Can mental imagery boost the effect of the positive cognitive bias modification of interpretation (CBM-I) on interpretation bias and memory bias?

Background and objectives

Cognitive bias modification of interpretation (CBM-I) has been widely used and yielded mixed results. This experiment explored the unique role of mental imagery in positive CBM-I.

Methods

60 participants (M = 23.13, SD = 1.04) were randomly assigned to a imagery-based positive CBM-I group (imagery group) and a conventional verbal-based positive CBM-I group (control group). The imagery group received additional practice in generating mental imagery and were instructed to fully focus on the imagery during the formal training. The dependent variables included interpretation bias (probe latencies and similarity ratings for recognition task), memory bias, and intrusive memory.

Results

(1) For the positive probe scenario, the reaction time of the two groups was shorter in the posterior five blocks than the anterior five blocks. However, the difference in latency between pre- and post- training for the imagery group was larger than that of the control group; (2) For the recognition task, the positive target statement score was significantly higher, while the negative one was significantly lower for the imagery group than that of the control group (3) The imagery group (vs. control); showed more beneficial effects on memory bias.

Limitations

The limitations consisted of the difference in time of the manipulation between the two groups, the richness of the imagery operationalization, generalizability, and the lack of pre-manipulation of interpretation bias assessments.

Conclusions

The imagery-based CBM-I led to more positive interpretation biases, less negative interpretations, and more positive memory biases, indicating that mental imagery can boost the effect of the positive CBM-I.