Modifying dysfunctional beliefs in social anxiety disorder with an emotion-focused approach-avoidance modification training - a pilot study.
J Behav Ther Exp PsychiatryApr 19, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry
Hannah Streit, Lena Merkt, Marie Reindl et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled pilot study evaluated the feasibility and therapeutic potential of an emotion-focused approach-avoidance modification training (eAAMT) for social anxiety disorder (SAD) in 30 participants. The results indicated that those receiving eAAMT-SAD experienced a greater reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to control groups, with effect sizes of g = 0.42 and g = 0.39 for pre-post comparisons.
Key findings
- Participants in the eAAMT-SAD condition showed a greater reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to the non-active control group.
- Effect size for anxiety reduction in the eAAMT-SAD group was g = 0.42 compared to the non-active control.
- Follow-up results indicated a sustained reduction in anxiety symptoms with an effect size of g = 0.56 for the non-active control group.
Why it matters
Understanding and modifying dysfunctional beliefs in social anxiety disorder can enhance treatment outcomes. This study suggests that eAAMT may be a promising intervention to reduce anxiety symptoms, warranting further investigation.