Evaluation of Exposure Instructions to Pain: Should Therapist Focus on Fear Reduction or Expectation Violation?

This study provides experimental evidence for the effectiveness of exposure-based interventions among individuals confronting acute thermal pain. Instructions addressing expectation violations appeared to produce the greatest effects. Testing concrete expectancies might further improve exposure effects. Future research needs to translate our findings into clinical practice.
Source: Cognitive Therapy and Research - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research