The Effect of Time on Generalization of Exposure-based Benefit

Launched by RUHR UNIVERSITY OF BOCHUM · Feb 5, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how long the benefits of exposure therapy last for people who are afraid of spiders, a condition known as arachnophobia. Participants will first complete an assessment to measure their fear of spiders, followed by an exposure session where they will interact with a control spider. After this initial part, they will be divided into three groups based on when they will return for follow-up assessments: one week, six weeks, or three months later. During these follow-ups, participants will encounter both the control spider and a new spider to see how well the exposure therapy worked over time.

To be eligible for this trial, participants should be between the ages of 18 and 65 and must have a fear of spiders, but they should not have severe anxiety indicated by a high score in the initial assessment. Also, individuals with certain mental health conditions, those undergoing specific treatments, or pregnant women will not be included. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it offers an opportunity for individuals to explore their fear of spiders in a supportive research setting.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of fear of spiders (Potential diagnosis of arachnophobia)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Reaching level 10 or higher in the initial (Pre-Exposure) Spider BAT
• • Any acute or chronic mental and / or somatic disease
• • Psychological, psychiatric, neurological or pharmacological treatment
• • Drug or alcohol abuse
• • Pregnancy