A Tetris Intervention Following Subliminal Reactivation for Reducing Intrusive Memories in Trauma-exposed Individuals: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Intrusive memories of traumatic events are a core feature of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and can cause substantial distress and functional impairment. Existing trauma-focused treatments are effective but often require deliberate recollection of traumatic experiences, which can be distressing for some individuals. Previous experimental studies in healthy participants found that masked reactivation of trauma-related cues, followed after a brief interval by a visuospatial interference task using Tetris gameplay, reduced the frequency and emotional intensity of intrusive memories. Building on these findings, the present randomized controlled trial evaluates the efficacy of this intervention in trauma-exposed individuals experiencing three or more intrusive memories per week.
• Meet DSM-5 PTSD Criterion A (eg, exposure to actual or threatened death). Have experienced one or more traumatic events.
• Experienced three or more intrusive memories during the baseline week.
• Have internet access and have access to a personal computer.
• Be willing to provide consent and able to complete study procedures and be contacted by the study team.