Verbal suggestions fail to modulate expectations about the effectiveness of a laboratory model of EMDR therapy: Results of two preregistered studies

Mertens, Gaëtan; Schie, Kevin van; Lammertink, Sophie; Littel, Marianne; Engelhard, Iris M.

doi:10.1016/j.jbtep.2021.101673

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 24 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…Some studies show that Recall + EM leads to clear reductions in vividness and emotionality compared to Recall Only [4,11]. Others show no change from the pre-test to follow-up for either condition [12,13] or find equal reductions in memory ratings in both conditions [14][15][16][17][18]. There is even one study that showed that the effects of Recall + EM are short-lived and relapse 24h later; thus showing larger reductions for Recall Only from pre-test to follow-up [19].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Boosting Long-Term Effects of Degraded Memories via Acute Stress

Schie¹,

Burghart²,

Kang

et al. 2022

Preprint

Self Cite

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Combining recall of an emotional memory with simultaneous horizontal eye movements (i.e., Recall+EM) reduces memory aversiveness. However, the long-term persistence of this effect is inconsistent across studies. Given that stress may aid in the consolidation of memories, we examined whether acute stress can boost the long-term effects of degraded memories. To test this, participants recalled two negative memories, which were assigned to a Recall+EM or Recall Only condition. Before and after each intervention they rated memory aversiveness (i.e., immediate effects) followed by a stress-induction or control procedure. After a 24h-period, participants rated each memory again (i.e., long-term effects). We found that Recall+EM produces immediate effects but that these effects dissolve over time. Moreover, acute stress did not boost potential long-term effects of Recall+EM. Degraded memories were not retained better by applying stress. We discuss these results and how long-term effectiveness may still be achieved.

show abstract