In:
Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, Cambridge University Press (CUP), Vol. 46, No. 2 ( 2018-03), p. 195-208
Abstract:
Background : Positive expectations play an important role in effective treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD). The way a study is contextualized modulates prognostic expectations. Aims : The aim of the study was to test the effect of differing information regarding the rationale given to participants for a study on depression symptoms. Method : Sixty-nine participants with depression symptoms participated in an online study with two conditions. In random order, half were invited to participate in a treatment study and half in a cognition study. After completing the baseline assessment, participants received one of two self-help manuals. Post-assessment was conducted six weeks later. Results : Only about 64% of the participants were reached for post-assessment, and adherence was low. However, our results offer the first evidence that stronger improvements emerged in participants who were told the trial was a treatment study compared with a cognition study. Conclusion : Information given about the rationale for a study could influence symptom reduction in online treatments for patients with MDD. Future (online) studies should attempt to replicate these results.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1352-4658
,
1469-1833
DOI:
10.1017/S1352465817000571
Language:
English
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication Date:
2018
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1499945-6
SSG:
5,2
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