The Effects of the Flash Technique Compared to Those of an Abbreviated Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy Protocol on the Emotionality and Vividness of Aversive Memories.

Thomas C Brouwers,Ad De Jongh,Suzy J M A Matthijssen

doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.741163

Abstract

Introduction: The Flash technique is a novel intervention aimed at rapidly decreasing the subjective disturbance of an aversive memory, thereby serving as a potential way of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The protocol is used to stimulate clients to engage in positive imagery while being discouraged to actively recollect the targeted disturbing memory. Previous research into the Flash technique’s efficacy shows promising results, yet controlled studies are lacking.Objectives: To test the efficacy of the Flash technique, it was compared to an abbreviated eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol in a controlled experimental setting. We hypothesized that the Flash technique would lead to a larger decrease in the emotionality and vividness of an aversive autobiographical memory when compared to EMDR therapy. Our second hypothesis was that the procedure of the Flash technique would be evaluated more pleasant by its receiver.Method: The sample consisted of 60 non-clinical participants (mean age = 25.28 years; 73.33% female) who were able to recall an aversive autobiographical memory. They were randomized to either the Flash technique or the EMDR therapy condition. Measurements consisted of emotionality and vividness-ratings pre and post intervention, and at 1-week follow-up.Results: Bayesian analyses showed no differences between Flash and EMDR to the extent to which the emotionality and vividness of their memory was reduced. Afterward, the Flash technique was rated more pleasant than EMDR.Conclusion: The results support the claim that the Flash technique might be used as a brief and efficacious intervention for individuals suffering from disturbing memories. Although the results suggest that its efficacy does not differ from EMDR, the Flash technique seems to yield similar outcomes in a more pleasant way. Further research into its working mechanisms and in a clinical sample is required.

Highlights

The Flash technique is a novel intervention aimed at rapidly decreasing the subjective disturbance of an aversive memory, thereby serving as a potential way of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD criteria were not assessed with an official clinical interview, the results showed a large decrease in self-reported PTSD symptoms, subjective distress, and symptoms of depression and dissociation
Participants rated their disturbing memory with an average subjective units of disturbance (SUD) of 7.63 (SD = 0.80) at baseline

Summary

Introduction

The Flash technique is a novel intervention aimed at rapidly decreasing the subjective disturbance of an aversive memory, thereby serving as a potential way of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a wellstudied topic, having led to the development of global treatment guidelines aiming to maximize the therapeutic effectiveness of individuals suffering from this often debilitating mental health condition (American Psychiatric Association, 2017; International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, 2018; National Institute for Clinical Excellence, 2018). Treatment costs remain high (Mavranezouli et al, 2020) This situation prompts clinicians and researchers to explore ways to cost-effectively improve the effectiveness of treatments for PTSD. This urge to enhance the (cost-)effectiveness of these treatments brings forth a variety of new techniques and therapeutic interventions. The introduction of new therapies stimulates the constant development of a field, these interventions should remain subject of scientific examination before being employed in clinical practice

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Conclusion