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ERIC Number: ED523167
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2010
Pages: 241
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: ISBN-978-1-1243-6656-2
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Online Cognitive-Restructuring Self-Help: www.SelfHelpSocialAnxiety.com a New Application for Social Anxiety Disorder
Egan, Julia
ProQuest LLC, Psy.D. Dissertation, Alliant International University, San Francisco Bay
The primary purpose of the present study was to develop an online self-help treatment program for Social Anxiety Disorder, focused on cognitive restructuring. It can be difficult getting socially anxious individuals to commit to treatment since therapy is typically a face to face social interaction (the feared stimulus). Recent research suggests that the Internet may be a way to reach these individuals. There is empirical support showing cognitive behavioral therapy, both face to face and self-help is an effective treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder. A self-help website was developed by the researcher with assistance from a programmer. The site consists of nine modules based on CBT techniques. The second purpose of the study was to have the program evaluated for suitability by experts in the field. Experts in Social Anxiety Disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy and/or internet interventions were recruited to review the program at two time periods for a formative and summative evaluation. The formative evaluation consisted of an open ended questionnaire, each expert's feedback was reviewed using a qualitative content analysis and the frequencies were calculated. The recommended changes from the formative evaluation were implemented to strengthen the program. The summative evaluation was completed after the changes, and the feedback consisted of both Likert scale items and open ended questions. The experts rated six questions assessing four areas: functionality, usability, appropriateness and relevance on a 5-point Likert scale. Means and standard deviations were calculated based on the ratings, and all areas received means of three and above. A qualitative content analysis was conducted of the open ended feedback, and frequencies were calculated. Overall, the experts expressed a general support and endorsement of the program as a suitable way to address social anxiety symptoms. Limitations include lack of exposure techniques in the program and an assessment of effectiveness using a clinical population. Future areas for research include specifying guidelines for Internet interventions and development of programs for other disorders. It is the researcher's hope that online intervention programs will help reduce stigma and will be a large part of how clinical services are provided in the future. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A