This randomized, single-blind trial tests whether one session of interpretation bias modification reduces immediate social-evaluative anxiety and shifts interpretation bias in Pakistani university students aged 18 to 25 years with elevated social anxiety. Participants are assigned to either feedback-contingent interpretation bias modification or a structurally matched interpretation control condition. Primary and secondary outcomes are assessed before and after the intervention session using short-form state-trait anxiety measures and Word-Sentence Association Paradigm endorsement indices.
age 18 to 25 years
Social Phobia Inventory score greater than 19
at least moderate severity on the DSM-5-TR Severity Measure for Social Anxiety Disorder-Adult
able to read study materials
clinically elevated depressive symptoms on Beck Depression Inventory-II at or above prespecified cutoff [above 16]
clinically elevated general anxiety symptoms on the Beck Anxiety Inventory at or above prespecified cutoff [ above 20]
current medical or psychiatric condition likely to interfere with safe or valid participation
prior participation in this trial.
Ather Mujitaba
Lead sponsor
University of Gujrat
Sponsor institution