An Anger-based Approach-Avoidance Modification Training Targeting Dysfunctional Beliefs in Adults with Elevated Stress – Results from a Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Abstract

We examined the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical potential of a smartphone-based Approach-Avoidance Modification Training (AAMT) that required users to deliberately display anger and positive emotions (AAMT-AP) to move (dys-)functional stress-related beliefs away from and towards themselves, respectively. The per protocol sample consisted of N = 30 participants randomized to an AAMT-AP condition, a swipe control condition, or an inactive control condition. Feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and study design were assessed directly and changes in clinical outcomes (perceived stress (primary outcome), dysfunctional beliefs, symptoms of depression, and emotion regulation skills) one week after intervention completion. The results indicated that AAMT-AP was feasible and acceptable to participants. Moreover, notable effect sizes for clinical outcomes in comparison with both control conditions provided preliminary evidence for its therapeutic potential. Future research should evaluate the efficacy of AAMT-AP in sufficiently powered randomized controlled trials.