic ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Screening Attendance ◽  
Randomised Controlled

Objective – To assess the comparative efficacy, by randomised controlled trial, of three interventions designed to encourage “at risk” women to have a Pap smear: an educational pamphlet; letters inviting attendance at a women's health clinic; and letters from physicians. Methods – Subjects at risk for cervical cancer who had not been adequately screened were identified by a random community survey and randomly allocated to one of the intervention groups or a control group. Six months after intervention implementation, a follow up survey assessed subsequent screening attendance. Self report was validated by comparison with a national screening data base. Results – A significantly greater proportion of women (36.9%) within the group receiving a physician letter reported screening at follow up than in any other group (P =0.012). The variables most strongly predicting screening attendance were: age, perceived frequency of screening required, use of oral contraceptives, and allocation to receive the physician letter intervention. Conclusions – The relative efficacy of the GP letter in prompting screening attendance shows that this strategy is worthy of further investigation. There remains a need to examine the barriers to screening for older women, and to develop tailored strategies for this population.

scholarly journals Evaluating the effectiveness of a group-based resilience intervention versus psychoeducation for emergency responders in England: A randomised controlled trial

PLoS ONE ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (11) ◽  
pp. e0241704
Author(s):  
Jennifer Wild ◽  
Shama El-Salahi ◽  
Michelle Degli Esposti ◽  
Graham R. Thew
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Randomised Controlled Trial ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Emergency Responders ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Randomised Controlled ◽  
Resilience Intervention

Background Emergency responders are routinely exposed to traumatic critical incidents and other occupational stressors that place them at higher risk of mental ill health compared to the general population. There is some evidence to suggest that resilience training may improve emergency responders’ wellbeing and related health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a tertiary service resilience intervention compared to psychoeducation for improving psychological outcomes among emergency workers. Methods We conducted a multicentre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. Minim software was used to randomly allocate police, ambulance, fire, and search and rescue services personnel, who were not suffering from depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, to Mind’s group intervention or to online psychoeducation on a 3:1 basis. The resilience intervention was group-based and included stress management and mindfulness tools for reducing stress. It was delivered by trained staff at nine centres across England in six sessions, one per week for six weeks. The comparison intervention was psychoeducation about stress and mental health delivered online, one module per week for six weeks. Primary outcomes were assessed by self-report and included wellbeing, resilience, self-efficacy, problem-solving, social capital, confidence in managing mental health, and number of days off work due to illness. Follow-up was conducted at three months. Blinding of participants, researchers and outcome assessment was not possible due to the type of interventions. Results A total of 430 participants (resilience intervention N = 317; psychoeducation N = 113) were randomised and included in intent-to-treat analyses. Linear Mixed-Effects Models did not show a significant difference between the interventions, at either the post-intervention or follow-up time points, on any outcome measure. Conclusions The limited success of this intervention is consistent with the wider literature. Future refinements to the intervention may benefit from targeting predictors of resilience and mental ill health. Trial registration ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN79407277.

scholarly journals How feasible are lifestyle modification programs for disease prevention in general practice?

2012 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heike Schütze ◽  
Elizabeth F. Rix ◽  
Rachel A. Laws ◽  
Megan Passey ◽  
Mahnaz Fanaian ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
General Practice ◽  
Vascular Disease ◽  
Lifestyle Modification ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Health Providers ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Lifestyle Modification Program

Vascular disease is a leading cause of death and disability. While it is preventable, little is known about the feasibility or acceptability of implementing interventions to prevent vascular disease in Australian primary health care. We conducted a cluster randomised controlled trial assessing prevention of vascular disease in patients aged 40–65 by providing a lifestyle modification program in general practice. Interviews with 13 general practices in the intervention arm of this trial examined their views on implementing the lifestyle modification program in general practice settings. Qualitative study, involving thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 11 general practitioners, four practice nurses and five allied health providers between October 2009 and April 2010. Providing brief lifestyle intervention fitted well with routine health-check consultations; however, acceptance and referral to the program was dependent on the level of facilitation provided by program coordinators. Respondents reported that patients engaged with the advice and strategies provided in the program, which helped them make lifestyle changes. Practice nurse involvement was important to sustaining implementation in general practice, while the lack of referral services for people at risk of developing vascular disease threatens maintenance of lifestyle changes as few respondents thought patients would continue lifestyle changes without long-term follow up. Lifestyle modification programs to prevent vascular disease are feasible in general practice but must be provided in a flexible format, such as being offered out of hours to facilitate uptake, with ongoing support and follow up to assist maintenance. The newly formed Medicare Locals may have an important role in facilitating lifestyle modification programs for this target group.

In Search of Hopeful Glimpses: A Critique of Research Strategies in Current Boot Camp Evaluations

1998 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 314-334 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sheldon X. Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Program Effectiveness ◽  
Community Setting ◽  
Boot Camp ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Research Strategies ◽  
Report Data ◽  
Self Report Data ◽  
Staff Commitment ◽  
Matching Techniques

This article presents a comprehensive review of research strategies in recently published boot camp evaluations, points out areas where changes are needed, and suggests alternatives for future research efforts. In particular, it calls for wider use of self-report data and sample matching techniques to augment current measures of program effectiveness. It also emphasizes the inclusion of measures on offenders' community reintegration and the involvement of their social networks during and after treatment. More important, future studies should also examine how nonprogrammatic factors (i.e., staff commitment, staff/client interactions, and community setting) may affect the outcomes. An integrated evaluation paradigm in suggested.

Training Teachers to Manage Students with Asperger's Syndrome in an Inclusive Classroom Setting

2008 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 34-48 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharon Hinton ◽  
Kate Sofronoff ◽  
Jeanie Sheffield
Keyword(s):  
Asperger's Syndrome ◽  
Asperger’S Syndrome ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Inclusive Classroom ◽  
Classroom Setting ◽  
Teacher Competence ◽  
Problem Behaviours

AbstractThis controlled trial of a teacher training intervention aimed to increase teacher competence in managing the problem behaviours associated with Asperger's syndrome, as manifested in a classroom setting. All teacher-participants currently managed a student with Asperger's syndrome in an inclusive classroom setting. Measures were taken on two occasions: pre-workshop and 6-week follow-up. Variables of interest were number of problem behaviours, success of teacher strategies used to manage problem behaviours and teacher self-efficacy in managing behaviours. Qualitative data assessing both the utility of the workshop and effectiveness of the individual management strategies was also gathered. At 6-week follow up, teachers reported increased confidence in their ability to manage the student with Asperger's syndrome, fewer problem behaviours displayed by the student and increased success in using strategies to manage the student in the classroom. The utility of both the workshop itself and individual management strategies were also endorsed by all teacher-participants. Suggestions for future research and limitation of the study are also discussed.

A Comparison of Engagement Strategies for Encouraging Outdoor Walking

2012 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 62-70 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jason Duvall
Keyword(s):  
Standard Care ◽  
Prior Experience ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Walking Behavior ◽  
Engagement Strategies ◽  
Walking Intervention ◽  
Treatment Conditions ◽  
Cognitive Awareness ◽  
Outdoor Walking

Background:This study investigated the effectiveness of enhanced cognitive awareness as a means of encouraging outdoor walking. An intervention using engagement-based strategies was compared with a more traditional walking intervention focused on developing and committing to a personalized walking schedule.Methods:117 adults were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments—Standard Care (schedule setting, commitment) or Engagement (awareness plans)—and asked to take at least 3, 30 minute outdoor walks each week for 2 weeks. During the study period, self-report and objective measures were used to collect data on walking behavior.Results:Individuals in both treatment conditions reported significant increases (P < .05) in walking behavior. Participants in both treatments failed to sustain these increases at a follow-up measure 4 weeks later. However, the Engagement condition was particularly effective for those individuals who had less prior experience maintaining a walking routine.Conclusion:Overall, the findings suggest it may be beneficial to incorporate engagement-based strategies into existing walking interventions. Results of this study also raise the possibility that efforts to encourage cognitive awareness may make the outdoor walking experience more interesting and enjoyable.

scholarly journals Metacognitive reflection and insight therapy (MERIT) for patients with schizophrenia

2018 ◽  
Vol 49 (2) ◽  
pp. 303-313 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. de Jong ◽  
R. J. M. van Donkersgoed ◽  
M. E. Timmerman ◽  
M. aan het Rot ◽  
L. Wunderink ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Drop Out ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Self Reflection ◽  
Intention To Treat ◽  
Metacognitive Reflection ◽  
Secondary Outcomes

AbstractBackgroundImpaired metacognition is associated with difficulties in the daily functioning of people with psychosis. Metacognition can be divided into four domains: Self-Reflection, Understanding the Other's Mind, Decentration, and Mastery. This study investigated whether Metacognitive Reflection and Insight Therapy (MERIT) can be used to improve metacognition.MethodsThis study is a randomized controlled trial. Patients in the active condition (n = 35) received forty MERIT sessions, the control group (n = 35) received treatment as usual. Multilevel intention-to-treat and completers analyses were performed for metacognition and secondary outcomes (psychotic symptomatology, cognitive insight, Theory of Mind, empathy, depression, self-stigma, quality of life, social functioning, and work readiness).ResultsEighteen out of 35 participants finished treatment, half the drop-out stemmed from therapist attrition (N = 5) or before the first session (N = 4). Intention-to-treat analysis demonstrated that in both groups metacognition improved between pre- and post-measurements, with no significant differences between the groups. Patients who received MERIT continued to improve, while the control group returned to baseline, leading to significant differences at follow-up. Completers analysis (18/35) showed improvements on the Metacognition Assessment Scale (MAS-A) scales Self Reflectivity and metacognitive Mastery at follow-up. No effects were found on secondary outcomes.ConclusionsOn average, participants in the MERIT group were, based on MAS-A scores, at follow-up more likely to recognize their thoughts as changeable rather than as facts. MERIT might be useful for patients whose self-reflection is too limited to benefit from other therapies. Given how no changes were found in secondary measures, further research is needed. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.

PREDICTORS OF THERAPEUTIC FAILURE IN SLOT-MACHINE PATHOLOGICAL GAMBLERS FOLLOWING BEHAVIOURAL TREATMENT

2001 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 379-383 ◽  
Author(s):  
Enrique Echeburúa ◽  
Javier Fernández-Montalvo ◽  
Concepción Báez
Keyword(s):  
Therapeutic Failure ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Personality Variable ◽  
Behavioural Treatment ◽  
Pathological Gamblers ◽  
Predictive Variables ◽  
Dsm Iv ◽  
One Year ◽  
High Level

The aim of this paper was to determine the features of pathological gamblers who dropped out of the treatment or relapsed within a one year follow-up period. The sample consisted of 69 patients selected according to DSM-IV criteria. Results indicated that the only difference between the patients who dropped out of treatment and the ones who completed was the level of state-anxiety. The former were more anxious than the latter. Predictive variables for the therapeutic failure were the dissatisfaction with the treatment, the high level of alcohol consumption, and the neuroticism as a personality variable. Implications of the study for clinical practice and future research in this field are commented upon.

scholarly journals Experiences of patients and physiotherapists with blended internet-based vestibular rehabilitation: a qualitative interview study

BJGP Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (5) ◽  
pp. bjgpopen20X101092
Author(s):  
Vincent A van Vugt ◽  
Anja JThCM de Kruif ◽  
Johannes C van der Wouden ◽  
Henriëtte E van der Horst ◽  
Otto R Maarsingh
Keyword(s):  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Randomised Trial ◽  
Qualitative Interview ◽  
Vestibular Rehabilitation ◽  
Interview Study ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Qualitative Interview Study ◽  
Vestibular Symptoms ◽  
Randomised Controlled

BackgroundInternet-based vestibular rehabilitation (VR) with physiotherapy support, known as blended VR, was effective in reducing vestibular symptoms in a recent randomised controlled trial. Blended VR is a complex intervention comprised of physiotherapeutic visits, the vertigo training website, and VR exercises. Because of these interacting components, it is important to understand how blended VR works, for whom it works best, and how it should ideally be delivered.AimTo investigate the experiences of both patients and physiotherapists with blended internet-based VR.Design & settingA qualitative interview study was performed with patients who received blended internet-based VR with physiotherapy support, and physiotherapists who provided this support.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 patients and eight physiotherapists after the 6-month follow-up of the randomised trial. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analysed.ResultsAccording to both patients and physiotherapists, the physiotherapist visits were useful in providing personal attention, helping patients safely execute exercises, and improving patients’ adherence to therapy. Some patients said they did not need physiotherapist support and, according to physiotherapists, both the necessity and the optimal way to deliver guidance differed greatly between patients. The Vertigo Training website and exercises provided patients with a sense of control over their symptoms. Patients reported that the VR exercises were easy to perform and most patients continued to use them long after the trial ended.ConclusionIn blended VR, physiotherapeutic visits appear to offer benefits above the vertigo training website and VR exercises alone. Physiotherapy support may best be used when individually tailored.

scholarly journals Game-Based Meditation Therapy to Improve Posttraumatic Stress and Neurobiological Stress Systems in Traumatized Adolescents: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angela A T Schuurmans ◽  
Karin S Nijhof ◽  
Ron Scholte ◽  
Arne Popma ◽  
Roy Otten
Keyword(s):  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Posttraumatic Stress ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Posttraumatic Symptoms ◽  
Secondary Outcomes ◽  
Anxiety Depression

BACKGROUND Many adolescents in residential care have been exposed to prolonged traumatic experiences such as violence, neglect, or abuse. Consequently, they suffer from posttraumatic stress. This not only negatively affects psychological and behavioral outcomes (eg, increased anxiety, depression, and aggression) but also has adverse effects on physiological outcomes, in particular on their neurobiological stress systems. Although current evidence-based treatment options are effective, they have their limitations. An alternative to traditional trauma treatment is meditation-based treatment that focuses on stress regulation and relaxation. Muse is a game-based meditation intervention that makes use of adolescents’ intrinsic motivation. The neurofeedback element reinforces relaxation abilities. OBJECTIVE This paper describes the protocol for a randomized controlled trial in which the goal is to examine the effectiveness of Muse (InteraXon Inc) in reducing posttraumatic stress and normalizing neurobiological stress systems in a sample of traumatized adolescents in residential care. METHODS This will be a multicenter, multi-informant, and multimethod randomized controlled trial. Participants will be adolescents (N=80), aged 10 to 18 years, with clinical levels of posttraumatic symptoms, who are randomized to receive either the Muse therapy sessions and treatment as usual (intervention) or treatment as usual alone (control). Data will be collected at 3 measurement instances: pretest (T1), posttest (T2), and at 2-month follow-up. Primary outcomes will be posttraumatic symptoms (self-report and mentor report) and stress (self-report) at posttest. Secondary outcomes will be neurobiological stress parameters under both resting and acute stress conditions, and anxiety, depression, and aggression at posttest. Secondary outcomes also include all measures at 2-month follow-up: posttraumatic symptoms, stress, anxiety, depression aggression, and neurobiological resting parameters. RESULTS The medical-ethical committee Arnhem-Nijmegen (NL58674.091.16) approved the trial on November 15, 2017. The study was registered on December 2, 2017. Participant enrollment started in January 2018, and the results of the study are expected to be published in spring or summer 2021. CONCLUSIONS Study results will demonstrate whether game-based meditation therapy improves posttraumatic stress and neurobiological stress systems, and whether it is more effective than treatment as usual alone for traumatized adolescents. CLINICALTRIAL Netherlands Trial Register NL6689 (NTR6859); https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/6689 INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT DERR1-10.2196/19881

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