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Müller CL, Jelinek L, Schmidt AF, Mannsfeld AK, Miegel F, Cludius B. Mediation analyses of longitudinal data investigating temporal associations between inflated sense of responsibility, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and anger suppression. J Clin Psychol 2024. [PMID: 38932513 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive theories emphasize the central role of anger and anger suppression in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). According to these theories, anger suppression is seen as a consequence of OCD, whereas cognitive beliefs, such as an inflated sense of responsibility, are seen as antecedent factors. To extend the findings from cross-sectional studies, the current study investigated the temporal associations between OCD symptoms, an inflated sense of responsibility, and anger suppression. Consistent with cognitive considerations, we hypothesized that OCD symptoms mediate the association between feelings of responsibility and anger suppression. These associations were also explored in patients presenting particularly high checking-related symptoms. Further, the stability of effects beyond controlling for depressive symptoms and medication intake was explored. METHODS A total of N = 48 patients with OCD (50% female, M = 32.46 [SD = 10.63] years of age) completed measures on obsessive beliefs, OCD symptoms, and anger suppression at three assessment points: before and after a metacognitive intervention as well as at a follow-up 6 months later. Mediation models investigating symptom associations at these three timepoints were conducted. Exploratory analyses investigating these associations in individuals presenting high checking-related symptoms (n = 20) and testing the stability of effects beyond controlling for depressive symptoms and medication intake were conducted. RESULTS The sense of responsibility did not significantly predict the level of anger suppression. A temporal association between OCD symptoms (as assessed with the self-report measure) and anger suppression could be evidenced, which was stable beyond controlling for depressive symptoms and medication intake. Against the expectations based on cognitive theories, the sense of responsibility did not predict OCD symptoms. No mediating effect of OCD symptoms was found. CONCLUSION In line with cognitive viewpoints, the present study shows that higher OCD symptoms predict higher levels of anger suppression in a longitudinal design, thereby contributing to the suppression of anger. This effect seems to be independent from depressive symptoms and medication intake. The effect of sense of responsibility on OCD symptoms was less clear and could only be found in the subgroup of patients with OCD and checking-related symptoms, who generally presented higher levels of responsibility. Overall, this is the first study demonstrating temporal associations between OCD symptoms and anger suppression. Acknowledging that anger and anger suppression may be a consequence of OCD symptoms and may also affect aspects of psychotherapy, which can ultimately inform future adjustments to psychotherapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celina L Müller
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lena Jelinek
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander F Schmidt
- Institute of Psychology, Social and Legal Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anna K Mannsfeld
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Franziska Miegel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Cludius
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy of Adulthood, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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Miegel F, Rubel J, Ching THW, Yassari AH, Bohnsack F, Duwe M, Jelinek L. How to assess and analyse session-specific effects and predictors: An example with the Metacognitive Training for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder intervention. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:1158-1169. [PMID: 37288873 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
It is essential to understand the effects of specific therapy elements (i.e., mechanisms of change) to optimize the efficacy of available treatments. There are, however, existing challenges in the assessment and analysis of constructs of interest. The present study aims to improve research on the effects of specific therapy elements using the example of the Metacognitive Training for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (MCT-OCD) intervention. Specifically, we introduce an innovative analytical method to identify predictors of treatment outcome and expand the assessment of common factors (e.g., coping expectations). A sample of 50 day- and inpatients with OCD was assessed before and after participation in an 8-week MCT-OCD programme. We investigated within-session change in scores on revised questionnaires administered before and after each session. Linear mixed models (for session-effects) and lasso regression (for prediction analyses) were used to analyse data. The revised assessments and data analyses showed greater improvement in dysfunctional (meta-)cognitive beliefs over the time of the intervention and within sessions compared to previous MCT-OCD studies. Some predictors, for example, improvement in coping expectation after the module on overestimation of threat for treatment outcome, were identified. The present study contributed to a better understanding of how to assess and analyse data of a modular intervention and demonstrated the strengths and weaknesses of different analytic approaches. Moreover, the analyses provided a deeper understanding of the specific effects and mechanisms of change of MCT-OCD modules, which can be refined and examined in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Miegel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Rubel
- Department of Psychology and Sports Science, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Terence H W Ching
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amir-H Yassari
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frances Bohnsack
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maren Duwe
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lena Jelinek
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Claus N, Miegel F, Jelinek L, Landmann S, Moritz S, Külz AK, Rubel J, Cludius B. Perfectionism as Possible Predictor for Treatment Success in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Metacognitive Training as Third-Wave Treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-023-10361-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Identifying predictors of treatment outcome can guide treatment selection and optimize use of resources. In patients affected by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), perfectionism has emerged as one possible predictor, with some data suggesting that cognitive-behavioral therapy outcomes are poorer for more perfectionistic patients. Findings so far are inconsistent, however, and research has yet to be extended to newer treatment approaches.
Methods
We administered measures of concern over mistakes, clinical perfectionism, as well as OCD and depression symptom severity to a sample of OCD patients in out-patient group treatments (N = 61), namely, metacognitive training (MCT-OCD) or mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for OCD. Hierarchical data over time was submitted to multi-level analysis.
Results
Neither concern over mistakes nor clinical perfectionism at baseline predicted OCD symptoms across time points. However, concern over mistakes at baseline did significantly predict comorbid depressive symptoms. Furthermore, exploratory analysis revealed change in clinical perfectionism during treatment as a predictor of OCD symptoms at follow-up.
Conclusion
These results suggest that initial concern over mistakes may not prevent patients with OCD from benefitting from third-wave treatments. Change in clinical perfectionism may present a putative process of therapeutic change. Limitations and avenues for future research are discussed.
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Group Metacognitive Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in a Routine Clinical Setting: An Open Trial. BEHAVIOUR CHANGE 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/bec.2022.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often a chronic disorder characterised by uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions), and/or behaviours (compulsions). Accumulating evidence suggests that metacognitive beliefs may underlie many of the processes implicated in the formation and perpetuation of OCD. Metacognitive therapy (MCT) for OCD aims to modify these maladaptive metacognitive beliefs and processes to treat this debilitating disorder. The current study examines the outcome of a pilot trial of MCT for OCD in 26 (17 females; 9 males) adults (18–64 years) referred to a specialist outpatient service. Results were promising, with significant decreases in OCD and depression symptoms, which were maintained at the 3-month follow-up. The improvement in Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale scores between pre-treatment and follow-up in the completer sample (n=22) was large (d=1.29), and comparable to outcomes of well-established treatments. These encouraging results add to early empirical support for the effectiveness of group MCT as an OCD treatment alternative, as well as reinforcing the role of metacognitions contributing to this disorder.
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Seow TXF, Rouault M, Gillan CM, Fleming SM. How Local and Global Metacognition Shape Mental Health. Biol Psychiatry 2021; 90:436-446. [PMID: 34334187 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Metacognition is the ability to reflect on our own cognition and mental states. It is a critical aspect of human subjective experience and operates across many hierarchical levels of abstraction-encompassing local confidence in isolated decisions and global self-beliefs about our abilities and skills. Alterations in metacognition are considered foundational to neurologic and psychiatric disorders, but research has mostly focused on local metacognitive computations, missing out on the role of global aspects of metacognition. Here, we first review current behavioral and neural metrics of local metacognition that lay the foundation for this research. We then address the neurocognitive underpinnings of global metacognition uncovered by recent studies. Finally, we outline a theoretical framework in which higher hierarchical levels of metacognition may help identify the role of maladaptive metacognitive evaluation in mental health conditions, particularly when combined with transdiagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tricia X F Seow
- Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Marion Rouault
- Institut Jean Nicod, Département d'études cognitives, PSL Research University, Paris, France; Laboratoire de neurosciences cognitives et computationnelles, Département d'études cognitives, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
| | - Claire M Gillan
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen M Fleming
- Max Planck UCL Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Experimental Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Hollmann K, Allgaier K, Hohnecker CS, Lautenbacher H, Bizu V, Nickola M, Wewetzer G, Wewetzer C, Ivarsson T, Skokauskas N, Wolters LH, Skarphedinsson G, Weidle B, de Haan E, Torp NC, Compton SN, Calvo R, Lera-Miguel S, Haigis A, Renner TJ, Conzelmann A. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in children and adolescents with obsessive compulsive disorder: a feasibility study. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:1445-1459. [PMID: 34432173 PMCID: PMC8386338 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02409-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first choice of treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents. However, there is often a lack of access to appropriate treatment close to the home of the patients. An internet-based CBT via videoconferencing could facilitate access to state-of-the-art treatment even in remote areas. The aim of this study was to investigate feasibility and acceptability of this telemedical approach. A total of nine children received 14 sessions of CBT. The first session took place face-to-face, the remaining 13 sessions via videoconference. OCD symptoms were recorded with a smartphone app and therapy materials were made accessible in a data cloud. We assessed diagnostic data before and after treatment and obtained measures to feasibility, treatment satisfaction and acceptability. Outcomes showed high acceptance and satisfaction on the part of patients with online treatment (89%) and that face-to-face therapy was not preferred over an internet-based approach (67%). The majority of patients and their parents classified the quality of treatment as high. They emphasized the usefulness of exposures with response prevention (E/RP) in triggering situations at home. The app itself was rated as easy to operate and useful. In addition to feasibility, a significant decrease in obsessive–compulsive symptoms was also achieved. Internet-based CBT for pediatric OCD is feasible and well received by the patients and their parents. Furthermore, obsessive–compulsive symptomatology decreased in all patients. The results of this study are encouraging and suggest the significance of further research regarding this technology-supported approach, with a specific focus on efficacy. Trial registration number: Clinical trials AZ53-5400.1-004/44.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Hollmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Allgaier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Carolin S Hohnecker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Verena Bizu
- Section for Information Technology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Gunilla Wewetzer
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Clinics of the City of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Wewetzer
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Clinics of the City of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tord Ivarsson
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Norbert Skokauskas
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lidewij H Wolters
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Bernhard Weidle
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Else de Haan
- Academic Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nor Christan Torp
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Eastern and Southern, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo, Norway.,Division of Mental Health Services, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | | | - Rosa Calvo
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Lera-Miguel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERSAM, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Haigis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tobias J Renner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Annette Conzelmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany. .,Department of Psychology (Clinical Psychology II), PFH-Private University of Applied Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
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