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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Targeting the reconsolidation of traumatic memories with a brief 2-session imaginal exposure intervention in post-traumatic stress disorder

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Author(s):
Vermes, Joana Singer [1, 2] ; Ayres, Ricardo [1] ; Goes, Adara Saito [1] ; Del Real, Natalia [1] ; Araujo, Alvaro Cabral [1] ; Schiller, Daniela [3] ; Lotufo Neto, Francisco [1] ; Corchs, Felipe [1, 2]
Total Authors: 8
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst & Dept Psychiat, R Dr Ovidio Pires Campos, 785 IPq HC FMUSP, BR-05403010 Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
[2] Paradigma Ctr Behav Anal, Rua Vanderlei 611, BR-04590000 Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
[3] Icahn Sch Med Mt Sinai, Gustave L Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029 - USA
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Journal article
Source: Journal of Affective Disorders; v. 276, p. 487-494, NOV 1 2020.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Background: Evidence suggests that extinction during memory reconsolidation diminishes the return of defensive responses. In order to translate these effects to the clinical setting, we tested whether retrieving a traumatic memory and delivering a brief two-sessions imaginal exposure intervention during its reconsolidation would produce stronger decreases in reactivity to these memories than standard imaginal exposure method. Methods: Participants with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) had either their traumatic (n = 21) or a neutral (n = 21) memory retrieved 1 h before an imaginal exposure session for two consecutive days. One day before and one day after, participants were exposed to script-driven imagery of their traumatic event, during which skin conductance responses were measured and, immediately after, subjective responses were assessed by means of Visual Analogue Scales. Results: Traumatic retrieval improved the physiological, but not the subjective effects of imaginal exposure intervention on over-reactivity to traumatic memories. Conclusions: Our results suggest that delivering extinction-based treatments over the reconsolidation of traumatic memories may enhance its effects. These results suggest that this is a promising path toward the development of new therapeutic techniques. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 14/04810-0 - New strategies to change traumatic memories
Grantee:Felipe D Alessandro Ferreira Corchs
Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants