Computer exercises to strengthen thinking control and reduce worry
Enhancing transdiagnostic mechanisms of cognitive dyscontrol using computer-based training
Short computer exercises designed to boost mental control and reduce repetitive negative thoughts in adults with depression, anxiety, or traumatic stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175962 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would do brief computer-based training tasks aimed at improving executive functions like attention and stopping intrusive thoughts. The researchers will test different doses (how often and how long you train) and use behavioral tests plus brain measures to find the best schedule. If training improves thinking control, they will look at whether those changes lead to fewer repetitive negative thoughts and lower mood or anxiety symptoms. The long-term aim is a practical cognitive training people can use alongside other treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults aged 21 and older with mood, anxiety, or traumatic stress disorders who experience repetitive negative thinking are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those without mood/anxiety/traumatic stress conditions, individuals without executive function difficulties, or those unable to use computer-based tools may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer an accessible program to help people gain better control over unwanted thoughts and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Prior computer-based cognitive trainings have sometimes improved task-based thinking skills but have shown mixed results in reducing clinical symptoms, so this approach is promising but still experimental.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bomyea, Jessica — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Bomyea, Jessica
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.