A Question of Control? Examining the Role of Control Conditions in Experimental Psychopathology using the Example of Cognitive Bias Modification Research

• DOI: 10.1017/sjp.2017.41
• Publication Date: 2017-10-26T05:30:01Z
• Authors: Simon E. Blackwell; Marcella L. Woud; Colin MacLeod
• Keywords: Cognitive bias modification

Abstract While control conditions are vitally important in research, selecting the optimal condition can be challenging. Problems likely to arise when choice of is not tightly guided by specific question that a given study aims address. Such problems have become increasingly apparent experimental psychopathology research investigating modification cognitive biases, particularly as focus this has shifted from theoretical questions concerning mechanistic aspects association between bias and emotional vulnerability, instead concern clinical efficacy ‘cognitive modification’ (CBM) procedures. We discuss kinds typically been employed CBM illustrating how difficulties changes types asked accompanied employed. Crucially, claims made on basis comparing active within studies should restricted those conclusions allowed aiming establish utility require quite different illuminate mechanisms. Further, interventions cannot necessarily drawn which chosen answer Appreciating need appropriately alter transition basic mechanisms-focussed investigations applied could greatly facilitate translational process.