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Conceptualizing Acceptance and Knowledge as Process Variables in Internet-Delivered and Therapist-Supported Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in Primary Care for Insomnia: Pilot Feasibility and Process-Oriented Randomized Controlled Trial

Year: 2026

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Background: Internet-based interventions for insomnia show promise, but understanding the process variables, such as knowledge acquisition and psychological acceptance, is crucial for enhancing digital adherence and clinical effectiveness. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, adherence, and preliminary clinical signals of 2 therapist-assisted interventions-internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) and internet-delivered acceptance and commitment therapy (iACT)-for insomnia in a primary care setting. Methods: This was a pilot randomized controlled trial. Adults seeking help for insomnia (n=18) were recruited via primary care and randomized to either a 5-module iCBT or iACT program delivered via a secure digital platform with weekly therapist feedback. Blinding of participants and therapists was not possible due to the nature of the interventions. Primary outcomes included the Insomnia Severity Index; secondary outcomes included the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and WHO Disability Assessment Schedule. A novel sleep knowledge test was used as a process variable. The data were analyzed using split-plot analyses of variance (intention-to-treat or last observation carried forward and complete case analysis) and nonparametric Friedman and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: A total of 18 participants were randomized (iCBT: n=9; iACT: n=9). High attrition was observed, with only 33.3% (n=3) of iCBT and 55.6% (n=5) of iACT participants completing all modules. The iACT group demonstrated a significant within-group reduction in insomnia severity (P=.01, Friedman test), whereas iCBT results were nonsignificant (P=.10, Friedman test). No significant between-group differences were found for any clinical or process variables. Participants rated both treatments as credible (Credibility/Expectancy Questionnaire scores remained stable), though qualitative feedback indicated a need for more flexible, less burdensome content. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrates that while internet-delivered insomnia treatments are feasible and credible in primary care, high attrition remains a significant barrier. Preliminary signals suggest that iACT may be a viable alternative to iCBT, potentially offering better adherence. Larger, fully powered pilot randomized controlled trials (estimated N=404) with refined recruitment and automated retention strategies are required to determine definitive comparative efficacy and the mediating role of sleep knowledge and acceptance.

Source: JMIR Formative Research

DOI: 10.2196/81285

Authors: Anna Caroline Larsson, Susanna Jernelöv, Viktor Kaldo, Kerstin Blom, Sandra Weineland