Interpretation Bias Modification Training for Adults with Histories of Childhood Abuse

Background: This study evaluated the effectiveness of Interpretation Bias Modification Training (IBMT) designed to reduce interpretation bias and psychopathology in individuals with a history of childhood abuse and examined potential mechanisms of change, including the added value of psychoeducation.Methods: In this three-arm randomized controlled trial (N=35), participants aged 19~25 years were assigned to receive IBMT, IBMT plus psychoeducation, or an active placebo control.Results: IBMT significantly reduced the tendency to interpret ambiguous facial expressions as anger and decreased psychopathological symptoms, including anxiety, interpersonal sensitivity, and hostility. These improvements were maintained at a 2-week follow-up. Reductions in interpretation bias and negative affect were associated with decreases in psychopathology, supporting their role as potential mechanisms underlying the effects of IBMT. In contrast, psychoeducation did not confer incremental benefits.Conclusions: These findings suggest that IBMT may be an effective cognitive intervention for individuals with a history of childhood abuse by directly targeting maladaptive interpretation processes.