Goals in Focus (Ziele im Fokus)
Therapy trial "Goals in Focus" (German: "Ziele im Fokus") for treatment of motivational negative symptoms in psychosis
A randomized controlled trial
Head of Project
Prof. Dr. Tania Lincoln (Universität Hamburg)
Research Associate
Dr. Matthias Pillny (Universität Hamburg)
Background
A majority of people with psychosis also experiences reduced drive and motivation. When positive symptoms decrease, these reductions – known as „minus-“ or „negative symptoms“ - often become the focus of attention. People with motivational negative symptoms report difficulties initiating activities or pursuing and achieving their goals. Additionally, they experience less interest or joy in social interactions or activities they used to enjoy beforehand.
Available treatment approaches targeting motivational negative symptoms show rather small effect sizes. Promising therapeutic approaches have been found to build on mechanisms crucial to the genesis and preservation of negative symptoms according to basic research.
At Universität Hamburg, the new treatment approach "Goals in Focus" (German: "Ziele im Fokus") has been developed. This treatment approach was derived from research on these mechanisms and is aiming at improving motivational negative symptoms, specifically. The treatment approach aims at establishing and pursuing personal relevant goals in different areas of life.
To support patients in this process, the improvement of individual difficulties regarding the goal implementation is essential. Different interventions can be used by the therapist concerned depending on individual patient needs. These interventions are based on findings regarding reduced anticipatory pleasure, altered reward processing and demotivating beliefs and are complemented by a component on social- and problem-solving skills .
The treatment approach encompasses 24 sessions and is conducted in an out-patient setting. Currently, the treatment approach "Goals in Focus" is being evaluated in a randomized controlled pilot trial regarding first estimates of effect, feasibility and acceptance.
To participate in the therapy trial of "Goals in Focus" the following criteria need to be met:
1) age of at least 16 years
2) diagnosis of a psychotic spectrum disorder, e.g., schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
3) difficulties initiating and maintaining activities, reduced anticipation of pleasure, reduced interest in activities and social withdrawal as main treatment concern
4) sufficient German language skills
Information for people interested in participation:
Recruitment for this study is complete.