Abstract
Abstract Automatic tendencies to approach addictionrelated stimuli have been linked to the development and maintenance of harmful drug use behavior. Recent studies have shown that these automatic approaches can be directly addressed and modified by cognitive bias modification (CBM). However, the training and treatment effects are rather small and compliance could be impaired by time-consuming, multiple laboratory training sessions. Here we present a mobile variant of the Approach-Avoidance Task (app-AAT), which is evaluated by a feasibility study. The app-AAT is designed to improve the efficiency of CBM training by allowing smokers to access the training at any time, and by offering the option to track consumed cigarettes. Our first run with eight participants showed that the app was rated very positively with 4.2 out of 5 points (engagement: 3.7, functionality: 4.5, aesthetics: 4.4) by using the german Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS-G).
Highlights
Nicotine and tobacco are still among the most deadly addictive substances today
The app must be able to implement the general requirements of the avoidance task (AAT) in order to be used for cognitive bias modification (CBM) training
To evaluate the Approach-Avoidance Task (app-AAT) by a feasibility study, participants were divided into two groups: The training group (TG) and the placebo control group (CG)
Summary
Dual process models [4, 13] assume that our behavior is controlled by two different cognitive processes. "Pull all pictures tilted to the left towards you and push all pictures tilted to the right away from you") Since this interaction, in which addiction-related images are pushed away, is trained in each session with several hundred images, it is hoped that after a few sessions the addiction-related approach bias will become weaker. In which addiction-related images are pushed away, is trained in each session with several hundred images, it is hoped that after a few sessions the addiction-related approach bias will become weaker This in turn would have the positive effects of permanently reducing consumption, and supporting traditional therapies that address reflective processes. The app’s settings are automatically adjusted, making user intervention impossible
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