Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-09-22DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100947
Ida Mälarstig , Niklas Törneke , Tobias Lundgren , Sven Alfonsson , Mårten J. Tyrberg
Individually formulated goals are crucial in many therapeutic approaches, yet the underlying processes remain unclear. Relational Frame Theory (RFT) offers a framework for understanding language as a form of operant learning governed by contextual factors. For example, relating to a goal as superior influences the function of subordinate behaviours. The present feasibility study examined the concept of “goal-talk”, i.e., adolescents’ verbal behaviour surrounding goals, using data from interviews with twelve adolescents in compulsory institutional care who had undergone the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA). A coding manual was developed through deductive content analysis, and a preliminary exploratory analysis was conducted to examine associations between goal-talk, alignment with personal values, and behavioural change. Coding and analysing goal-talk from an RFT perspective proved feasible, and a higher frequency of goal-talk, particularly appetitive goal-talk, was associated with reductions in substance use and increased alignment with personal values. These findings provide preliminary support for the utility of goal-talk as a concept, but should be interpreted cautiously, given the small, homogeneous sample. Suggestions for further refinement of the coding manual and directions for future research are discussed.
{"title":"“Finding your values is important. You only die once.” - Analysing goal-talk in incarcerated adolescents struggling with substance use from a Relational Frame Theory perspective","authors":"Ida Mälarstig , Niklas Törneke , Tobias Lundgren , Sven Alfonsson , Mårten J. Tyrberg","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100947","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100947","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Individually formulated goals are crucial in many therapeutic approaches, yet the underlying processes remain unclear. Relational Frame Theory (RFT) offers a framework for understanding language as a form of operant learning governed by contextual factors. For example, relating to a goal as superior influences the function of subordinate behaviours. The present feasibility study examined the concept of “goal-talk”, i.e., adolescents’ verbal behaviour surrounding goals, using data from interviews with twelve adolescents in compulsory institutional care who had undergone the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA). A coding manual was developed through deductive content analysis, and a preliminary exploratory analysis was conducted to examine associations between goal-talk, alignment with personal values, and behavioural change. Coding and analysing goal-talk from an RFT perspective proved feasible, and a higher frequency of goal-talk, particularly appetitive goal-talk, was associated with reductions in substance use and increased alignment with personal values. These findings provide preliminary support for the utility of goal-talk as a concept, but should be interpreted cautiously, given the small, homogeneous sample. Suggestions for further refinement of the coding manual and directions for future research are discussed.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100947"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145159239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-10-15DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100956
Jess M. Williams , Conor Heath , Daniel Leightley , Dominic Murphy , Simon Dymond
Gambling harm and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) tend to be prevalent among veterans. Globally, help-seeking rates for gambling are low, and veterans may experience obstacles in accessing mental health support due to stigma. Digital health interventions may increase treatment uptake and improve outcomes for veterans. Here, we report findings from a pilot feasibility study of a novel smartphone application-based intervention, “ACT Vet”, based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for veterans experiencing PTSD symptoms, gambling harm, or both. A 10-week, within-subjects design was employed with 24 veterans (21 men, 2 women, 1 undisclosed; Mage = 45.29 years; SD = 10.70). Outcome measures assessed PTSD symptoms, gambling severity, psychological flexibility, anxiety, alcohol use, suicidality, and loneliness. We also examined participants' quality of life and app usability and acceptability ratings. Findings demonstrated significant reductions in both PTSD and gambling symptoms across the intervention, with a corresponding increase in psychological flexibility. Alcohol use also decreased post-intervention. High usability scores suggest the app was well-received by participants. Overall, the sustained improvements post-intervention indicates the successful deployment of ACT-based methods in an app format. ACT Vet has potential scalability as a first-line digital intervention for PTSD and/or gambling harm.
{"title":"Smartphone app-delivered Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for post-traumatic stress disorder and gambling harm in veterans: A pilot feasibility study","authors":"Jess M. Williams , Conor Heath , Daniel Leightley , Dominic Murphy , Simon Dymond","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100956","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100956","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Gambling harm and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) tend to be prevalent among veterans. Globally, help-seeking rates for gambling are low, and veterans may experience obstacles in accessing mental health support due to stigma. Digital health interventions may increase treatment uptake and improve outcomes for veterans. Here, we report findings from a pilot feasibility study of a novel smartphone application-based intervention, “ACT Vet”, based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for veterans experiencing PTSD symptoms, gambling harm, or both. A 10-week, within-subjects design was employed with 24 veterans (21 men, 2 women, 1 undisclosed; M<sub>age</sub> = 45.29 years; SD = 10.70). Outcome measures assessed PTSD symptoms, gambling severity, psychological flexibility, anxiety, alcohol use, suicidality, and loneliness. We also examined participants' quality of life and app usability and acceptability ratings. Findings demonstrated significant reductions in both PTSD and gambling symptoms across the intervention, with a corresponding increase in psychological flexibility. Alcohol use also decreased post-intervention. High usability scores suggest the app was well-received by participants. Overall, the sustained improvements post-intervention indicates the successful deployment of ACT-based methods in an app format. ACT Vet has potential scalability as a first-line digital intervention for PTSD and/or gambling harm.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100956"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145320706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-08-25DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100931
Kazuya Inoue , Isa Okajima
This study developed and examined the validity and reliability of a scale that simultaneously measures generalized pliance and tracking with more focus on actions in daily situations. The so-called Generalized Pliance and Tracking 2-way Scale: GPT-2s comprises 16 items (8 items each for generalized pliance and tracking). In Study 1, an online survey was conducted among 1500 Japanese individuals (420 men, 1054 women, 26 others [mean age = 29.47 years, SD = 10.89]). We confirmed no violation of unidimensionality in the generalized pliance and generalized tracking factors by item response theory. Internal consistency was measured with Cronbach’s α =.80 for the generalized pliance factor and .84 for the tracking factor. Test–retest reliability was also assessed with intraclass correlation (1,1) = .61, 95 % CI [.55, .67] for generalized pliance and intraclass correlation (1,1) = .56, 95 % CI [.49, .62] for tracking. Regarding convergent validity, the generalized pliance score had a moderately negative correlation with the autonomy factor on the psychological well-being scale (r = −.42). Conversely, the generalized tracking score had moderately positive correlations with the clarification of value and commitment (r = .43) and the overall psychological well-being scale score (r = .48). Furthermore, generalized tracking scores were higher in the healthy group. In Study 2, generalized pliance score showed positive correlation with the Generalized Pliance Questionnaire (r = .43) and generalized tracking score showed positive correlation with the Generalized Tracking Questionnaire (r = .54). Finally, we discussed the usefulness and limitations of the GPT-2s.
{"title":"Validity and reliability of the generalized pliance and tracking 2-way scale: GPT-2s","authors":"Kazuya Inoue , Isa Okajima","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100931","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100931","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study developed and examined the validity and reliability of a scale that simultaneously measures generalized pliance and tracking with more focus on actions in daily situations. The so-called Generalized Pliance and Tracking 2-way Scale: GPT-2s comprises 16 items (8 items each for generalized pliance and tracking). In Study 1, an online survey was conducted among 1500 Japanese individuals (420 men, 1054 women, 26 others [mean age = 29.47 years, <em>SD</em> = 10.89]). We confirmed no violation of unidimensionality in the generalized pliance and generalized tracking factors by item response theory. Internal consistency was measured with Cronbach’s α =.80 for the generalized pliance factor and .84 for the tracking factor. Test–retest reliability was also assessed with intraclass correlation (1,1) = .61, 95 % CI [.55, .67] for generalized pliance and intraclass correlation (1,1) = .56, 95 % CI [.49, .62] for tracking. Regarding convergent validity, the generalized pliance score had a moderately negative correlation with the autonomy factor on the psychological well-being scale (<em>r</em> = −.42). Conversely, the generalized tracking score had moderately positive correlations with the clarification of value and commitment (<em>r</em> = .43) and the overall psychological well-being scale score (<em>r</em> = .48). Furthermore, generalized tracking scores were higher in the healthy group. In Study 2, generalized pliance score showed positive correlation with the Generalized Pliance Questionnaire (<em>r</em> = .43) and generalized tracking score showed positive correlation with the Generalized Tracking Questionnaire (<em>r</em> = .54). Finally, we discussed the usefulness and limitations of the GPT-2s.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100931"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145118890","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-10-13DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100955
Marlene Paulo , Paula Vagos , Diana Ribeiro da Silva , Paula Castilho , Juliana Soares , Rúben Sousa , Fynnja Hellmig , Daniel Rijo
Working with youth placed at juvenile detention facilities is considered a demanding and challenging job. Research shows that professional caregivers responsible for these youth are more prone to burnout syndrome and other related psychopathological symptoms. Still, while there is encouraging evidence about using compassion-based interventions or mindfulness strategies to tackle those difficulties with professional caregivers from different settings, little is known about those interventions’ effects among professional caregivers of juvenile detention facilities. To overcome this gap, this pilot mixed-method study aimed to assess the impact of an adapted version of the Mindful Self-Compassion program among professionals working in Portuguese juvenile detention facilities (MSC_JFD). A Treatment Group (TG; n=14) and a Waitlist Control Group (WCG; n=18) were assessed at baseline and posttreatment with self-report measures on self-compassion, mindfulness, fears of compassion, and burnout symptoms. The TG also participated in a focus group after completing the program. Individual change scores were plotted to visualize variability in responses between participants. Quantitative data showed that, compared to WCG participants, TG participants decreased their fears of giving compassion – a pattern also reflected in the qualitative findings. No other significant between-group differences were found. However, qualitative findings suggested perceived improvements in self-compassion, mindfulness, and burnout symptoms among TG participants. These findings indicate that the adapted version of the MSC program may be a promising and useful approach to address mental health difficulties among professional caregivers of juvenile detention facilities.
{"title":"Mindful self-compassion program adapted for professional caregivers of juvenile detention facilities: A pilot mixed-method study","authors":"Marlene Paulo , Paula Vagos , Diana Ribeiro da Silva , Paula Castilho , Juliana Soares , Rúben Sousa , Fynnja Hellmig , Daniel Rijo","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100955","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100955","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Working with youth placed at juvenile detention facilities is considered a demanding and challenging job. Research shows that professional caregivers responsible for these youth are more prone to burnout syndrome and other related psychopathological symptoms. Still, while there is encouraging evidence about using compassion-based interventions or mindfulness strategies to tackle those difficulties with professional caregivers from different settings, little is known about those interventions’ effects among professional caregivers of juvenile detention facilities. To overcome this gap, this pilot mixed-method study aimed to assess the impact of an adapted version of the Mindful Self-Compassion program among professionals working in Portuguese juvenile detention facilities (MSC_JFD). A Treatment Group (TG; <em>n=</em>14) and a Waitlist Control Group (WCG; <em>n=</em>18) were assessed at baseline and posttreatment with self-report measures on self-compassion, mindfulness, fears of compassion, and burnout symptoms. The TG also participated in a focus group after completing the program. Individual change scores were plotted to visualize variability in responses between participants. Quantitative data showed that, compared to WCG participants, TG participants decreased their fears of giving compassion – a pattern also reflected in the qualitative findings. No other significant between-group differences were found. However, qualitative findings suggested perceived improvements in self-compassion, mindfulness, and burnout symptoms among TG participants. These findings indicate that the adapted version of the MSC program may be a promising and useful approach to address mental health difficulties among professional caregivers of juvenile detention facilities.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100955"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362743","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-09-07DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100942
Ty B. Aller , Heather H. Kelley , Marissa L. Donahue , Elizabeth B. Fauth
Introduction
Worldwide, over 10 million individuals are diagnosed with a dementia-related disease each year. Individuals often report increased depression and anxiety after receiving a dementia diagnosis. Third wave cognitive behavioral interventions are beneficial for improving mental health symptoms in persons without dementia. There is not, however, clear conclusions on if these interventions are feasible, acceptable, and effective for individuals with dementia.
Objectives
The aim of this preregistered study (https://osf.io/u2njw) was to review the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of third wave cognitive behavioral interventions for self-reported psychological well-being of individuals with a dementia diagnosis.
Methods
A systematic review was carried out on studies examining third-wave cognitive behavioral interventions for individuals with a dementia diagnosis published between 2012 and 2023 using APA PsycINFO, Academic Search Ultimate, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, MEDLINE, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Science Reference Center.
Results
10 studies met inclusion criteria, of which 7 were unique studies and 3 were supplemental studies using a similar dataset. Most studies took place in the United Kingdom and included varying designs (e.g., single-arm, case study, randomized control trial). A total of 229 participants were included in this review, most of which were diagnosed with either Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, mixed dementia, or dementia unspecified. Mindfulness-based interventions were most used (k = 3) and interventions were primarily delivered via group sessions. Adaptations included shortening session intensity (e.g., fewer sessions, fewer activities) and making materials more accessible (e.g., larger fonts, fewer words). The most common outcome assessed was quality of life. Results of studies were mixed; some reported improvements while others reported null or negative outcomes.
Conclusion
Third wave behavioral interventions seem to be preliminarily feasible and acceptable for individuals with dementia. The efficacy of these interventions for individuals with a dementia diagnosis is still unclear. Adaptations included basic accessibility considerations. Future research should emphasize the need for more rigorous study design, increased sample sizes, and consistency in intervention adaptations.
在世界范围内，每年有超过1000万人被诊断患有痴呆症相关疾病。在接受痴呆症诊断后，人们经常报告抑郁和焦虑增加。第三波认知行为干预有利于改善无痴呆患者的心理健康症状。然而，对于这些干预措施对痴呆症患者是否可行、可接受和有效，目前还没有明确的结论。本预注册研究（https://osf.io/u2njw）的目的是回顾第三波认知行为干预对痴呆诊断个体自我报告心理健康的可行性、可接受性和有效性。方法系统回顾2012年至2023年间发表的对痴呆患者进行第三波认知行为干预的研究，使用APA PsycINFO， Academic Search Ultimate, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition， MEDLINE, Psychology and behavioral Sciences Collection, Science Reference Center。结果10项研究符合纳入标准，其中7项为独特研究，3项为使用相似数据集的补充研究。大多数研究在英国进行，包括不同的设计（例如，单臂、病例研究、随机对照试验）。本综述共纳入229名参与者，其中大多数被诊断为阿尔茨海默病、血管性痴呆、混合性痴呆或未明确的痴呆。最常用的是基于正念的干预（k = 3），干预主要通过小组会议进行。调整包括缩短会议强度（例如，更少的会议，更少的活动）和使材料更容易获得（例如，更大的字体，更少的单词）。最常见的评估结果是生活质量。研究结果喜忧参半；一些人报告了改善，而另一些人报告了零结果或负面结果。结论第三波行为干预对痴呆患者是初步可行和可接受的。这些干预措施对痴呆患者的疗效尚不清楚。调整包括基本的可访问性考虑。未来的研究应强调需要更严格的研究设计，增加样本量，以及干预适应的一致性。
{"title":"Third wave behavioral interventions for individuals with Dementia: A systematic review","authors":"Ty B. Aller , Heather H. Kelley , Marissa L. Donahue , Elizabeth B. Fauth","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100942","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100942","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Worldwide, over 10 million individuals are diagnosed with a dementia-related disease each year. Individuals often report increased depression and anxiety after receiving a dementia diagnosis. Third wave cognitive behavioral interventions are beneficial for improving mental health symptoms in persons without dementia. There is not, however, clear conclusions on if these interventions are feasible, acceptable, and effective for individuals with dementia.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The aim of this preregistered study (<span><span>https://osf.io/u2njw</span><svg><path></path></svg></span>) was to review the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of third wave cognitive behavioral interventions for self-reported psychological well-being of individuals with a dementia diagnosis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic review was carried out on studies examining third-wave cognitive behavioral interventions for individuals with a dementia diagnosis published between 2012 and 2023 using APA PsycINFO, Academic Search Ultimate, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, MEDLINE, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Science Reference Center.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>10 studies met inclusion criteria, of which 7 were unique studies and 3 were supplemental studies using a similar dataset. Most studies took place in the United Kingdom and included varying designs (e.g., single-arm, case study, randomized control trial). A total of 229 participants were included in this review, most of which were diagnosed with either Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, mixed dementia, or dementia unspecified. Mindfulness-based interventions were most used (k = 3) and interventions were primarily delivered via group sessions. Adaptations included shortening session intensity (e.g., fewer sessions, fewer activities) and making materials more accessible (e.g., larger fonts, fewer words). The most common outcome assessed was quality of life. Results of studies were mixed; some reported improvements while others reported null or negative outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Third wave behavioral interventions seem to be preliminarily feasible and acceptable for individuals with dementia. The efficacy of these interventions for individuals with a dementia diagnosis is still unclear. Adaptations included basic accessibility considerations. Future research should emphasize the need for more rigorous study design, increased sample sizes, and consistency in intervention adaptations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100942"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145267732","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-10-01Epub Date: 2025-09-24DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100949
Kathryn Jamison , David Curran , Ross White , Victoria Samuel
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an innovative form of cognitive behavioural therapy that aims to increase psychological flexibility. Currently, challenges exist with measuring practitioners' application and understanding of ACT. A situational judgement test (SJT) offers a novel approach to assessing a practitioner's ACT consistent knowledge and how it can be applied in practice. In the current research, two consecutive studies were completed to develop and evaluate the utility of the first SJT for assessing clinicians' applied ACT knowledge. First, expert consensus via three iterative rounds of Delphi methodology was used to develop the 10-item ACT SJT: 13 panellists participated in round one, 12 in round two, and 10 in round three. Involved experts specialised in the application of ACT in clinical practice and/or research for at least five years. A second study examined the utility of the developed ACT SJT, with significant pre-post changes in ACT SJT scores following ACT training. The development of the ACT SJT has potentially important implications for both clinical and research settings. It can be used by clinicians to self-evaluate their clinical application of ACT, by trainers evaluating the effectiveness of ACT introductory training, and by researchers investigating the application of ACT-consistent knowledge.
{"title":"Applied knowledge of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Developing and assessing the utility of a Situational Judgement Test (SJT)","authors":"Kathryn Jamison , David Curran , Ross White , Victoria Samuel","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100949","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100949","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an innovative form of cognitive behavioural therapy that aims to increase psychological flexibility. Currently, challenges exist with measuring practitioners' application and understanding of ACT. A situational judgement test (SJT) offers a novel approach to assessing a practitioner's ACT consistent knowledge and how it can be applied in practice. In the current research, two consecutive studies were completed to develop and evaluate the utility of the first SJT for assessing clinicians' applied ACT knowledge. First, expert consensus via three iterative rounds of Delphi methodology was used to develop the 10-item ACT SJT: 13 panellists participated in round one, 12 in round two, and 10 in round three. Involved experts specialised in the application of ACT in clinical practice and/or research for at least five years. A second study examined the utility of the developed ACT SJT, with significant pre-post changes in ACT SJT scores following ACT training. The development of the ACT SJT has potentially important implications for both clinical and research settings. It can be used by clinicians to self-evaluate their clinical application of ACT, by trainers evaluating the effectiveness of ACT introductory training, and by researchers investigating the application of ACT-consistent knowledge.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"38 ","pages":"Article 100949"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145221516","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-01Epub Date: 2025-08-21DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100932
Greg Stynes , Alison Stapleton , Barbara Moore , Tomás Russell , Martin O'Connor , Noel Richardson , Francisco J. Ruiz , Louise McHugh
Among farmers, mental health and suicide are noted concerns in the literature. Practical barriers, stigma and shame may impede engagement with support. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy offers a means of providing support to those experiencing mental health concerns. An evaluation of a six-session, online, individually facilitated intervention with six Irish farmers (age 39–69 years) was completed using a randomized, concurrent, multiple-baseline, single-case experimental design. Additional data on various mental health variables were gathered pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at three-month follow-up. Tau-U results based on responses (84 days) were significant for psychological flexibility for three participants and for stress for one participant. Between-case standardized mean difference suggested a significant, large increase for psychological flexibility and no significant change for stress. At least three participants made reliable improvements in depression, psychological flexibility, and internal shame, with percentage improvements in positive and negative processes of change, distress, vitality, and life satisfaction. Most individuals showed no improvements for stress, anxiety, or subjective wellbeing. Burnout increased over time. While the results of the evaluation are mixed, full attendance at sessions supports the feasibility of the intervention. Recommendations for future interventions and research are outlined.
{"title":"Effectiveness of a process-based approach to farmer wellbeing: A randomized multiple baseline single-case experimental design","authors":"Greg Stynes , Alison Stapleton , Barbara Moore , Tomás Russell , Martin O'Connor , Noel Richardson , Francisco J. Ruiz , Louise McHugh","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100932","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100932","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Among farmers, mental health and suicide are noted concerns in the literature. Practical barriers, stigma and shame may impede engagement with support. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy offers a means of providing support to those experiencing mental health concerns. An evaluation of a six-session, online, individually facilitated intervention with six Irish farmers (age 39–69 years) was completed using a randomized, concurrent, multiple-baseline, single-case experimental design. Additional data on various mental health variables were gathered pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at three-month follow-up. Tau-U results based on responses (84 days) were significant for psychological flexibility for three participants and for stress for one participant. Between-case standardized mean difference suggested a significant, large increase for psychological flexibility and no significant change for stress. At least three participants made reliable improvements in depression, psychological flexibility, and internal shame, with percentage improvements in positive and negative processes of change, distress, vitality, and life satisfaction. Most individuals showed no improvements for stress, anxiety, or subjective wellbeing. Burnout increased over time. While the results of the evaluation are mixed, full attendance at sessions supports the feasibility of the intervention. Recommendations for future interventions and research are outlined.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"37 ","pages":"Article 100932"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144891952","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-01Epub Date: 2025-08-20DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100930
Melissa M. Norberg, Ronan D. King, Alexis Muller
Breaking Up with Belongings (BB) is the world's first evidence-based, self-directed online program designed to improve emotion regulation and reduce overconsumption. Although initial pilot testing resulted in promising outcomes, user responses suggested that the program could be more engaging, clearer, and relevant to consumers. The objective of this study was to examine whether co-design methodology could be used to meaningfully refine the self-guided online program, by evaluating both the changes made and the experiences of those involved. Over the course of nine months and five workshops, consumers and researchers collaboratively revised the program. The original program was refined and expanded to include simplified language, clearer and more detailed instructions and descriptions, more frequent references to the Australian context, and a new module on Waste and its Solutions. We then assessed the effectiveness of our co-design procedures by evaluating the usability and impact of program revisions, the dynamics between researchers and consumers, and consumer experiences. Consumers determined that the co-design process was effective, citing the lead researcher's expert facilitation as a key factor. This leadership fostered a collaborative and respectful environment that empowered all consumers to engage meaningfully in the procedures, processes, and outcomes. As demonstrated by this study, an iterative co-design process can generate valuable insights for intervention refinement. Consumers value their role as co-designers and respected contributors to research. By using a collaborative, grass-roots approach, researchers can ensure that their programs are clear, relevant, and engaging.
{"title":"Consumer co-design as a framework for enhancing a novel self-guided online program to reduce overconsumption","authors":"Melissa M. Norberg, Ronan D. King, Alexis Muller","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100930","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100930","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Breaking Up with Belongings</em> (BB) is the world's first evidence-based, self-directed online program designed to improve emotion regulation and reduce overconsumption. Although initial pilot testing resulted in promising outcomes, user responses suggested that the program could be more engaging, clearer, and relevant to consumers. The objective of this study was to examine whether co-design methodology could be used to meaningfully refine the self-guided online program, by evaluating both the changes made and the experiences of those involved. Over the course of nine months and five workshops, consumers and researchers collaboratively revised the program. The original program was refined and expanded to include simplified language, clearer and more detailed instructions and descriptions, more frequent references to the Australian context, and a new module on <em>Waste and its Solutions</em>. We then assessed the effectiveness of our co-design procedures by evaluating the usability and impact of program revisions, the dynamics between researchers and consumers, and consumer experiences. Consumers determined that the co-design process was effective, citing the lead researcher's expert facilitation as a key factor. This leadership fostered a collaborative and respectful environment that empowered all consumers to engage meaningfully in the procedures, processes, and outcomes. As demonstrated by this study, an iterative co-design process can generate valuable insights for intervention refinement. Consumers value their role as co-designers and respected contributors to research. By using a collaborative, grass-roots approach, researchers can ensure that their programs are clear, relevant, and engaging.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"37 ","pages":"Article 100930"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144887079","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-01Epub Date: 2025-08-12DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100929
Michael E. Levin, Mercedes G. Woolley, Emily M. Bowers, Korena S. Klimczak
Naturalistic research on “real world” usage of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) is critical for DMHIs to meet their goal of increasing access to mental health services. DMHI adherence is much lower in naturalistic settings versus controlled research, but less is known about dimensions of engagement beyond adherence to module completion or how these patterns extend to DMHIs based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This study reported the adherence and engagement patterns among 1896 university students who registered for a free ACT DMHI service deployed at a single university from 2019 to 2023. Adherence was very low with only 57 % logging into the program even once, 7 % completing half of modules, and 3 % completing the entire program. However, engagement was high among students who adhered to a given module as indicated by high rates of module exercise completion, at least partial homework completion, spending at least 10 min per module, and program satisfaction. Predictors of higher adherence included higher engagement, being older, and lower depression and anxiety. Overall, results add to research highlighting adherence challenges when deploying DMHIs as services outside of controlled research, which are potentially worsened with successful efforts to increase enrollment and reduce barriers such as cost. At the same time, the findings highlight how a subset of individuals adhere to and engage in DMHIs in a way that is likely to provide benefits.
{"title":"Naturalistic observation of adherence and engagement with a university-wide deployment of digital acceptance and commitment therapy","authors":"Michael E. Levin, Mercedes G. Woolley, Emily M. Bowers, Korena S. Klimczak","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100929","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100929","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Naturalistic research on “real world” usage of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) is critical for DMHIs to meet their goal of increasing access to mental health services. DMHI adherence is much lower in naturalistic settings versus controlled research, but less is known about dimensions of engagement beyond adherence to module completion or how these patterns extend to DMHIs based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This study reported the adherence and engagement patterns among 1896 university students who registered for a free ACT DMHI service deployed at a single university from 2019 to 2023. Adherence was very low with only 57 % logging into the program even once, 7 % completing half of modules, and 3 % completing the entire program. However, engagement was high among students who adhered to a given module as indicated by high rates of module exercise completion, at least partial homework completion, spending at least 10 min per module, and program satisfaction. Predictors of higher adherence included higher engagement, being older, and lower depression and anxiety. Overall, results add to research highlighting adherence challenges when deploying DMHIs as services outside of controlled research, which are potentially worsened with successful efforts to increase enrollment and reduce barriers such as cost. At the same time, the findings highlight how a subset of individuals adhere to and engage in DMHIs in a way that is likely to provide benefits.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"37 ","pages":"Article 100929"},"PeriodicalIF":3.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144903096","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-01DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100922
Korena S. Klimczak, Michael P. Twohig, Gretchen G. Peacock, Michael E. Levin
Background
Coaching is a well-supported intervention for improving adherence to online mental health programs. It is currently unclear whether peer-support coaching improves mental health outcomes solely through improving program adherence, or if it can also have a direct impact on mental health. We investigated this using a randomized controlled trial and applying serial mediation models.
Method
A total of 230 college students were instructed to use the 12-session ACT Guide program over 10 weeks. They were randomly assigned to additionally receive either peer-support coaching over weekly phone calls, text message conversations, or a no-coaching control group. Coaching followed a standardized protocol.
Results
Phone coaching had a significant total effect, but not a direct effect, on psychological distress. Both the phone coaching → psychological flexibility → distress, and the phone coaching → program adherence → psychological flexibility → distress indirect pathways were significant. Text coaching had a significant total and direct effect on psychological distress. The full serial pathway was the only significant indirect effect (text coaching → program adherence → psychological flexibility → distress).
Conclusions
We found that peer coaching in both formats significantly increased program adherence, which in turn improved psychological flexibility, consequently reducing psychological distress. Coaching through phone calls had a significantly greater indirect effect on distress and direct effect on program adherence in comparison to the text message format. It is possible that the skills review and ACT-based strategies used in phone coaching directly improve psychological flexibility regardless of the number of modules completed, with text coaching being too brief to elicit this same effect.
{"title":"Mechanisms of change in peer coaching for digital ACT: A serial mediation model on program adherence and psychological flexibility's role in reducing distress","authors":"Korena S. Klimczak, Michael P. Twohig, Gretchen G. Peacock, Michael E. Levin","doi":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100922","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jcbs.2025.100922","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Coaching is a well-supported intervention for improving adherence to online mental health programs. It is currently unclear whether peer-support coaching improves mental health outcomes solely through improving program adherence, or if it can also have a direct impact on mental health. We investigated this using a randomized controlled trial and applying serial mediation models.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A total of 230 college students were instructed to use the 12-session ACT Guide program over 10 weeks. They were randomly assigned to additionally receive either peer-support coaching over weekly phone calls, text message conversations, or a no-coaching control group. Coaching followed a standardized protocol.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Phone coaching had a significant total effect, but not a direct effect, on psychological distress. Both the phone coaching → psychological flexibility → distress, and the phone coaching → program adherence → psychological flexibility → distress indirect pathways were significant. Text coaching had a significant total and direct effect on psychological distress. The full serial pathway was the only significant indirect effect (text coaching → program adherence → psychological flexibility → distress).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>We found that peer coaching in both formats significantly increased program adherence, which in turn improved psychological flexibility, consequently reducing psychological distress. Coaching through phone calls had a significantly greater indirect effect on distress and direct effect on program adherence in comparison to the text message format. It is possible that the skills review and ACT-based strategies used in phone coaching directly improve psychological flexibility regardless of the number of modules completed, with text coaching being too brief to elicit this same effect.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":47544,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science","volume":"37 ","pages":"Article 100922"},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144570442","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"心理学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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