Theories predict PTSD development after trauma if trauma information is not adequately processed or negatively appraised. Imagery rescripting of traumatic memories is considered as an effective treatment for PTSD. The present study investigated the impact of early imagery rescripting on intrusion development after an aversive film. Participants were randomly allocated to one of three conditions: imagery rescripting (IRS), imagery reexperiencing (IRE) and positive imagery (PI). All participants watched an aversive film, had a and received a 9-min intervention after a 30 minute break (IRS, IRE or PI). One week later the IRS group developed fewer intrusive memories relative to the IRE and PI groups, and less negative cognitions than the IRE group. The results suggest that IRS might be an adequate technique to change memory consolidation at an early stage and therefore a powerful and non-distressing strategy to prevent PTSD symptoms.
Hagenaars, M., A., & Arntz, A. (2012). Reduced intrusion development after post-trauma imagery rescripting; an experimental study. Journal of behavior therapy and eyperimental psychiatry, 43 (2), 808–814.
doi: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2011.09.005
