Internet-Based EMDR Flash Intervention for Test Anxiety in University Students

Examining the Effect of Internet-Based EMDR Flash Intervention (SKY-Flash) on University Students' Test Anxiety Levels and User Experiences

The aim of this study is to investigate whether an Internet-based EMDR Flash intervention can help reduce exam anxiety among university students. Participants will utilize the online SKY-Flash program and report their levels of exam anxiety at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up assessments. In addition, the study will collect feedback regarding participants' overall experiences with the program. The primary objective is to determine whether SKY-Flash constitutes a practical and effective approach to reducing exam anxiety among students, while also exploring their perceptions of the intervention.

Test anxiety is a common problem among university students, often linked to academic pressure, limited access to professional support, and stigma around seeking help. Students with high levels of test anxiety may experience stress, concentration problems, and reduced academic performance. While face-to-face psychological interventions can be effective, many students cannot benefit from them due to financial, logistical, or accessibility barriers.

This study introduces SKY-Flash, an internet-based version of the EMDR Flash technique. The program was designed as a self-help intervention that students can use independently, without therapist guidance. The aim is to reduce test anxiety and improve psychological well-being by adapting EMDR Flash procedures into an online format that is accessible, private, and user-friendly.

The research will be conducted as a randomized controlled trial with two groups: an intervention group and a wait-list control group. A total of 168 university students will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of the groups. Participants in the intervention group will complete a six-module online program based on EMDR Flash principles. The modules include interactive exercises, multimedia elements, and gamification features to support engagement and reduce dropout. The control group will not receive any intervention during the study period but will gain access to the program after follow-up assessments.

Data will be collected at three time points: pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up. Primary outcomes will be test anxiety, measured by the Westside Test Anxiety Scale. Secondary outcomes will include psychological well-being and usability feedback. In addition, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with a subgroup of participants to gather in-depth information about usability and user experience.

The study is expected to show whether an online EMDR Flash intervention can effectively reduce test anxiety and improve well-being in university students. If effective, SKY-Flash may serve as a scalable, cost-effective, and stigma-free resource for students who struggle with test anxiety and have limited access to psychological services.

Inclusion Criteria:

Voluntary participation in the study Being older than 18 years and currently enrolled as a university student Having a valid e-mail address Having internet access (computer or mobile device) Scoring above the average on the Test Anxiety Scale Scoring below 15 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), based on established cutoff points

Exclusion Criteria:

Currently receiving psychological help from a psychologist, counselor, or psychiatrist Having any diagnosed psychiatric disorder