Physiological changes over the course of cognitive bias modification for social anxiety

Social anxiety disorder affects approximately 7% of the adult population in the U.S., yet a vast majority of these individuals do not seek treatment. Thus, it is critical to examine models that deliver treatment to them. Computerized Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) training programs can be effective in targeting interpretation bias, a key cognitive mechanism underlying social anxiety, and have potential for widespread dissemination, especially if they can be delivered via smart phones, which are becoming ubiquitous. However, the efficacy of CBM interpretation training paradigms that are adapted to and delivered via smart phones remains unknown. We present a pilot study to investigate if physiologic data can be used to track the changes over a smartphone-based CBM intervention for social anxiety. In a 3-week open trial, pilot study involving 20 high socially anxious participants, self-report affect ratings, heart rate and accelerometer data were collected using a smartphone and smartwatch before, after, and during the CBM intervention. The study focused on the relationship between accelerometer and heart rate to track change following the intervention. Results provide preliminary evidence for the viability of using physiological data to identify the change in mental state influenced by CBM interventions.