Computerized Intervention for Loneliness

Computerized Intervention for Loneliness

This study assesses whether a month long computerized interpretation bias modification intervention will reduce levels of loneliness compared to a control treatment.

This study hopes to assess whether a month long interpretation bias modification intervention will reduce levels of loneliness compared to a control treatment. Participants will be randomized into an active treatment condition or a control treatment that involves a healthy living and relaxation protocol. The investigators hypothesize that participants in the IBM condition will have lower levels of negative interpretation bias and loneliness than those in the healthy habits condition at post treatment and follow up. The investigators further hypothesize that the effects of IBM on loneliness will be accounted for by changes in interpretation bias.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Score of >48 on the UCLA Loneliness Scale

Exclusion Criteria:

• Concurrent psychotherapy for social anxiety or depression
• Unstable psychotropic medication status (i.e. a change within the last month)
• History of psychotic or (hypo)manic symptoms
• Alcohol or other substance abuse or dependence within the last three months
• Previous participation in a similar IBM study