A Brief Cognitive Intervention After Intrusive Memories of Trauma With Young Refugees

Intrusive Memories of Trauma Experienced by Young Refugees: Using Single Case Experimental Design to Investigate a Brief Cognitive Intervention Involving Computer Gameplay

This research study is designed to investigate the use of a simple cognitive task (a memory cue and 10 minute time gap, followed by playing the computer game "Tetris") for decreasing the number of intrusive memories of trauma among young refugees and asylum seekers. The design is a single case experimental AB design with or without optional replication (ABAB). Participants will aim to complete a no-intervention phase ('A': baseline phase) of one week followed by a one-week intervention phase ('B'), including a one-session intervention with a researcher comprising the simple cognitive task, followed by instructions to continue to use the technique self-guided in the subsequent week. Follow ups are conducted after each week to monitor the occurrence of intrusive memories of trauma in a pen-and-paper diary. It is predicted that participants will report fewer intrusive memories during the intervention phase than during the preceding baseline phase.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Refugee or asylum seeker
• Experiencing intrusive memories of trauma
• Have access to a smartphone
• Able to speak or read the study material in Swedish, English or Arabic
• Able to attend three meetings with a researcher

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exhibit psychotic symptoms or other symptoms of severe mental illness