Michenbaum: Cognitive To Improve

Question 1

Method?

Answer 1

A field experiment where students were assessed before and after treatment using self-report and average grades.

Question 2

PPs?

Answer 2

21 students aged 17-25 who responded to an advert.

Question 3

Design?

Answer 3

Matches pairs with random allocation to either the SIT group, the waiting list or standard systematic.
Matched by gender and anxiety levels

Question 4

Procedure?

Answer 4

• Each PP completed anxiety questionnaire+allocated to group.
• SIT= 8 therapy sessions, given positive statements+relaxation techniques
• Systematic= 8 sessions with progressive relaxation training, encouraged to practice
• Control told on a waiting list

Question 5

Results?

Answer 5

• performance in tests improved most in SIT group

* significant diff between therapy+control

Question 6

Conclusions?

Answer 6

SIT is a more effective way of reducing anxiety in students wh are anxiety prone in tests.
More effective than behavioural techniques such as systematic desensitisation as adds a cognitive element.

Question 7

Strengths?

Answer 7

• matched pairs= no order effects
• field experiment= high ecological validity
• control group= increases validity

Question 8

Weaknesses?

Answer 8

• volunteer= demand characteristics
• control group= unethical
• small sample

Question 9

Aim?

Answer 9

To compare SIT with standard behavioural systematic desensitisation when treating exam-related anxiety.

Question 10

What does SIT stand for?

Answer 10

Stress Inoculation Training

Question 11

3 stages of SIT?

Answer 11

1. Conceptualisation: patient becomes aware of thoughts they have in stressful situations
2. Acquisition: taught coping strategies
3. Application: practice ^ irl stressful situations