A pilot study of interpretive cognitive bias modification for OCD: Targeting memory, uncertainty, and perfectionism biases

Previous research suggests that individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) lack confidence in their memories and experience intolerance of uncertainty regarding the completion of tasks, which fuels compulsive rituals. The current pilot study aimed to test a novel interpretive cognitive bias modification (CBM-I) training to attenuate maladaptive thinking styles related to memory distrust, intolerance of uncertainty, and perfectionism. A two-condition (CBM-I training: positive, control) repeated measures design was used to examine the effect of repeated CBM-I training. Participants diagnosed with OCD completed measures of interpretive biases, self-reported symptoms, and behavioral responses. Participants in both conditions interpreted novel ambiguous scenarios more adaptively and endorsed more adaptive OC-relevant beliefs following training. Findings were mixed for behavioral assessments of checking, uncertainty, and perfectionism. Although the small sample size and heterogeneity of the sample limits the conclusions that can be drawn, results highlight opportunities to improve experimental paradigms with better control conditions and idiographic stimuli.