Evaluating the Efficacy of Culturally Adapted iCT-SAD

Evaluating the Efficacy of Culturally Adapted Internet-Delivered Cognitive Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder (iCT-SAD) in Pakistan

The study will adapt and implement a Pakistani version of Internet-delivered Cognitive Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder (iCT-SAD), assessing its effectiveness in reducing social anxiety symptoms among Pakistani individuals.

The study will adapt and implement a Pakistani version of Internet-delivered Cognitive Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder (iCT-SAD), assessing its effectiveness in reducing social anxiety symptoms among Pakistani individuals. This randomized controlled trial will involve culturally tailored online therapy modules, therapist support, and regular progress assessments. The goal is to evaluate the efficacy of iCT-SAD in a Pakistani context, comparing outcomes to a control group. The primary outcome measure is the self-report Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, and secondary outcomes include other measures of social anxiety symptoms and processes, general mood and functioning, and response to treatment

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary diagnosis of SAD based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)
• Aged 18-75 years
• Regular, access to an appropriate internet device
• Resident of Pakistan and can write and speak Urdu
• Participants not currently undertaking other structured psychological therapy during the trial

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current psychosis, bipolar disorder, antisocial personality disorder, or alcohol/substance use disorder
• Active suicidal ideation with intent or plan
• Previously received CT or cognitive behavioral therapy for SAD