Edwards, CJ;
Smith, RJF;
Lafit, G;
Ward, T;
Emsley, R;
Rus-Calafell, M;
Myin-Germeys, I;
... Garety, PA; + view all
(2025)
The Impact of AVATAR therapy on Voice-Hearing in Everyday Life: ESM Outcomes of the AVATAR2 Trial.
Schizophrenia Bulletin
(In press).
![[thumbnail of SCHBUL_sbaf100_updated_correction.pdf]](https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/style/images/fileicons/text.png) |
Text
SCHBUL_sbaf100_updated_correction.pdf - Accepted Version Access restricted to UCL open access staff until 3 June 2026. Download (536kB) |
Abstract
AVATAR therapy involves facilitated dialogues between a voice-hearer and a digital embodiment of their distressing voice (‘the avatar’). We conducted a multi-site single-blind randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of brief (AV-BRF) and extended (AV-EXT) forms of AVATAR therapy, compared with treatment as usual (TAU) alone AVATAR2. This study reports the data from experience sampling method (ESM) assessments conducted at baseline, end of therapy (16 weeks), and follow-up (28 weeks). The research questions focused on whether those in the AV-BRF or AV-EXT arms experienced less voice-related distress, anxiety, and beliefs as measured by ESM, compared to TAU. Multilevel mixed models were fitted for each measure. The final sample (n = 100) completed an average of 49 questionnaires across all timepoints. Participants who received AV-EXT therapy, but not AV-BRF, reported reduced momentary voice-related distress at 16 weeks (P = .022) and 28 weeks (P = .029). Appraisals of voice intent were also reduced in the AV-EXT arm at 16 weeks when the voice was present (P = .020) and at 28 weeks. Voice power appraisals were reduced (P < .035) in both arms when the voice was “not present but on my mind” at all timepoints. There were no changes in the frequency of voice hearing, appraisals of voice intent, or affective responding. These findings from everyday life, reported for the first time, provide supportive information on the primary AVATAR therapy treatment targets, including appraisals of voice power and intent. The weight of evidence favours the AV-EXT protocol in the further development and implementation of AVATAR therapy.
Archive Staff Only
 |
View Item |
