Medical College of Wisconsin
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A randomized controlled trial of an online, modular, active learning training program for behavioral activation for depression. J Consult Clin Psychol 2017 Aug;85(8):814-825

Date

07/21/2017

Pubmed ID

28726481

DOI

10.1037/ccp0000223

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-85025089501 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   23 Citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This randomized-controlled trial assessed the efficacy of a trainer-led, active-learning, modular, online behavioral activation (BA) training program compared with a self-paced online BA training with the same modular content.

METHOD: Seventy-seven graduate students (M = 30.3 years, SD = 6.09; 76.6% female) in mental health training programs were randomly assigned to receive either the trainer-led or self-paced BA training. Both trainings consisted of 4 weekly sessions covering 4 core BA strategies. Primary outcomes were changes in BA skills as measured by an objective role-play assessment and self-reported use of BA strategies. Assessments were conducted at pre-, post-, and 6-weeks after training. A series of longitudinal mixed effect models assessed changes in BA skills and a longitudinal model implemented with generalized estimating equations assessed BA use over time.

RESULTS: Significantly greater increases in total BA skills were found in the trainer-led training condition. The trainer-led training condition also showed greater increases in all core BA skills either at posttraining, follow-up, or both. Reported use of BA strategies with actual clients increased significantly from pre- to posttraining and maintained at follow-up in both training conditions.

CONCLUSIONS: This trial adds to the literature on the efficacy of online training as a method to disseminate BA. Online training with an active learning, modular approach may be a promising and accessible implementation strategy. Additional strategies may need to be paired with the online BA training to assure the long-term implementation and sustainability of BA in clinical practice. (PsycINFO Database Record

Author List

Puspitasari AJ, Kanter JW, Busch AM, Leonard R, Dunsiger S, Cahill S, Martell C, Koerner K

Author

Ajeng Puspitasari PhD Assistant Professor in the Surgery department at Medical College of Wisconsin




MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Behavior Therapy
Depressive Disorder
Female
Humans
Internet
Male
Students
Therapy, Computer-Assisted
Treatment Outcome
Young Adult