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Digital EMDR : using adaptive algorithms in digital trauma therapy to improve desensitization of traumatic memories in university students

Gerdemann, M.C. (2022) Digital EMDR : using adaptive algorithms in digital trauma therapy to improve desensitization of traumatic memories in university students.

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Abstract:EMDR is commonly used in PTSD treatment to degrade traumatic memories by recalling the memory and simultaneously taxing one’s working memory (WM). It is unclear how intensely WM should be taxed to maximize desensitization, but evidence points towards a linear dose-response relationship with a ceiling effect. A digital EMDR application with an algorithm adapting to WM capacity may account for individual WM capacity. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent digital EMDR using an algorithm adapting to individual WM capacity affects desensitization of traumatic memories. It was hypothesized that individuals receiving digital EMDR with an algorithm will show greater levels of desensitization than individuals who receive no EMDR. Further, individual WM capacity was expected to not correlate with desensitization. University students were presented with a disturbing video and were randomly allocated to receive digital EMDR with the algorithm or no EMDR. Desensitization was measured thrice. No significant differences in desensitization were found between the two groups. Further, no correlation between individual WM capacity and desensitization was found. The notion that digital EMDR is effective is not supported by the results. The ceiling effect’s existence may be questioned, in which case the algorithm may have inhibited desensitization.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/91946
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