Cognitive Training for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Effects on Cognitive, Emotional, and Brain Function

University of Missouri, Kansas City

Status: Unknown

Conditions: Posttraumatic Stress Disorders

Treatments: Behavioral: Executive function training

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT01644851

UMKC SS11-212e

Details and patient eligibility

About

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the effects of computer-based training in executive functioning compared to word games on cognitive and emotional aspects of combat-related PTSD.

Full description

Many posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients either choose not to complete or do not achieve optimal response to current first-line behavioral and pharmacologic treatments. Neurocognitive research points to the potential of novel treatments targeting dorsal prefrontal function and inhibition, attention, and working memory processes. This study investigates effects of computer-based training in executive functions compared to word games on cognitive and emotional aspects of combat-related PTSD. Paper-and-pencil questionnaires, interviews, computer-administered testing, and magnetic resonance imaging will be complete before and after the intervention. Results from this pilot study will provide information concerning feasibility and treatment potential of cognitive training for PTSD.

Enrollment: 40 estimated patients

Sex: Male

Ages: 18 to 45 years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• combat veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, or Operation New Dawn

Exclusion criteria

• enrolled in other active treatment protocols
• current substance abuse or dependence
• current suicidal ideation
• diagnosis of a neurological disorder
• history of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury

Trial design

Primary purpose: Treatment

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: Single Blind

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40 participants in 2 patient groups, including a placebo group

Executive function training

Experimental group

Description:

Executive function training

Treatment:

Behavioral: Executive function training

Word game training

Placebo Comparator group

Description:

Computer-based training in tasks related to verbal processing.