We investigated the effects of two novel treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The first treatment is Attentional Bias Modification (ABM). This treatment for anxiety disorders has... Show moreWe investigated the effects of two novel treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The first treatment is Attentional Bias Modification (ABM). This treatment for anxiety disorders has become quite popular in a relatively short time and was featured in recent articles in the New York Times and The Economist. ABM is a brief, computerized treatment in which patients are trained to keep their attention away from the threatening stimuli from which they automatically attend. Since attentional bias (AB) is considered an important feature of PTSD, we tested ABM in a randomized controlled trial. ABM did not effect PTSD, nor did it change AB. We also investigated an individualized version of ABM in a case series and saw no therapeutic effects. Since the current popularity of ABM is based on smaller studies than our RCT, dissemination efforts may have to be reconsidered. Next, we explored the usefulness of a 8-week course of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in a pilot study with patients with chronic PTSD. No adverse effects were observed and patients evaluated the course positively. About half of the patients who finished MBCT demonstrated positive clinical effects. However, considering the early dropout rate, different formats may have to be developed to increase its acceptability in this group. Show less
