Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Computer-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation on the Cognitive Bias of Veterans with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

Background: People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from war have more severe symptoms when combined with other chronic disorders, worsening their condition. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation on the cognitive bias of veterans with PTSD. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study with pretest, posttest, follow-up, and a control group. The statistical population included all the veterans under the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs coverage of Ahvaz, Iran, in 2021. After the necessary examinations, 45 eligible participants were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (15 participants per group) after the necessary coordination. The experimental groups separately received EMDR therapy and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation, whereas the control group received no intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA in SPSS-24 was used for data analysis. Results: The results showed that compared to the control group, EMDR and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions significantly influenced the cognitive bias of veterans with PTSD (P < 0.001). Moreover, cognitive bias scores from the posttest and follow-up significantly differed from those from the pretest (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Since EMDR and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation improved cognitive bias in veterans with PTSD, these methods are recommended for improving their psychological characteristics.