Evaluating Eye Movement and Memory Reactivation Procedures to Reduce Intrusive Traumatic Memories and PTSD Symptoms A Randomized Controlled Online Trial

What This Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating different memory reactivation methods combined with eye movements to address intrusive traumatic memories and PTSD symptoms. This trial focuses on adults aged 18 to 50 who have experienced trauma and suffer from recurring distressing memories. The study aims to find approaches that may be more acceptable and tolerable for individuals by comparing several eye-movement-based procedures. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups one uses unconscious trauma-related visual cues with eye movements, another involves active recall of trauma memories combined with eye movements, and the third uses neutral memory recall with eye movements. The study is conducted entirely online, allowing participants to complete tasks and assessments digitally. Those unwilling or unable to proceed with the active trauma recall procedure will discontinue that intervention but may participate in optional follow-up for safety and acceptability information. Throughout the study, participants complete assessments measuring the number and distress of intrusive memories, PTSD symptom severity, depression, anxiety, and social functioning at multiple time points, including baseline, during the intervention, and up to two months after. The primary outcome focuses on the frequency of trauma-related intrusive memories between days 66 and 72 compared to baseline. Safety, acceptability, and adherence are also monitored, with the total study duration extending several weeks post-intervention.

Eye Movement Intervention With Different Memory Reactivation Procedures for Intrusive Traumatic Memories