Work

Interpretation Bias Modification Training for Adults with Histories of Childhood Abuse

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Background: This study evaluated the effectiveness of Interpretation Bias Modification Training (IBMT) designed to reduce interpretation bias and psychopathology in individuals with a history of childhood abuse and examined potential mechanisms of change, including the added value of psychoeducation.Methods: In this three-arm randomized controlled trial (N=35), participants aged 19~25 years were assigned to receive IBMT, IBMT plus psychoeducation, or an active placebo control.Results: IBMT significantly reduced the tendency to interpret ambiguous facial expressions as anger and decreased psychopathological symptoms, including anxiety, interpersonal sensitivity, and hostility. These improvements were maintained at a 2-week follow-up. Reductions in interpretation bias and negative affect were associated with decreases in psychopathology, supporting their role as potential mechanisms underlying the effects of IBMT. In contrast, psychoeducation did not confer incremental benefits.Conclusions: These findings suggest that IBMT may be an effective cognitive intervention for individuals with a history of childhood abuse by directly targeting maladaptive interpretation processes.

Source: Korean Journal of Stress Research

DOI: 10.17547/kjsr.2026.34.1.52

Authors: Hyeju Ha, Eun-Jung Shim

Institution: Pusan National University

Language: English

Topic: Anxiety, Depression, Psychometrics, Treatment, Cognitive Processes

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $230