Smartphone-Based Two-Week Reward Training to Reduce Anhedonia and Psychological Distress

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a two-week ecological momentary intervention EMI aimed at reducing anhedonia and psychological distress such as depression, stress, and anxiety. Anhedonia, the reduced ability to experience pleasure, is common in various psychological disorders and is linked to impaired reward processing. This study compares a reward-focused intervention with progressive muscle relaxation to understand their effects on improving reward-related functions and mental well-being. Participants are randomly assigned to either the reward training group or the active control group. The reward training group completes three daily exercises delivered via a smartphone app, which include positive mental imagery, savoring, gratitude, silver lining, and taking ownership of positive experiences. The control group receives progressive muscle relaxation training with two guided relaxation sessions and one reflection session daily. Both interventions last for two weeks and are presented through audio recordings on the app. During the study, participants complete ecological momentary assessments EMA three times daily alongside the exercises to track mood, activity, and psychological symptoms. Researchers measure changes in anhedonia, depression, anxiety, stress, reward sensitivity, and other emotional and cognitive factors at baseline, after two weeks, and at a three-month follow-up. Safety and negative effects are also monitored. The total participation duration includes the two-week intervention and follow-up assessments to evaluate lasting effects.

Ecological Momentary Intervention for Reward in Anhedonia