RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06094933

Mobile Anger Reduction Intervention

A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Mobile Anger Reduction Intervention for Veterans

Sponsor

VA Office of Research and Development

Enrollment

150 participants

Start Date

Nov 12, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Anger Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Summary

Difficulty controlling anger is the most commonly reported reintegration concern among combat Veterans, especially those with a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Problematic anger is associated with significant functional impairment. In the current project, the investigators will compare the Mobile Anger Reduction Intervention (MARI) with a health education mobile intervention (HED) among Veterans with PTSD and problematic anger. Participants will be randomized to the MARI or HED condition. The hypothesis is that participants in the MARI condition will experience greater anger reductions and functional improvements relative to the HED condition.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria4

Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, established via chart review and a score of greater than or equal to 33 on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)
Reporting a score of greater than or equal to 12 on the 5-item Dimensions of Anger Reactions Scale
Have not had any changes to type or dose of psychiatric medications for 3 months, with no plans to make adjustments in the next 6 months
Able to read at least 6th grade level material

Exclusion Criteria4

Currently in a period of active psychosis or mania
Exhibit current prominent suicidal or homicidal ideation requiring immediate intervention
Have used the MARI application before as part of another research study
Receiving (or plan to receive) other anger management psychotherapy or trauma-focused therapy for PTSD (i.e., prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy during the course of the study

Interventions

BEHAVIORALMobile Anger Reduction Intervention (MARI)

This is a mobile intervention that uses interpretation bias modification (IBM) techniques to reduce the hostile interpretation bias. Participants will download the MARI app and be instructed to complete at least 5 treatment sessions each week for a period of 4 weeks. Each session takes approximately 10 minutes. The app also includes a Nightly Diary to track symptoms, a calendar to program session reminders, and a My Progress feature to track use and performance.

BEHAVIORALHealth Education Condition (HED)

This is a mobile application that delivers videos with psychoeducation about healthy habits and selfcare for general wellness. Participants will download the HED app and be instructed to use it at least 5 times a week for a period of 4 weeks.