Francine Shapiro Library - EMDR Bibliography Links
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1. Maxfield, L. (2003, September). A working memory explanation for the effects of EMs in EMDR. In N. Smyth (Chair), Recent research evaluating the role of eye movements in EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Research has consistently demonstrated that performance is degraded when participants engage in two simultaneous tasks that require the same working memory resources. This study tested predictions from working memory theory to investigate the effects of eye movement (EM) on the components of autobiographical memory. In two experiments, 24 and 36 participants, respectively, focused on negative memories while engaging in three dual-attention EM tasks of increasing complexity. Compared to No- EM, Slow-EM and Fast-EM produced significantly decreased ratings of image vividness, thought clarity, and emotional intensity, and the more difficult Fast-EM resulted in larger decreases than did Slow-EM. The effects on emotional intensity were not consistent, with some preliminary evidence that a focus on memory-related thought might maintain emotional intensity during simple dual-attention tasks (Slow-EM, No-EM). The findings of our experiments support a working memory explanation for the effects of EM dual-attention tasks on autobiographical memory. Implications for understanding the mechanisms of action in EMDR are discussed.
Keywords: EMs Eye Movements Working Memory
Accuracy Verified: Yes
2. [Chang Sue-Hwang, & Lin C.-P.]. （2004年9月）. 從快速眼動到EM在EMDR的：跳視眼球運動和變化的語義關係的強度 [From REM to EM in EMDR: Saccadic eye movements and change of strength of semantic associations]. 在提交的文件 第43次年度會議在台灣心理學會，研討會 焦慮症：心理素質，調解員和治療問題。政大 大學，台北，台灣，9月26日。 （國科會92 -2815- C型002 -072- H）的 [Presentation at the 43rd Annual Conferences on Taiwan Psychological Association, Symposium on Anxiety Disorders: Diatheses, Mediators and Therapeutic Implications. Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan, September 26. (NSC 92-2815-C-002-072-H)].
Language: Chinese
Format: Conference
Abstract:
研讨会焦虑症：糖尿病，调解员和治疗的影响;（国科会92 - 2825 -架C - 002 - 072 - H）的研究背景及目的：本研究从快速眼动睡眠的眼动脱敏和再加工（EMDR）治疗的可能机制依赖内存后处理模型（夏皮罗，1995年; Stickgold，2002年）的建议，通过睡眠诱导活化的弱协会在REM国家和新兴市场在联想记忆改变运作为REM睡眠融入一般语义记忆创伤的情节记忆。该协会的新兴市场对语义变化的影响后，跳视眼球运动是双边审查了本研究。方法：22名大学生被招募参加者。通过语义启动的任务，一个2（眼球运动情况：水平跳视眼球运动主场迎战没有眼球运动）× 2（语义关联的强度：强主场迎战弱）因子之间的题目设计进行审查的EM在变化的影响强度为否定词的语义联想。为负的刺激弱协会primeability改变反对强者来，根据不同的电磁环境进行了比较。结果：2 × 2方差分析结果表明了显着的主要电磁效应和电磁×语义联想实力显着交互作用，显示弱吸大大超过了强大的电磁吸后，而恰恰相反后非统。结论：研究结果呼应快速眼动睡眠相关记忆加工模式，认为在EMDR电磁可能反映了联想记忆系统通过激活不同的语义相关的词负语义节点协会不同强度的转变。对心理治疗的可能性和未来研究的结果所造成的影响进行了讨论。
Symposium on Anxiety Disorders: Diabetes, Mediators and Therapeutic Implications; (NSC 92-2825-C-002-072-H) Research background & aims: This study examined possible therapeutic
mechanisms of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) from
REM-sleep dependent memory reprocessing model (Shapiro, 1995; Stickgold, 2002)
that proposed that sleep induced change in associative memory via activation of weak
association during REM state and EMs functioned as REM sleep to integrate the
episodic memory of trauma into general semantic memory. The effect of EM on
change of semantic associations after saccadic bilateral eye movements was examined
in the present study.
Methods: Twenty two college students were recruited as participants. Via semantic
priming task, a 2 (eye movement condition: horizontal saccadic eye movements vs. no
eye movements) × 2 (strength of semantic association: strong vs. weak) between
subject factorial design was performed to examine the effect of EM on change of
strength of semantic association for negative words. Change of primeability of weak
associations for negative stimuli as opposed to that of strong ones under different EM
conditions was compared.
Results: The 2 × 2 ANOVA showed a significant main effect for EM and a
significant interaction effect of EM × strength of semantic association, indicating that
weak priming significantly exceeded strong priming after EM, while the opposite was
true after non-EM.
Conclusions: The results echoed REM-sleep dependent memory reprocessing model,
suggesting that EM in EMDR might reflect a shift in associative memory systems by
activating different strength of associations of negative semantic nodes for different
semantically related words. The implications of the results for psychotherapy and
future research possibilities are discussed.
Keywords: Anxiety Disorders Postttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD REM REM-Sleep Dependent Memory Reprocessing Model Saccadic Eye Movement Semantic Association Symposium
Accuracy Verified: Yes
3. Srivastava, U., & Mukhopadhyay, A. (2008, September). Application of EMDR in the treatment of major depressive disorder: A case study. Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology, 35(2), 163-172.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
This article presents a case study applying Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in major depressive disorder. The study describes the application of Shapiro’s Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model in the treatment of major depressive disorder and explores the use of EMDR with a 30 year old woman experiencing depressive symptoms with 3 suicidal attempts in 5 years. Due to strong negative reactions to psychiatric medicines, her treatment was discontinued several times and she was referred for psychotherapeutic intervention. After 9 EMDR treatment sessions, her depression was completely cured; her coping improved and other symptoms of anxiety and social withdrawal were completely controlled. Effects were checked and found maintained up to 6 months follow up. The clinical implications of application of EMDR have been explored.
Keywords: Adaptive Information Processing AIP Bilateral Stimulation BLS Case Study Depression EMs Eye Movements Major Depressive DIsorder Somatic Symptoms BHUJ experience.
Accuracy Verified: Yes
4. Christman, S. D., & Butler, M. (2005, November). Bilateral eye movements impair the encoding and enhance the retrieval of episodic memories. Presentation at the 46th annual meeting of the Psychonomic Society, Toronto, Ontario Canada.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract: Engaging in bilateral saccadic eye movements (EMs) immediately prior to retrieval has been shown to enhance the retrieval of episodic, but not semantic, memories (Christman, Garvey, Propper, & Phaneuf, 2003; Christman, Propper, & Dion, 2004). The present study extended this paradigm by investigating the effect of EMs at encoding, as well as at retrieval. EMs prior to encoding led to a significant impairment in episodic recall ( p = .004), relative to no-EM controls. In contrast, in the absence of EMs at encoding, EMs at retrieval led to marginally better episodic recall ( p = .12). EM manipulations had no effects on tests of implicit and semantic memory. Thus, bilateral saccadic EMs impair versus enhance the encoding versus retrieval of episodic memories, respectively. Results are interpreted in terms of EM-induced increases in cholinergic activity (resulting in episodic memories being integrated into semantic networks) versus interhemispheric interaction (resulting in enhanced access to right-hemisphere–based retrieval mechanisms).
Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation Eye Movements
Accuracy Verified: Yes
5. Christman, S. D., & Stieber, P. (2005, February). Bilateral eye movements lead to a neutralization of affective state. Poster presented at the 33rd annual meeting of the International Neuropsychological Society, St. Louis, MO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract: Engaging in bilateral eye movements (EM) leads to increases in Stroop interference, improvements in episodic memory, and decreases in false memories in a converging semantic associates paradigm. These results are interpreted as reflecting EM-induced equalization of cortical activation and subsequent enhancement of interhemispheric interaction. Since increased right versus left hemisphere activation is associated with negative versus positive affect, respectively, it was hypothesized that EMs following a mood-induction procedure should result in neutralization of affect. Seventy three right-handed participants engaged in happy or sad mood induction procedures, providing mood ratings on a 1-9 scale, followed by 30 seconds of either bilateral EMs or, as a control, watching a dot change color repeatedly. Participants then supplied a second mood rating. Analyses of the Happy condition showed no mood differences after mood induction, with all participants yielding scores significantly happier than neutral. After administration of the visual condition, participants in the Colored Dot condition showed no change in mood. In the EM condition, however, participants showed a significant reduction in positive affect. Analyses of the Sad condition showed that the mood induction procedure failed, with participants reporting neutral moods after mood induction. Post hoc analyses of only those participants reporting sad moods after induction showed that participants in the EM condition exhibited a marginally greater neutralization of affect than in the Colored Dot condition. The results provide tentative support for the hypothesis that bilateral EMs result in neutralization of emotional states, reflecting an equalization of cortical activation in the left and right hemispheres.
Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation Eye Movements
Accuracy Verified: Yes
6. Christman, S., & Garvey, K. (2001, June). Bilateral eye movements reduce cortical activation asymmetries. Presentation at the 2001 EMDR International Association Conference, Austin, TX.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Alternating left-right eye movements (EMs) have been shown to enhance episodic memory recall (Christman & Garvey, 2000). In turn, enhanced recall of episodic, or autobiographical, memories has been linked to increased interhemispheric interaction (Christman & Propper, 2001; Propper & Christman, 1997). Since leftward versus rightward EMs induce right versus hemisphere activation, respectively (Bakan & Svorad, 1969), bilateral EMs may facilitate interhemispheric interaction by balancing hemispheric activation levels. In other words, asymmetries in cortical activation may impair interhemispheric communication. Christman and Garvey (2000), however, demonstrated only that bilateral EMs enhance episodic memory performance; they did not directly measure hemispheric activation. To test this hypothesis directly, participants were administered two behavioral tests that are sensitive to variations in hemispheric activation. The Chimeric Faces Test (Levy, Heller, Banich, & Burton, 1983) involves mirror-image pairs of faces, with one smiling hemiface and one neutral hemiface, presented under conditions of free viewing. Participants are asked to judge which member of a pair looks happier. Right versus left hemiface biases are associated with relative increases in left versus right hemispheric activation. Line bisection tasks also tap into hemispheric activation, with leftward versus rightward bisection errors reflecting increased right versus left hemisphere activation. Bisection tasks, however, are also influenced by premotor asymmetries (e.g., Luh, 1995), and thus represent a less pure measure of hemispheric activation.
METHODS Participants performed blocks of chimeric face and line bisection trials. They then engaged in 30 seconds of alternating left-right saccades (2 eye movements per second). Participants then performed a second block of trials for both tasks.
RESULTS Results showed that behavioral asymmetries in the chimeric face task were significantly reduced after the EMs (p<.029). This supports the hypothesis that bilateral EMs reduce hemispheric activation asymmetries. Performance on line bisection task, however, was unaffected by EMs (F<1), perhaps reflecting the fact that this task is a less direct measure of hemispheric activation.
DISCUSSION These results provide further insight into mechanisms underlying EMDR therapy used for PTSD patients. Reduction in hemispheric activation asymmetry arising from bilateral EMs employed in the current study (and in EMDR) may enhance interhemispheric communication. This interpretation is consistent with Ramachandran (1995), who showed that vestibular stimulation (inducing optokinetic nystagmus and resulting in involuntary left-right EMs) reduces the denial of deficit found in anosagnosia patients.
Ramachandran (1995) suggested that the procedure benefits the hypoaroused right hemisphere, bringing its activation level up to par with the left hemisphere. Similarly, EMs used in EMDR may balance hemispheric activation levels, in turn enhancing interhemispheric communication and retrieval of episodic memories.
Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation Eye Movements
Accuracy Verified: Yes
7. Leeds, A. M., & Korn, D. L. (2012). A commentary on Hornsveld et al. (2011): A valid test of resource development and installation? Absolutely not. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 6(4), 170-173. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.6.4.170.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Researchers have published evidence supporting both the “working memory“ and the “REM/Orienting Response“ hypotheses as mechanisms underlying the documented treatment effects of EMDR on patients with posttraumatic stress disorder. Hornsveld et al. (2011) provide additional evidence of the impact of eye movements (EMs) on aspects of positive memory recall, but overstate their findings relevance to resource development and installation (RDI: Korn & Leeds, 2002) and to the interhemispheric interaction hypothesis (Propper & Christman, 2008). Most likely multiple mechanisms underlie the observed effects of EMDR and RDI. The needed RDI test is to randomly assign patients with Disorders of Extreme Stress not Otherwise Specified with measured coping difficulties to alternate conditions: one an RDI procedure without bilateral (or other distracting) sensory stimulation and one with bilateral EMs.
Keywords: RDI REM/Orienting Response Resource Development and Installation Working Memory
Accuracy Verified: Yes
8. Samara, Z., Elzingal, B. M., Slagter, H. A., & Nieuwenhuis, S. (2011, March). Do horizontal saccadic eye movements increase interhemispheric coherence? Investigation of a hypothesized neural mechanism underlying EMDR. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2(4), 1-9. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00004.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Series of horizontal saccadic eye movements (EMs) are known to improve episodic memory retrieval in healthy adults and to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories in eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Several authors have proposed that EMs achieve these effects by increasing the functional connectivity of the two brain hemispheres, but direct evidence for this proposal is lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate whether memory enhancement following bilateral EMs is associated with increased interhemispheric coherence in the electroencephalogram (EEG). Fourteen healthy young adults were asked to freely recall lists of studied neutral and emotional words after a series of bilateral EMs and a control procedure. Baseline EEG activity was recorded before and after the EM and control procedures. Phase and amplitude coherence between bilaterally homologous brain areas were calculated for six frequency bands and electrode pairs across the entire scalp. Behavioral analyses showed that participants recalled more emotional (but not neutral) words following the EM procedure than following the control procedure. However, the EEG analyses indicated no evidence that the EMs altered participants’ interhemispheric coherence or that improvements in recall were correlated with such changes in coherence. These findings cast doubt on the interhemispheric interaction hypothesis, and therefore may have important implications for future research on the neurobiological mechanism underlying EMDR.
Keywords: Eye Movements EMs
Accuracy Verified: Yes
9. Propper, R. E., Pierce, J., Geisler, M. W., Christman, S. D., & Bellorado, N. (2007, September). Effect of bilateral eye movements on frontal interhemispheric gamma EEG coherence: Implications for EMDR therapy. Journal of Nervous Mental Disorders, 195(9), 785-788. doi:10.1097/NMD.0b013e318142cf73.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
The use of bilateral eye movements (EMs) is an important component of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for PTSD. The neural mechanisms underlying EMDR remain unclear. However, prior behavioral work looking at the effects of bilateral EMs on the retrieval of episodic memories suggests that the EMs enhance interhemispheric interaction. The present study examined the effects of the EMs used in EMDR on interhemispheric electroencephalogram coherence. Relative to noneye-movement controls, engaging in bilateral EMs led to decreased interhemispheric gamma electroencephalogram coherence. Implications for future work on EMDR and episodic memory are discussed. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Adults Americans Brain Imaging Bilateral Eye Movements College Students Empirical Study Neurophysiology Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Quantitative Study
Accuracy Verified: Yes
10. Ohtani, T., Matsuo, K., Kasai, K., Kato, T., & Kato, N. (2010, February). Erratum to “Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder”. Neuroscience Research, 66(2), 232. doi:10.1016/j.neures.2009.12.002.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Reports an error in "Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder" by Toshiyuki Ohta ni, Koji Matsuo, Kiyoto Kasai, Tadafumi Kato and Nobumasa Kato (Neuroscience Research, 2009[Dec], Vol 65[4], 375-383). The publisher regrets that the surname of Dr. Ohtani was incorrectly spelt in the original article. The corrected author listing is given in the erratum. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2009-20201-001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective psychological intervention for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma-related recall (Recall) with eye movements (EMs) is thought to reduce distress. However, the neural mechanisms underlying this process remain unknown. Thirteen patients with PTSD received EMDR treatment over the course of 2–10 weeks. We assessed the change in hemoglobin concentration in the lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) during Recall with and without EM using multi-channel near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Clinical diagnosis and improvement were evaluated using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale. Recall with EM was associated with a significant decrease in oxygenated hemoglobin concentration ([oxy-Hb]) in the lateral PFC as compared with Recall without EM. Longitudinally, [oxy-Hb] during Recall significantly decreased and the amount of decrease was significantly correlated with clinical improvement when the post-treatment data was compared with that of the pre-treatment. Our results suggest that performing EM during Recall reduces the over-activity of the lateral PFC, which may be part of the biological basis for the efficacy of EMDR in PTSD. NIRS may be a useful tool for objective assessment of psychological intervention in PTSD. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)
Keywords: Hemodynamic Responses Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
11. Davis, B. (2008, March 17). Finding help. Wyoming-Tribune-Eagle.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
She uses some special techniques to help officers “air their dirty laundry,” so to speak.
She uses a technique called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, to help the officers recall memories more clearly and be better able to deal with them rationally.
Accuracy Verified: Yes
12. Ohtani, T., Matsuo, K., Kasai, K., Kato, T., & Kato, N. (2009, December). Hemodynamic responses of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in posttraumatic stress disorder. Neuroscience Research, 65(4), 375-383. doi:10.1016/j.neures.2009.08.014.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective
psychological intervention for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Trauma-related recall (Recall) with eye movements (EMs) is thought to reduce
distress. However, the neural mechanisms underlying this process remain
unknown. Thirteen patients with PTSD received EMDR treatment over the course
of 2 to 10 weeks. We assessed the change in hemoglobin concentration in the
lateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) during Recall with and without EM using
multi-channel near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Clinical diagnosis and
improvement were evaluated using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale.
Recall with EM was associated with a significant decrease in oxygenated
hemoglobin concentration ([oxy-Hb]) in the lateral PFC as compared with
Recall without EM. Longitudinally, [oxy-Hb] during Recall significantly
decreased and the amount of decrease was significantly correlated with
clinical improvement when the post-treatment data was compared with that of
the pre-treatment. Our results suggest that performing EM during Recall
reduces the over-activity of the lateral PFC, which may be part of the
biological basis for the efficacy of EMDR in PTSD. NIRS may be a useful tool
for objective assessment of psychological intervention in PTSD.
Keywords: Hemodynamic Responses Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD
Accuracy Verified: Yes
13. Young, J., & Zangwill, W. (1995, June). Integrating schema-focused therapy & EMDR. Presentation at the EMDR Network Conference, Santa Monica, CA.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Dr. Young has developed an integrative model that seems especialy appropriate for combining with EMDR. According to the
theory proposed, eighteen Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) are at the core of personality disorders. An EMS is defined as an
extremely broad, pervasive theme regarding oneself and one's relationship with others, developed during childhood and elaborated
throughout one's lifetime, and dysfunctional to a significant degree. Shapiro's concept of childhood file folders would be analogous
to the concept of schemas. These eighteen schemas are primarily unconscious but can be brought to awareness through various
strategies, especially EMDR.
This presentation will demonstrate how to integrate the use of Schema-Focused therapy with EMDR. In this model, Schema-
Focused therapy serves as the primary conceptual framework for working with the client while EMDR is seen as the primary change
technique.
The first step in this process is a thorough history taking looking for both traumatic life events and the client's underlying
vulnerabilities and schemas. History taking is accomplished both through client interviews and the use of Lazarus' Multimodal Life
History Questionnaire. The Schema Questionnaire and the Parent Questionnaire developed by Young are given and scored. As part
of this process, the therapist attempts to help the client discriminate memories representing primary trauma versus memories that
represent life long issues. The EMDR model eliciting infonmtion - asking the client about specific events and problems, then
obtaining Pictures, Negative and Positive Cognitions, Affect and Body Sensations as well as SUDS and VOC ratings - is used as
soon as the client is comfortable. Collecting information this way without the use of Eye Movements has been shown to be a very
effective way of tapping into the neural network where related memories are stored. The grouping of these memories often appears
to be along such schema lines as Vulnerability, Defectiveness, Abandonment, etc.
As the therapeutic relationship develops, clients are educated about EMDR and schemas. The last part of this process is the Case
Conceptualization. This involves putting together the information from history taking, the schema questionnaire and the parent
questionnaire and the client's in-session behavior to formulate a useful picture of client problems, likely problem origins, and
recommended change techniques. Knowing what issues/themes your client is vulnerable to, tells you where to start your EMDR
exploration. It also helps suggests where to probe when processing stops, i.e., what blocking beliefs may be present, what type of
cognitive interweave to use, etc.
Once the case conceptualization is complete, EMDR is used as always. However, the use of Schema Focused therapy with EMDR
broadens the scope of EMDR.
1) Cognitive Therapy for Personalitv Disorders: A Schema-Focused Approach. Revised Ed.
Professional Resource Press, Sarasota, FL, (813)366-7913; 2) Reinventing Your Life, J. Young and J. Klosko. New York, Plume, 1994.
Keywords: Schema-Focused Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
14. Young, J., & Zangwill, W. M. (1996, June). Integrating schema-focused therapy with EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Dr. Young has developed an integrative model that seems especialy appropriate for combining with EMDR. According to the
theory proposed, eighteen Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMS) are at the core of personality disorders. An EMS is defined as an
extremely broad, pervasive theme regarding oneself and one's relationship with others, developed during childhood and elaborated
throughout one's lifetime, and dysfunctional to a significant degree. Shapiro's concept of childhood file folders would be analogous
to the concept of schemas. These eighteen schemas are primarily unconscious but can be brought to awareness through various
strategies, especially EMDR.
This presentation will demonstrate how to integrate the use of Schema-Focused therapy with EMDR. In this model, Schema-
Focused therapy serves as the primary conceptual framework for working with the client while EMDR is seen as the primary change
technique.
The first step in this process is a thorough history taking looking for both traumatic life events and the client's underlying
vulnerabilities and schemas. History taking is accomplished both through client interviews and the use of Lazarus' Multimodal Life
History Questionnaire. The Schema Questionnaire and the Parent Questionnaire developed by Young are given and scored. As part
of this process, the therapist attempts to help the client discriminate memories representing primary trauma versus memories that
represen life long issues. The EMDR model eliciting information - asking the client about specific events and problems, then
obtaining Pictures, Negative and Positive Cognitions, Affect and Body Sensations as well as SUDS and VOC ratings - is used as
soon as the client is comfortable. Collecting information this way without the use of Eye Movements has been shown to be a very
effective way of tapping into the neural network where related memories are stored. The grouping of these memories often appears
to be along such schema lines as Vulnerability, Defectiveness, Abandonment, etc.
As the therapeutic relationship develops, clients are educated about EMDR and schemas. The last part of this process is the Case
Conceptualization. This involves putting together the infonmtion from history taking, the schema questionnaire and the parent
questionnaire and the client's in-session behavior to formulate a useful picture of client problems, likely problem origins, and
recommended change techniques. Knowing what issues/themes your client is vulnerable to, tells you where to start your EMDR
exploration. It also helps suggests where to probe when processing stops, i.e., what blocking beliefs may be present, what type of
cognitive interweave to use, etc.
Once the case conceptualization is complete, EMDR is used as always. However, the use of Schema Focused therapy with EMDR
broadens the scope of EMDR.
1)Cognitive Therapy for Personality Disorders: A Schema-Focused Approach. Revised Ed.
Professional Resource Press, Sarasota, FL, (813) 366-7913
2)Reinventing Your Life, J. Young and J. Klosko. New York, Plume, 1994.
Keywords: Schema-Focused Therapy
Accuracy Verified: Yes
15. Wade, T., & Wade, D. (2001, January-April). Integrative psychotherapy: Combining ego-state therapy, clinical hypnosis, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in a psychosocial developmental context. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 43(3-4), 233-245. doi:10.1080/00029157.2001.10404279.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
The principles of this conceptual framework are: (1) personality organization is
dissociative as well as associative, consisting of ego states, and progresses through
stages of psychosocial development; (2) inappropriately activated ego states cause
dysfunction, which is habitual or due to the intense affect of disrupted development
or unresolved grief or trauma; (3) completely overcoming dysfunction requires
therapy with both individual ego states and the personality system; (4) clinical
hypnosis provides techniques to enhance accessing ego states; and (5) EMDR
combines ego-state therapy with eye movements (EMs) to produce a powerful
psychotherapy method. During assessment, ego states responsible for
dysfunctional emotional reactions and behavior are identified together with those
that could be appropriate instead. Included in the treatment protocol, EMs and
clinical hypnosis promote: (1) corrective developmental experiences; (2) resolution
of grief and trauma; (3) acquisition of skills and abilities; (4) co-consciousness;
and (5) negotiation among ego states. The outcome is an integrated “family of
self” that has effectively overcome developmental crises, grief, and trauma, is
aware of essential inner resources, and can consciously activate appropriate ego
states. [Author Abstract]
Keywords: Clinical Hypnosis Ego Ego-State Therapy Hypnotherapy Integrative Psychotherapy Review Multimodal Treatment Approach Psychosocial Development Psychosocial Developmental Context
Accuracy Verified: Yes
16. Beere, D. B. (2000, June). Intellectualized. EMDRIA Newsletter, 5(2), 5.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
When I find that during EMS my client is very intellectualized and/or engaging in reflective and analytical processing, I have altered the EMs in the following ways. My theoretical rationale is that the conscious activity distances the individual from the inner experience.
Keywords: Directing Eye Movement
Accuracy Verified: Yes
17. Chang, S. H. (2005). Mechanism of EM in EMDR: Change strength of semantic associations. Presentation at the American Psychological Association Annual Convention, Washington, DC.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Research background & objectives: Based on REM-sleep dependent memory reprocessing model, this study examined possible therapeutic mechanisms of eye
movements in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR; Shapiro, 1989,
1995, 2001). Stickgold (2002) proposed that sleep induced change in associative memory
via activation of weak association during REM state and EMs functioned as REM sleep to
integrate the episodic memory of trauma into general semantic memory. Specifically, the
effect of EM in relation to order of relatedness of associations on change of strength of
semantic associations for negative words after saccadic bilateral eye movements was
examined in the present study.
Methods: Sixty-four college students were recruited as participants. Via semantic
priming task, a 2 (eye movement condition: horizontal saccadic eye movements vs. no
eye movements) × 3 (strength of semantic association: strong priming vs. weak priming
vs. unrelated priming) × 2 (block order of presentation: related prime first vs. unrelated
prime first) mixed factorial design was performed, with strength of semantic association
serving as within Ss factor and the other two variables serving as between Ss factors. The
primes consisted of negative word stimuli. Each trials consisted of an 8 seconds saccadic
horizontal eye movement manipulation (200 ms per movement in EM condition),
followed by 500-msec fixation point and then prime displayed for 32msec, which was
followed immediately by the target. The participant was instructed to read the target as
soon as possible and the reaction time was recorded by the compuer. While absolute
primeability index for strong (or weak) association was calculated as (RT
related – RT unrelated) for strong primes or weak primes, respectively, relative primeability index was calculated as (RT related – RT unrelated)/RT
unrelated. The dependent variables were correct (%), error (%), and primeability index for each of strong prime and weak prime. Change of primeability
of weak associations for negative stimuli as opposed to that of strong ones under different
EM conditions and different block order was compared.
Results: For absolute primeability index, the 2 (EM condition) × 2 (order) × 2 (strength
of priming) ANOVA showed that only the interaction effect of EM × strength of semantic
association was approaching significance, indicating that weak priming significantly
exceeded strong priming after EM (F (1, 56)
= 18.01, p < .001; partial ω 2= .210), while the
opposite was true after non-EM (F (1, 56)
= 25.86, p < .0001; partial ω 2 = .280). Further, for weak prime, the priming effect was stronger after EM than after non-EM (F
(1, 56) = 74.62,
p < .0001; partial ω 2 = .535). For relative primeability index, it also revealed that only the interaction effect of EM × strength of semantic association was significant (F (1, 56) = 6.09, p < .02; partial ω 2 = .074), and tests of simple main effects showed similar patterns as those of absolute primeability index. Conclusions: 8s EMs was associated with change of strength of semantic associations.
While EM didn’t weaken the primeability for the strong association, EM did enhance the
primeability for weak associations. Further, weak priming significantly exceeded strong
priming after EM, while the opposite was true after non-EM. The results echoed
REM-sleep dependent memory reprocessing model, suggesting that EM in EMDR might
reflect a shift in associative memory systems by activating different strength of
associations of negative semantic nodes for different semantically related words. Given
that order of relatedness didn’t play a role and previous research showed that EM resulted
in decreased vividness and emotionality and generated greater amount of associations for
negative stimuli as well, the implications of the present results from theoretical and
psychotherapy point of views and future research possibilities are discussed.
Keywords: EMDR REM REM-Sleep Dependent Memory Reprocessing Model Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Saccadic Eye movement Semantic Association
Accuracy Verified: Yes
18. Hornsveld, H. (2011, June). More support for the working memory hypothesis: Results and clinical implications. Presentation at the 12th European Conference on Traumatic Stress (ECOTS), Vienna, Austria.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Eye movements (EMs) during retrieval of negative memories reduce the vividness and emotionality of these memories when they are being recalled later. This is a robust phenomenon and is the basis of the EMDR method. Of the many explanations that have been put forward to explain the benefits of EMs, the working memory (WM) explanation has – by far - the most empirical support.
The WM hypothesis will be explained and a new series of experiments will be presented that give additional support for the WM account and have some large clinical implications.
1.In over 50% of the EMDR treatments eye movements are replaced by other bilateral stimulation like auditory tones or tapping. These ‘variants’ lack empirical support. Several studies (in healthy subjects and patients) strongly suggest that these alternatives are inferior to eye movements. This is in line with the working memory account.
2.Eye movements are also used in (non-desensitization) procedures like the safe place and the RDI procedure. Again, there is no empirical support for the added value of eye movements. Our research indicates that – in line with the WM theory – EM’s seem counterproductive in RDI.
3.EMs also reduce the vividness and emotionality of (disturbing) images of feared future events: "flashforwards". Research data in a non-clinical sample and some clinical cases will be presented.
Hornsveld,H.K. & van de Hout, M.A.
Utrecht University, Dept of Clinical and Health Psychology, Utrecht, Netherlands
Marcel van den Hout, Iris Engelhard en Hellen Hornsveld received the 2010 EMDR Award for Outstanding Research.
Keywords: Working Memory Hypothesis
Accuracy Verified: Yes
19. Smyth, N., Maxfield, L., & Rogers, S. (2003, September). Recent research evaluating the role of eye movements in EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR International Association, Denver, CO.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Findings of component studies are summarized, with a review of studies which reported that EMs reduced memory vividness and emotiveness. The results of three recent studies are presented. 1) A study evaluated the effects of EMs on the components of memory to test working memory explanations of EMDR; 2) a study using participants with dental phobia determined if memories of disturbing dental events,and related dental anxiety, were influenced by EMs; 3) A large-N comparison with combat veterans, compared EMDR and a non-eye-movement analog to evaluate the effect of EMs on treatment outcome, process and changes in trauma narratives.
Keywords: Eye Movements Research
Accuracy Verified: Yes
20. Staff. (2007, November 19). Reports outline life sciences study findings from Merrimack College, Psychology Department. Biotech Business Week, Expanded Reporting, 1204.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
A new study, 'Effect of bilateral eye movements on frontal interhemispheric gamma EEG coherence: implications for EMDR therapy,' is now available (see also Life Sciences). "The use of bilateral eye movements (EMs) is an important component of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder. The neural mechanisms underlying EMDR remain unclear," scientists in the United States report.
Keywords: Research
Accuracy Verified: Yes
21. Schmidt, S. J. (1999, March). Resource-focused EMDR: Integration of ego state therapy, alternating bilateral stimulation, and art therapy. EMDRIA Newsletter, 4(1), 8, 10-13, 25-28.
Language: English
Format: Newsletter
Abstract:
I conceptualize EMDR as the process of linking the trauma from one part of the brain to a solution in
another part of the brain, to reach an adaptive resolution. The standard EMDR protocol proposes
accomplishing this by focusing heavily on the trauma. Most of my clients are adult survivors of
childhood trauma and their tolerance of a trauma-focused protocol is often low. I wondered if the
same adaptive resolution could be accomplished by focusing primarily on the part of the brain
holding the solution rather than the trauma. I recently began developing a resource-focused
protocol, which borrows from Sandra Paulsen’s (1994, 1995, & 1996) suggestions for integrating
EMDR with ego state therapy, and Andrew Leeds’ (1997) protocol for resource development and
resource installation (RD/RI). This new protocol puts significant emphasis on developing and
strengthening the felt sense of well-being connected to resource ego states before EMDR processing,
and maintenance of the sense of well-being during EMDR processing. It involves using the clients’
drawings of resource ego states and traumatized ego states (drawn with the dominant and nondominant
hand) as anchors for ego state processing, and as the focal points in eye movements (EMs).
In this protocol, traumatic material is elicited only when sufficient internal resources, represented by
drawings, are displayed in front of the client. The intention of this approach is to minimize risk of
affect overwhelm and maximize the probability that the part of the brain holding the trauma will link
to the part of the brain holding the solution.
In my experience the resource-focused protocol
Keywords: Art Therapy Bilateral Stimulation BLS Ego State Therapy Resource-Focused EMDR
Accuracy Verified: Yes
22. Chang, S. W. (2010, September/October). The role of eye movement in the therapeutic mechanisms of EMDR: An evidenced-based experimental approach. Research symposium conducted at the annual meeting of EMDR International Association, Minneapolis, MN.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
This presentation will address differential effects of EMs and exposure from outcome/process measures, interplays of EMs, valence of cognitions, and presentation order from theoretical/clinical viewpoints, and how EMDR might work from informational processing evidence.
Keywords: Eye Movements Symposium Therapeutic Mechanisms
Accuracy Verified: Yes
23. Hornsveld, H. K., de Jongh, A., ten Broeke, E. (2012). Stop the use of eye movements in resource development and installation, until their additional value has been proven: A rejoinder to Leeds and Korn (2012). Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 6(4), 174-178. doi:10.1891/1933-3196.6.4.174.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
This brief article responds to Leeds and Korn's (2012) commentary on our article (Hornsveld et al., 2011) in which we found that eye movements (EMs) during recall of positive and resourceful autobiographic memories (such as those used in resource development and installation [RDI]) led to decreases of (a) vividness, (b) pleasantness, and (c) experienced strength of the intended quality or resource. Hence, we found an opposite effect than what was intended and critically discussed this in our article. In their comments, Leeds and Korn stress their positive clinical experience with RDI and emphasize the limitations of our study. Here we argue that our results, despite their limitations, are fully in line with mounting evidence supporting a working memory account for EMs. Moreover, opposite effects for EMs in the RDI and the safe place procedure accord with several other clinical observations. Given the absence of any confirmatory results, we again advocate, and now even more strongly, to stop the use of EMs in the RDI and safe place procedures until their additional value has been proven.
Keywords: Clinical Impressions RDI Resource Development and Installation Safe Place Working Memory
Accuracy Verified: Yes
24. van den Hout, M. A., Rijkeboer, M. M., Engelhard, I. M., Klugkist, I., Hornsveld, H., Toffolo, M. J. B., & Cath, D. C. (2012, May). Tones inferior to eye movements in the EMDR treatment of PTSD. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 50(5), 275-279. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2012.02.001.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During EMDR, patients make eye movements (EMs) while recalling traumatic memories, but recently therapists have replaced EMs by alternating beep tones. There are no outcome studies on the effects of tones. In an earlier analogue study, tones were inferior to EMs in the reduction of vividness of aversive memories. In a first EMDR session, 12 PTSD patients recalled trauma memories in three conditions: recall only, recall + tones, and recall + EMs. Three competing hypotheses were tested: 1) EMs are as effective as tones and better than recall only, 2) EMs are better than tones and tones are as effective as recall only, and 3) EMs are better than tones and tones are better than recall only. The order of conditions was balanced, each condition was delivered twice, and decline in memory vividness and emotionality served as outcome measures. The data strongly support hypothesis 2 and 3 over 1: EMs outperformed tones while it remained unclear if tones add to recall only. The findings add to earlier considerations and earlier analogue findings suggesting that EMs are superior to tones and that replacing the former by the latter was premature.
Keywords: Bilateral Stimulation BLS EMs Eye Movements Tones
Accuracy Verified: Yes
25. Jeffries, F. W., & Davis, P. (2013, October). What is the role of eye movements in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? A review. Behavioral Cognitive Psychotherapy, 41(3), 290-300. doi:10.1017/S1352465812000793.
Language: English
Format: Journal
Abstract:
Background: Controversy continues to exist regarding how EMDR works and whether its mechanisms differ from those at work in standard exposure techniques. Aims: To investigate first whether eye movement bilateral stimulation is an essential component of EMDR and, second, the current status of its theoretical basis. Method: A systematic search for relevant articles was conducted in databases using standard methodology. Results: Clinical research evidence is contradictory as to how essential EMs are in PTSD treatment. More positive support is provided by analogue studies. With regards to potential theoretical support, some evidence was found suggesting bilateral stimulation first increases access to episodic memories; and second that it could act on components of working memory which makes focusing on the traumatic memories less unpleasant and thereby improves access to these memories. Conclusions: The results suggest support for the contention that EMs are essential to this therapy and that a theoretical rationale exists for their use. Choice of EMDR over trauma-focused CBT should therefore remain a matter of patient choice and clinician expertise; it is suggested, however, that EMs may be more effective at reducing distress, and thereby allow other components of treatment to take place.
Keywords: Eye Movements Posttraumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Review
Accuracy Verified: Yes
26. Hornsveld, H. (2011, June). Work mechanisms in EMDR. Presentation at the annual meeting of the EMDR Europe Association, Vienna, Austria.
Language: English
Format: Conference
Abstract:
Eye movements (EMs) during retrieval of negative memories reduce the vividness and emotionality of these memories when they are being recalled later. This is a robust phenomenon and is the basis of the EMDR method. Of the many explanations that have been put forward to explain the benefits of EMs, the working memory (WM) explanation has – by far - the most empirical support.
The WM hypothesis will be explained and a new series of experiments will be presented that give additional support for the WM account and have some large clinical implications.
1.In over 50% of the EMDR treatments eye movements are replaced by other bilateral stimulation like auditory tones or tapping. These ‘variants’ lack empirical support. Several studies (in healthy subjects and patients) strongly suggest that that these alternatives are inferior to eye movements. This is in line with the working memory account.
2.Eye movements are also used in (non-desensitization) procedures like the safe place and the RDI procedure. Again, there is no empirical support for the added value of eye movements. Our research indicates that – in line with the WM theory – EM’s seem counterproductive in RDI.
3.EMs also reduce the vividness and emotionality of (disturbing) images of feared future events: “flashworwards”.
Learning objectives:
Research data in a non-clinical sample and some clinical cases will be presented.
Keywords: Mechanisms
Accuracy Verified: Yes
27. Maxfield, J. L. (2003). A working memory analysis of the dual attention component of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario Canada. AAT NQ85018.
Language: English
Format: Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract:
This dissertation applied the concepts and predictions of working memory theory to a psychotherapeutic approach, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). The overview of EMDR included a description of the treatment, theoretical model, empirical studies, and possible mechanisms of action. The overview of working memory included a summary of concepts and theories, and a comprehensive research review. Seven studies that investigated the related effects of eye movements (EMs) were described in detail. Two experiments were conducted to test predictions from working memory research about the effect of EMs on autobiographical memory. In both Experiments, participants identified 3 negative memories and focused on each for 2 minutes, while simultaneously engaging in 1 of 3 divided attention (DA) conditions: an easy EM task (Slow-EM), a difficult EM task (Fast-EM), and a task with no EM (Control). Measures were pre-post ratings of memory-related image vividness, thought clarity, and emotional intensity. In Experiment 2, participants were also randomly assigned to a focus on image-only or image-thought. Memory recall during Control resulted in significant post-condition increases in all measures, except emotional intensity in Experiment 1. Compared to Control, recall during both Slow-EM and Fast-EM produced significantly smaller scores for image vividness and thought clarity, and, in Experiment 2, for emotional intensity. At post-condition, Fast-EM resulted in significantly lower scores than Slow-EM for image vividness in both Experiments and emotional intensity in Experiment 2. There were no differences in outcomes between focus on image-only and on image-thought. Findings of the current experiments supported a working memory explanation for the effects on visual and thought clarity. The competition of resources during simultaneous EM and memory recall reduced memory quality. The greater degradation of memory components resulting from the more difficult condition, Fast-EM, may be attributed to demands made on visuospatial sketchpad resources. The components of each memory appeared to be linked and to show similar patterns of change, within conditions. Reported levels of pre-task emotional intensity did not predict change in thought clarity and image vividness. Finally, a theoretical application of working memory theory to EMDR was presented and recommendations were made for future research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)
Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering. 64(10-B), 2004, pp. 5225.
Keywords: Attention Dual Attention Component Empirical Study Eye Movements Short-Term Memory Working Memory
Accuracy Verified: Yes