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Technology

Qualitative study of Black adults’ experience with an interpretation bias modification app

(PS10-A1) Qualitative Study of Black Adults’ Experience with an Interpretation Bias Modification App

Saturday, November 18, 2023
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PST
Location: Regency Ballroom, Level 7
Interpretation bias is the inclination to interpret ambiguous situations negatively (Beard & Amir, 2009). Research has demonstrated that interpretation bias is implicated in a variety of anxiety disorders, and targeting interpretation bias in treatment has proven effective in ameliorating symptoms (Chen et al., 2020). Thus, digital interventions targeting interpretation bias (e.g., Beard et al., 2021; Ji et al., 2021; Weisberg et al., 2021) have the potential to increase access to treatment. Although these digital interventions have shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms (e.g., Ji et al., 2021), most studies have included primarily non-Hispanic White participants. Black people are underserved and have been historically excluded in both research and practice in psychology. Interpretation bias interventions include ambiguous situations relevant to anxiety (e.g., workplace interactions), and it is unclear whether Black participants may have thoughts related to racism while using these programs. To date, no studies have examined Black participants’ experiences with this type of intervention and whether they are associated with any adverse outcomes. The current project sought to address this critical gap in knowledge by conducting a pilot study of HabitWorks – a personalized smartphone app targeting interpretation bias - in a sample of Black individuals. Participants (n=14) used HabitWorks for a month and then completed a qualitative interview about their experience. Participants were asked if using the app brought up any thoughts about discrimination or microaggressions in their lives. Preliminary rapid coding highlighted that despite researcher concerns, Black users did not feel that the interpretation bias training evoked thoughts related to racism. Users reported finding the app user-friendly, helpful, and relevant to their daily lives. Many asked if they could continue using the app after the study’s completion. The full qualitative analysis will be prepared for presentation. These findings suggest that HabitWorks may be acceptable and relevant to Black users and support a future larger-scale effectiveness trial. This type of intervention holds promise as a means to increase access to evidence-based treatments that overcome current barriers (e.g., lack of Black providers, cost).