Mobile Anger Reduction Intervention

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Oct 16, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the Mobile Anger Reduction Intervention (MARI), aims to help veterans who have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and struggle with anger. Many veterans find it challenging to control their anger, which can affect their daily lives and relationships. In this study, participants will be divided into two groups: one will use the MARI app designed to reduce anger, and the other will receive general health education through a different mobile app. Researchers believe that those using MARI will see more improvements in their anger levels and overall functioning compared to those in the health education group.

To participate, you must be a veteran diagnosed with PTSD, have scores indicating significant anger issues, and be stable on your current psychiatric medications for at least three months. You should also be able to read at least at a 6th-grade level. However, if you are currently experiencing severe mental health issues, like active psychosis or thoughts of harming yourself or others, or if you are involved in other anger management therapies, you may not be eligible for this study. If you join, you can expect to engage with the MARI app and possibly see positive changes in how you manage anger. The trial is currently recruiting participants, so there's an opportunity to take part in this important research aimed at improving veterans' well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, established via chart review and a score of greater than or equal to 33 on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)
• • Reporting a score of greater than or equal to 12 on the 5-item Dimensions of Anger Reactions Scale
• • Have not had any changes to type or dose of psychiatric medications for 3 months, with no plans to make adjustments in the next 6 months
• • Able to read at least 6th grade level material
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Currently in a period of active psychosis or mania
• • Exhibit current prominent suicidal or homicidal ideation requiring immediate intervention
• • Have used the MARI application before as part of another research study
• • Receiving (or plan to receive) other anger management psychotherapy or trauma-focused therapy for PTSD (i.e., prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy during the course of the study