The Effects of an Internet-Based Imagery Rehearsal Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Annika Gieselmann, Max Böckermann, Marjolijn Sorbi, Reinhard Pietrowsky
Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics 2017 DOI: 10.1159/000470846 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 127 |
| Population | Patients suffering from mainly idiopathic nightmares |
| Intervention | Imagery rehearsal therapy |
| Keywords | Imagery rehearsal therapy Internet-based therapy Nightmares Randomized controlled trial |
| Key findings | Internet-based imagery rehearsal therapy reduced nightmare frequency and distress, and was superior to a nightmare frequency control condition on both measures, but only superior to a narrative control group on distress. |
Abstract
Nightmares are extremely dysphoric dreams, which are prevalent and associated with psychological strain. This study investigated (a) the efficacy of an internet-based imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT), (b) the role of imagery rescription, and (c) the role of guidance during internet-based IRT. A total of 127 patients suffering from mainly idiopathic nightmares were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 IRT internet-based groups (guided IRT; unguided IRT) or to 1 of 2 active control groups (frequency control group; narrative control group). IRT was more effective than a nightmare frequency control condition with respect to nightmare frequency and nightmare distress. Compared to the narrative control group, IRT was only superior in improving nightmare distress but not in nightmare frequency because the narrative control group also improved regarding nightmare frequency. Guidance by a nightmare coach did not affect efficacy, compliance, or dropout. Internet-based IRT seems to be an effective treatment even when offered with minimal guidance by a nightmare coach. Describing the nightmare narrative in detail already decreased nightmare frequency. However, with regard to inducing decreases in nightmare frequency and nightmare distress, IRT was superior to the narrative control group. The results are discussed with reference to the mastery hypothesis.