Recent Advances in Attention Bias Modification for Substance Addictions

• Main Authors: Melvyn Weibin Zhang, Jiang Bo Ying, Guo Song, Daniel S. S. Fung, Helen E. Smith
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2018-04-01
• Series: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
• Subjects: attention bias; attention bias modification; substance abuse; addiction; E-Health; M-Health
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/15/4/676

Research on attentional bias modification has increased since 2014. A recent meta-analysis demonstrates evidence for bias modification for substance disorders, including alcohol and tobacco use disorders. Several pharmacological trials have shown that pharmacological agents can attenuate and modify such attentional bias. The pharmacological trials that have appeared to date have produced mixed results, which has clinical implications. Developments in Internet and mobile technologies have transformed how attention bias modification is currently being achieved. There remains great potential for further research that examines the efficacy of technology-aided attention bias interventions.