2025 Program Committee Chairs:

Amie Zarling, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and an associate professor at Iowa State University (United States) in the Human Development and Family Studies program where she maintains an active research program focused on developing and testing evidence-based interventions for under-served and/or under-resourced populations. One of the primary areas of her work is the prevention and treatment of family violence, and evaluating programs based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for domestic violence and criminal behavior. Dr. Zarling has received over $2 million in funding for her work, including multiple grants from the Office on Violence Against Women and the Department of Justice. She is a recent recipient of the American Psychological Foundation’s Visionary Award and the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science’s Early Career Award. Dr. Zarling has trained more than 500 people in the ACT programs for justice-involved individuals. She continues to be involved in ongoing training, evaluation, and improvement of these programs.

Maureen Flynn, Ph.D., is a professor in the psychological sciences department at Metropolitan State University of Denver. She mentors undergraduates in CBS research and teaches CBS and ACT in her courses. Her program of research focuses on ACT, psychological flexibility and core processes, stigma, and discrimination.

Special thanks to the 2025 Program Committee: 

Bara Al saleem

Olga Berkout

Yash Bhambhani

Michael Bordieri

Puihan Joyce Chao

Sarah  Cheney

Connie Chong

Jessica Criddle

Joanna Dudek

Rivka Edery

River Farrell

Paula Carolina Fernandez Diaz

Ashley Fiorilli

Arryn Guy

Emmie Hebert

Amy House

Abby Hurley

Charles Jasper

Nicole Kalayci

Valerie Kiel

Seint Kokokyi

Deirdre Kozyrski

Ching-yee LAM

Raimo Lappalainen

Andreas Larsson Seglert

Lou Lasprugato

Daniel Maitland

Yim Wah Mak

Wesley Malvini

Tierney McMahon

Austin Miyamoto

DJ Moran

Jose Moreno

Margot Osorio

Kristy Potter

Victoria Powers

Tracy Protti

Amanda Rhodes

Priscila Rolim

Thomas Sease

Hugh Simonich

Wanda Smith

Gita Srikanth

Alison Stapleton

Steven Topper

Sanna Turakka

Sheri Turrell

Jae Villanueva

Harry Voulgarakis

Leslie Worley

Sean Wright

Patricia Zurita Ona
  

Location: Napoleon Ballroom Foyer

Image denotes ACBS Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipients

Poster Session #1 - Wednesday, July 16, 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

1. Psychological Flexibility-Based Interventions for Teacher Well-Being: A Systematic Review - Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipient

Categories: Academics or education, Organizational / Industrial psychology, Teacher well-being, Psychological flexibility interventions, Occupational well-being

Components: Literature review

Ella Kämper, M.A., University of Helsinki
Veera Lampinen, M.Sc., University of Helsinki
Nina Katajavuori, Ph.D., University of Helsinki
Tiago da Silva Carvalho, M.A., University of Helsinki
Henna Asikainen, Pd.D., docent, University of Helsinki

Poor teacher well-being is well-documented, leading to a need for interventions aimed at equipping educators with skills to manage stress. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has shown promising outcomes, including increased psychological flexibility and reduced stress and burnout among workers. However, studies on ACT-based interventions specifically in teachers remains limited.
This systematic review examines interventions utilizing psychological flexibility processes for teachers, highlighting their benefits and limitations. Using the PRISMA framework, 35 studies were included. Studies were analyzed based on intervention content, measurement methods (mixed designs), and outcomes related to teacher well-being.
Findings suggest that psychological flexibility-based interventions positively affect teachers' well-being and work engagement. Self-reports indicated improved well-being and reduced stress through increased mindfulness, self-compassion, and adaptive coping, while physiological results varied. Participants perceived the programs positively, with engagement, resources and initial stress influencing outcomes.
While results are promising, methodological variability and homogeneous samples limit generalizability. Future research should explore long-term effects, optimal implementation strategies, and individual differences in intervention effectiveness. This review contributes to understanding psychological flexibility’s role in supporting teacher well-being and resilience.

2. ACT-based Wells course enhancing student and staff wellbeing and working life skills

Categories: Academics or education, Processes of change, University students, Academics, Momentary measurement, PBAT

Components: Original data

Henna Asikainen, Ph.D., University of Helsinki
Kristiina Räihä, M.A., University of Helisnki
Veera Lampinen, M.A., University of Helsinki
Ella Kämper, M.A., University of Helsinki
Viktoria Balla, Ph.D., University of Helsinki
Nina Katajavuori, Ph.D., University of Helsinki

There is still lack of research on individual processes during interventions and physiological evidence. The poster will introduce the Wells project supporting academic wellbeing and working life skills. In addition, we will introduce our study on the development of stress during Wells course and how process based dimensions and physiological stress are associated with the individual changes.
Pilot study was done in 2024 to university students participating Wells-course (Nf13). The participants answered stress questionnaires four times a day (mobile app) and PBAT questionnaire once a day they. In addition the participants wore the Empatica device though out the course. The stress levels were coded as (0=no stress, 1=elevated stress, 2= high stress level) based on the algorithm of Hosseini et al. (2022). The preliminary analysis for associations and changes were analysed with correlations, regression and mixed models.
Need for Connection, retention concerning course goal and affect components seem to explain stress the most.
The data will be further analysed to the conference.

3. Exploring the Impact of the Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment (MAC) Approach on Behavior Analysts

Categories: Behavior analysis, Mindfulness

Components: Literature review, Original data

Jewel Parham, Ph.D., M.S., BCBA, The Chicago School
Julie Ackerlund Brandt, Ph.D., BCBA-D, The Chicago School
Meredith Andrews, Ph.D., BCBA-D, The Chicago School
Jack Spear, Ph.D., The Chicago School

Burnout among behavior analysts significantly impacts both job performance and overall well-being; however, research on effective evidenced-based interventions remains limited. This study examined the effects of a semi-structured, seven-module mindfulness-acceptance-commitment (MAC) approach on work-related values-directed behaviors, such as the frequency of staff feedback and positive staff interactions. In addition to the MAC intervention, participants completed the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire – Version 2 (AAQ-2) to assess burnout, cognitive emotion regulation strategies, and psychological flexibility.
A multiple baseline design across three participants, all behavior analysts, was employed to evaluate the intervention’s effects.
Although results varied across measures, work-related values-directed behaviors increased in two out of three participants, with variable responding in all participants. Social validity surveys showed the MAC intervention improved flexible thinking, professional performance, and overall well-being.
Despite the mixed results, the findings underscore the individualized benefits of the MAC intervention and its potential to promote work-related values-directed behaviors. This study adds to the growing research on interventions supporting behavior analysts experiencing burnout.

4. Does learning SCDs enhance a teacher's awareness of the interaction between their behavior and students' behavior?

Categories: Behavior analysis, Single-Case Designs, SCDs, School, Teacher, Interaction between behavior and environment, Contingency

Components: Original data

Kana Ueki, Child rearing consultation department of Handa City
Shinji Tani, Ph.D., Ritsumeikan University

Students’ challenging behavior are increasing in Japanese schools, and their resolution is often left to the skills of individual teachers. If teachers become aware of the interaction between their behavior and students' behavior, they would be able to distinguish between effective and ineffective support strategies. This study aimed to explore whether teachers could aware the interaction between their behavior and students’ behavior in the process of acquiring SCDs techniques.
Seven elementary school teachers participated in the workshop. The program consisted of four 90-minute sessions. All participants attended all four sessions. Each session covered three-term contingency, support strategies based on PBIS, the selection and recording of target behavior, graph creation and interpretation. All participants selected target behavior and recorded them throughout the workshop.
Five teachers practiced A-B1-B2 design and two teachers practiced A-B design. During session discussions, six of seven participants tacted the interaction between their behavior and students’ behavior.
The results suggest that learning SCDs designs can improve a teacher’s awareness of the interaction between their behavior and students' behavior.

5. Increasing ingestible allergy safety skills in children with autism using derived relational training - Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipient

Categories: Behavior analysis, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Children with Autism

Components: Case presentation, Original data

Man Yan (Ida) I Chung, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Children with autism face significant challenges in managing ingested allergies due to language deficits and difficulty generalizing learned avoidance behaviors. This study examined the effectiveness of Derived Relational Training (DRT), rooted in Relational Frame Theory in teaching children with autism to identify and avoid allergens.
Three participants underwent a multiple baseline design across behaviors, where they learned to match allergens to reactions (A-B), reactions to verbal responses (B-C), and generalized allergen-to-verbal responses (A-C). A novel generalization phase (A-D) tested responses to untrained allergens.
Results showed rapid skill acquisition, high generalization to novel allergens, and maintenance over time, demonstrating DRT’s potential to enhance safety skill generalization in children with autism. Parents reported skill transfer beyond therapy into everyday settings.
This study extends previous research on RFT-based interventions, providing a novel application of DRT for real-world safety skills. While limited by a small sample size, findings support DRT as a promising tool for increasing independence in allergen avoidance. Future research should explore larger samples, real-world settings, and parental involvement to enhance generalization.

6. ACT for Adolescents: Developing Psychological Flexibility in Groups

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Adolescents, ACT

Components: Original data

Carolina Monteiro, Autonomo

Presentation of a master's dissertation project, which aims to investigate the effects of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based program on the Psychological Flexibility of a group of adolescents.

7. Pilot Study for Examining the Physiological Effects of a Structured Online Mindfulness-Based Course

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Physiological Effects of Sustained Attention in a Structured Online Mindfulness-Based Course

Components: Original data

Eve A Barton, Brigham Young University
Steven G Luke, Ph.D., Brigham Young University
Jared S Warren, Ph.D., Brigham Young University

This study explored the effects of a 15-session online mindfulness course on attention and well-being using objective and subjective measures. Using a randomized controlled design, participants were assigned to either a structured mindfulness course or a control group with unstructured psychoeducational resources.
Forty-one undergraduate students were randomly assigned to either a structured online mindfulness course or a control group receiving unstructured mindfulness resources. Pre- and post-intervention measures assessed well-being and attention using self-report surveys and a SPEM task, with data analyzed through mixed effects models, regression, and t-tests.
Results revealed no significant differences in attention outcomes between the intervention and control groups. However, greater course completion in the intervention group was linked to improved well-being, underscoring the importance of participant engagement in online mindfulness interventions.
While the mindfulness course did not yield significant group differences in attention or well-being, higher engagement was linked to improved well-being outcomes. These findings suggest that active participation is key to intervention effectiveness and highlight the need for future research with larger, more diverse samples and strategies to enhance engagement.

8. The ASPIRE-Study: Inpatient Group Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Psychotic Disorders (PDs)

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, ACT for psychotic disorders

Components: Original data

Henrik Voß, Charite / Vivantes Berlin
Lennard Telschow, M.Sc., Charite / Vivantes Berlin

Psychotic disorders (PDs) are severe and often recurrent mental illnesses that sometimes require hospitalization. However, according to research, current inpatient group-psychotherapy does not perform well in terms of efficacy and relapse prevention. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) sets itself apart by enhancing the client’s psychological flexibility rather than focusing on symptom reduction. This approach has been proven useful in the treatment of other severe chronic conditions.
Thirty inpatients from a German PD unit, whose entire staff was trained in ACT, are currently undergoing interviews and quantitative assessments before and after participating in an intensive 4-week therapy-program, as well as at a 6-month follow-up, to investigate their experiences and clinical outcomes.
So far, a variety of ACT-specific and non-specific therapeutic factors were identified as helpful by participants in the interviews, with about one-third finding it difficult to engage in mindfulness exercises. Quantitative measures display positive trends regarding various clinical outcomes and an overall high level of satisfaction.
Conclusively, the first results appear promising, while underlining both the concept’s feasibility and the need for RCTs.

9. Default Mode Network (DMN) Signature of Depression: A Systematic Review of Resting-state fMRI studies

Categories: Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Depression

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review

Mahdieh Jafari, Master of Arts, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lauren A Smith, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Shreya Swamy, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Nicholas C Borgogna, Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham

The recent ACBS task force report indicated CBS research should take multilevel and multimodal approaches. Biophysiological CBS research was identified as an important dimension. Historically, neurobiological correlates of ACBS constructs have been limited. We aimed to address this gap by presenting data from a systematic review that aims to examine Default Mode Network (DMN) signatures of depression.
We synthesize findings from 112 resting-state fMRI studies published since 1997 examining DMN connectivity among individuals with different subtypes of depression. The papers were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria by two independent reviewers.
We report DMN connectivity patterns in specific brain regions such as the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, and hippocampus, as well as differences across depression subtypes.
The finding will provide a comprehensive insight into how DMN connectivity varies across specific brain regions and depression subtypes, advancing our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying depression. We will discuss these findings from a CBS perspective.

10. Scrupulosity, Neuroticism, and Flourishing: Results and Clinical Implications

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, Scrupulosity (religious OCD)

Components: Original data

David Johnson, M.A., University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lauren A Smith, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Nicholas Borgogna, Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham

Scrupulosity is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with religious or moral themes. This study aims to explore the relationship between personality dimensions and scrupulosity, and how other psychological health variables may play a role in that relationship. Specifically, we hypothesized that flourishing would mediate the relationship between neuroticism and scrupulosity obsessions.
We collected a university sample of n=561 participants who participated in an online survey.
We found that scrupulosity obsessions were significantly related to neuroticism (r=.25, p<.001) and flourishing (r=-.29, p<.001). Additionally, flourishing partially mediated the relationship between neuroticism and scrupulosity obsessions (indirect β=.05, 95% C.I.=.03, .08; direct β=.19, p<.001).
These findings suggest that these constructs play an important role in the development of scrupulosity symptoms. These findings have important research and clinical implications. There is scant research on the use of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to treat scrupulosity, however aspects of ACT focus heavily on flourishing and are associated with lower levels of neuroticism. Future research should examine the efficacy of ACT on scrupulosity symptoms by specifically addressing neuroticism and flourishing.

11. Does Experiential Avoidance Weaken the Protective Effects of Religiosity/Spirituality on Depression?

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Experiential Avoidance, Depression, Religiosity, Spirituality, Mental Health

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Lauren A Smith, University of Alabama at Birmingham
David A Johnson, B.S., University of Alabama at Birmingham
Nicholas C Borgogna, Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham

The relationship between religiosity/spirituality (R/S) and mental health is complex. While R/S can be protective, it may also pose risks. Experiential avoidance (EA) is associated with increased depressive symptoms. This study examines whether EA moderates the relationship between R/S and depressive symptoms. We predict that high EA will strengthen the positive R/S-depression relationship, while low EA will have an inverse relationship.
Two university samples (n=1,154) completed measures through Qualtrics for course credit.
Contrary to hypotheses, EA did not moderate the relationship between religious fundamentalism, religiosity, and depression. Results from a model without interactions showed these adjusted relationships with depression: religiosity (β = -0.080, p = 0.025), religious fundamentalism (β = -0.065, p = 0.022), spirituality (β = -0.018, p = 0.586), and EA (β = 0.460, p < 0.001). All predictors accounted for 23% of the variance in depression scores.
These relationships persisted even when accounting for other variables, suggesting religiosity and religious fundamentalism independently contribute to lower depression, while experiential avoidance remains a risk factor. Spirituality was not a significant predictor.

12. From Loneliness to Adverse Outcomes: Investigating the Roles of Psychological Flexibility and Inflexibility

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Psychological Flexibility, Psychological Inflexibility, Sleep, Psychological Distress, Health, Well-Being, Fatigue

Components: Original data

Dixy Melendez, B.S., The University of Texas-Tyler
Oscar Velasquez, B.A., University of Texas-Tyler
Olga Berkout, Ph.D., University of Texas-Tyler

Loneliness is a key predictor of negative outcomes in young adults including sleep, psychological distress, and general health (Park et al., 2020). Psychological flexibility and its converse, psychological inflexibility, may be protective against these undesirable consequences (Ortega-Jimenez et al., 2021). Investigating whether psychological flexibility and psychological inflexibility serve as mediators of the relationships between loneliness and these outcomes can provide an improved understanding of the mechanisms by which loneliness may impact function.
367 undergraduate students completed a survey that included measures of loneliness, psychological flexibility and psychological inflexibility, fatigue, sleep disturbance, physical well-being, and distress.
A path analysis will be conducted to examine the potential mediating roles of psychological inflexibility and psychological flexibility in the relationship between loneliness and adverse outcomes, including distress, sleep disturbance, fatigue, and physical well-being.
Identifying psychological flexibility and psychological inflexibility as potential mediators would provide support for the role of these variables as mechanisms of dysfunction, suggesting targets for intervention and prevention efforts. Support for the model can inform future strategies aiming to ameliorate deleterious outcomes associated with loneliness.

13. Easing Distress for Better Rest: The Role of Self-Compassion in Sleep Quality

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Sleep, Self-Compassion, Distress

Components: Original data

Emily Barena, M.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Madeline Adair Blackwell, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Dixy Melendez, B.S., The University of Texas-Tyler
Jacob M Hardin, B.A.A.S., University of Texas at Tyler
Lindsey Mustin, B.S., University of Texas at Tyler
Tatum Speck, B.A., University of Texas at Tyler
Olga Berkout, Ph.D., University of Texas-Tyler

Psychological distress, an established predictor of poor sleep quality, has unclear mechanisms (Vaghela & Sutin, 2016, Zhang et al. 2022). Self-compassion may diminish detriments of distress on sleep (Tout, 2023, Rakhimov, 2022). This study examines if self-compassion mediates the relationship between distress and sleep quality.
Undergraduates (N = 414) completed measures of psychological distress (DASS-21), self-compassion (SCS-SF), and sleep quality (PROMIS-SF 8a). Mediation analysis was conducted to explore this relationship.
Analysis revealed significant indirect effect of distress on sleep quality through self-compassion (β = 0.0607, SE = 0.0170, p < .001), accounting for 17.5% of the total effect. The effect of psychological distress on sleep quality was significant (β = 0.2871, SE = 0.0340, p < .001), indicating partial mediation. The effect of distress on sleep quality was also significant (β = 0.3478, SE = 0.0306, p < .001), confirming that sleep quality is impacted by distress.
This relationship shows that individuals with greater self-compassion may experience milder effects of psychological distress on sleep quality, highlighting self-compassion as a potential buffer between distress and sleep.

14. Psychological flexibility, self-concealment, and pliance: Mediating the effects of loneliness on life satisfaction

Categories: Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, , Loneliness, Psychological flexibility, Life satisfaction

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Madeline Adair Blackwell, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Emily Barena, M.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Olga Berkout, Ph.D., University of Texas-Tyler

Loneliness is associated with adverse psychological and physical outcomes (Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018; Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). College students are particularly vulnerable due to instability during life transitions (Lim et al., 2020).
Path analysis of N = 367 undergraduate students investigated psychological flexibility, self-concealment, and pliance as mediators in the relationship between loneliness and life satisfaction.
Results showed that loneliness had a strong direct negative effect on life satisfaction (β = -0.40 p < 0.001). Psychological flexibility (β = -0.09, p < 0.001) and self-concealment (β = -0.06, p = 0.013) both partially mediated this relationship. Pliance, however, did not significantly influence life satisfaction (β = 0.04, p = 0.402) or mediate the impact of loneliness (β = 0.01, p = 0.407). The model showed good fit (CFI = 0.98, TLI = 0.92, SRMR = 0.04, RMSEA = 0.09), indicating that psychological flexibility and self-concealment are critical mediators of the impact of loneliness on life satisfaction.
Targeting interventions to increase psychological flexibility and reduce self-concealment may mitigate the negative effects of loneliness on life satisfaction.

15. Improving Engagement in a Brief Digital Loneliness Intervention: An Examination of User Experience

Categories: Mobile or digital technology, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Loneliness

Components: Original data

Madeline Adair Blackwell, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Olga Berkout, Ph.D., University of Texas-Tyler
Dixy Melendez, B.S., The University of Texas-Tyler
Jacob M Hardin, B.A.A.S., University of Texas at Tyler
Emily Barena, M.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Alma Bluesummers, M.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Oscar Velasquez, B.A., University of Texas-Tyler
Ruta Shashikant Dighe, BS, University of Texas-Tyler
Arathi Tachathumannil, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler

Brief digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) show promise for addressing loneliness, which is linked to deleterious psychological and physiological outcomes (Caccioppo & Caccioppo, 2018; Lunstad et al., 2010). College students are particularly vulnerable due to life transitions (Lim et al., 2020). DMHIs, while accessible and low-cost, often face engagement challenges outside clinical trials (Kaveladze et al., 2024). Early input from potential users may enhance their effectiveness.
Undergraduate students recently reporting high loneliness completed a DMHI based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and provided feedback in semi-structured think aloud interviews. Data from four participants have been collected and six more are anticipated to be recruited during the spring 2025 semester. Reflexive thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2021, Maity et al., 2024) will guide coding, theme identification, and thematic map development, providing insights for refinement.
Findings may highlight intervention components' perceived usefulness, design strengths or weaknesses, and impacts on participants’ loneliness.
This feedback could inform strategies for improving DMHIs for similar populations and demonstrate potential value of user-centered design to enhance DMHI engagement and effectiveness.

16. DBT adaptation in developing countries: Bogotá, Colombia. Universidad de Los Andes/Balance y Bienestar SAS

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Behavior analysis, DBT, BPD, Risky behaviors, Emotional disregulation, Adaptation of clinical interventions in developing countries, Adults, Social Inequities

Components: Case presentation, Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Alexandra Avila Alzate, M.Sc., Universidad de Los Andes
Yvonne Gómez, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Diana Sánchez, M.Sc., Practice Coordinator Universidad de Los Andes

We compared two institutions that adapted DBT for treating clients with BPD, life-threatening behavior, and emotional regulation difficulties. Sociodemographic and contextual variables are important to consider when adapting this intervention to a developing country.
The methodology implemented was based on: case analysis, comparison of self-report measures, comparison in the adaptation of DBT and sociodemographic variables.
Both institutions covered the first phase of treatment, but later phases, which focus on emotional control, interpersonal relationships, and a sense of purpose, are limited by time and contextual factors, especially for those without access to DBT in private practice. The private institution provides all treatment phases, though success can still be affected by factors like poor adherence and social support.
We need private institutions and postgraduate professional practice centers to continue researching and collecting data so that mental health in our country and public policies take into account the social inequalities that prevent people from effectively accessing interventions. It is important to continue working on cultural adaptations that are sensitive to the economic and political constraints of developing countries.

17. Thin-Ideal Across Cultures: The role of body image inflexibility and the fear of negative evaluation

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Social justice / equity / diversity, Body Image

Components: Original data

Selen Ozbek, M.Sc., University of the West of England
James Greville, Ph.D., University of South Wales
Nic Hooper, Ph.D., Cardiff University

The thin-ideal standard of female beauty negatively impacts body satisfaction in Western societies, yet its effects across cultures remain underexplored.
his study examined the impact of thin-ideal exposure on women in Turkey and the UK and investigated whether body image inflexibility (BII) and fear of negative evaluation (FNE) contribute to cross-cultural differences. Participants (N = 262) completed measures of body dissatisfaction, BII, and FNE before being randomly assigned to view either thin-ideal or neutral images, after which body dissatisfaction was reassessed.
Results indicated that participants from the UK experienced greater increases in body dissatisfaction when exposed to the thin-ideal relative to those from Turkey, and that, across cultures, those who were more negatively affected by the thin-ideal scored higher on BII and FNE.
These results highlight the role of psychosocial factors in shaping body dissatisfaction across cultures and suggest that sociocultural pressures may interact with cognitive and emotional processes to influence body image. Implications for cross-cultural research and interventions targeting body dissatisfaction are discussed.

18. Human-Computer Interaction Contributions in Mental Health: A Framework to Guide Psychosocial Intervention Design

Categories: Methods/approaches for individual variation, Human Centered Design, Design Methods, Human-Computer Interaction

Components: Conceptual analysis

Sean A Munson, Ph.D., University of Washington
Petr Slovak, Ph.D., King’s College London

Many people prefer psychosocial interventions for mental health care or other concerns, but these interventions are often complex and unavailable in settings where people seek care. Intervention designers use technology to improve user experience or reach of interventions, and HCI researchers have made many contributions toward this goal. Both HCI and mental health researchers must navigate tensions between innovating on and adhering to the theories of change that guide intervention design.
We reflect on projects in HCI, including our own, to articulate a framework for coordinating HCI and intervention design contributions.
In this paper, we propose a framework that describes design briefs and evaluation approaches for HCI contributions at the scopes of capabilities, components, intervention systems, and intervention implementations. We show how theories of change (from mental health) can be translated into design briefs (in HCI), and that these translations can bridge and coordinate efforts across fields.
It is our hope that this framework can support researchers in motivating, planning, conducting, and communicating work that advances psychosocial intervention design/

19. The Acceptability of Mindfulness Among People of Color

Categories: Methods/approaches for individual variation, Mindfulness

Components: Literature review, Original data

Kayla Johnson, B.A, Western Michigan University
Amy Naugle, Ph.D., Western Michigan University

Mindfulness is utilized in psychology as a component of an intervention or as a stand-alone treatment. Despite the efficacy of mindfulness to decrease anxiety, depression, stress, and other presenting concerns, there is no consensus in the literature on the acceptability of mindfulness-based interventions among people of color (POC). The current study uses a mixed-methods process to assess what factors influence the acceptability of mindfulness among POC and what modifications could enhance cultural relevance.
POC ages 18 years or older who experience clinically significant symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress were presented with a description of mindfulness and a video vignette example of mindfulness with a hypothetical client. They were interviewed to gather information about their acceptability of mindfulness and suggested strategies to increase cultural relevance.
Themes across seven components of a theoretical framework of acceptability and treatment modification were identified.
The themes provided an understanding of the acceptability of mindfulness among POC and can be utilized to increase the participation of POC in mindfulness-based interventions and inform effective cultural adaptation of mindfulness.

20. A business case for employee wellbeing: return on investment of an ACT consultation service in a sales organization

Categories: Organizational / Industrial psychology, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Employee Wellbeing

Components: Case presentation, Original data

Sean M O'Dell, Ph.D., Beyond The Horizon, PLLC
Erin VanEnkevort, Ph.D., Geisinger

Organizations whose revenue is primarily generated from its sales force have a unique opportunity to invest in employee wellbeing to promote retention, job performance, and the financial health of the organization. An individual consultation program using Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) was offered as a benefit to employees during the workday at a nurse staffing company in the Northeast United States.
After one year of implementation, we conducted a return on investment (ROI) analysis of the sales force (n=17), including the cost of the program for all 25 employees using general linear mixed models.
Controlling for weeks worked, overall organizational revenue generation, and prior individual performance, the average increase in revenue per employee was significantly higher for those who utilized the program (n=5; $1.6 million) compared to those who did not (n=12; $422,104; p<.0001); ROI for the program was 8,476% and no turnover was observed for individuals using the program.
Our findings suggest that ACT offered in the workplace to all employees in sales organizations holds promise as a financially sustainable employee benefit.

21. The Role of Psychological Flexibility in Injury, Redshirting, and Substance Use Among NCAA Student-Athletes

Categories: Processes of change, Health / behavioral medicine, Psychological Flexibility, Substance Use, Student-Athlete

Components: Literature review, Original data

Brendan W Skinner, B.S., Western Michigan University
Bri Wade, Calvin University
Amy Naugle, Ph.D., Western Michigan University

The collegiate student-athlete experience presents unique challenges such as injury and redshirting. While these adversities are common (Wilkes, 2014; NCAA, 2024), limited research examines their impact on student-athlete health and well-being. Substance use is a prevalent concern among collegiate athletes (NCAA, 2024), yet it’s relationship with injury and redshirting remains understudied. The construct of psychological flexibility has been implicated in student-athlete research (Chang et al., 2018; DeGaetano, 2014; Mooney et al., 2024), but not as a protective factor against substance use in this context. This study investigates how injury and redshirting affect substance among NCAA student-athletes and whether psychological flexibility moderates this relationship.
Data were collected cross-sectionally via an online Qualtrics survey and will be analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression to examine main effects and moderation within the model.
Data collection is nearing completion, with analyses to be completed before the ACBS World Conference 2025.
Findings will clarify these relationships and inform interventions for student-athletes (e.g., Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Implications will be presented for athletic departments and health professionals to better support student-athlete well-being.

22. Effectiveness of a Training Program to Enhance ACT Skills for Occupational Health Professionals

Categories: Professional development, Organizational / Industrial psychology, Competency of practitioner

Components: Original data

Mikihiro Hayashi, M.D., MBA, Certified Psychologist, VisMed Inc.
Kohei Watanabe, Waseda University
Kazuya Inoue, Ph.D., Ritsumeikan University
Tomu Ohtsuki, M.A., Ph.D., Waseda University

The opportunities for training ACT skills for occupational health professionals in Japan are few.
We developed a training program to enhance ACT skills for occupational health professionals in Japan, implemented it for 15 active practitioners with no prior training in ACT, and verified its effectiveness. The program consisted of a 5-hour on-demand video on basic knowledge of ACT, followed by intensive face-to-face training (2 days, 8 hours in total), and monthly case review meetings for 3 months. We also developed the ACT Competency Scale for Occupational Health Professionals.
A one-way analysis of variance was conducted to measure competencies, along with psychological flexibility (AAQ-II) and understanding of ACT (ACT check), before program participation, after the implementation of the intensive program, and three months later, to find a main effect, with multiple comparisons showing a significant increase in the competencies.
Although some limitations can be pointed out, including the reliability and validity of the competency scale, it was confirmed that a face-to-face program improves their competencies as occupational health professionals.

23. Measurement Matters: Applying Precision Teaching Discoveries to Modern Applied RFT Practice

Categories: RFT / RGB / language, Precision Teaching (measurement system)

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Sophie O Steele, M.A., Compassionate Behavior Analysis, LLC.

Precision teaching (PT) can claim itself to be a mature scientific subject fit for the task of analyzing relational operants. It is a thorough system of accurate and precise measurement. PT has made some significant discoveries about operant behavior: (1) all behavior is multiplicative, (2) frequency is a dimension of behavior, (3) all performance features are independent and (4) mastery is quantifiable. Relational frame theory (RFT) argues that the generalized operant responsible for language generativity is arbitrarily derived relational responding (ADRR).
This poster will provide applied data for a novel RFT-protocol to accelerate generative language with participants ages 11-14-years old. This study uses a multiple probe (MPD-days) across behaviors.
Results indicate that RFT and PT offer applied practitioners a comprehensive and feasible system to define, train and measure ADRR.
Applied practitioners who measure ADRR as frequencies charted on semi-logarithmic charts have empirically validated PT discoveries, and provide further support for their generality. Furthermore, RFT and PT offers a therapeutic package in which instruction is individualized according to learning profile metrics (i.e., frequency, celeration and agility).

24. Changing the Narrative: A Contextual Behavioral Science Approach to Colorism

Categories: Social justice / equity / diversity, Behavior analysis, Colorism, Mindfulness, Perspective Taking, Self-Compassion

Components: Original data

Danielle S. Jeudy, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA, Navigate Behavioral Health & The Chicago School
Meredith Andrews, Ph.D., The Chicago School

Colorism negatively impacts individuals across various backgrounds. This mixed-method study explored the effects of a perspective taking (PT) and mindfulness intervention on Black women’s self-compassion after experiencing colorism. This study was informed by Contextual Behavioral Science (CBS), particularly Relational Frame Theory (RFT).
A between-group design compared the effects of the PT and mindfulness intervention across an experimental and control group, assessing changes in self-compassionate language. A thematic analysis was also conducted to explore shifts in colorism-related themes from pre- to post-intervention.
Results showed improvements in the frequency of self-compassionate and self-criticizing statements in the experimental group compared to a slight increase in self-compassionate statements and a large increase in self-criticizing statements in the control group. Moreover, the qualitative analysis of the experimental group revealed a shift from feelings of inadequacy and storytelling to themes of pride for skin tone and common humanity and awareness.
Overall, this indicates that the PT and mindfulness intervention successfully enhanced self-compassion and reduced self-criticism in Black women experiencing colorism, providing preliminary support for this approach.

Poster Session #2 - Thursday, July 17, 2:45 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

1. Using Mindfulness-Based Resources to Support Health Care Professionals in Training: A Qualitative Analysis

Categories: Academics or education, Professional development, Mindfulness

Components: Literature review, Original data

Sulagna Chauhan, Psy.D., Kean University
Chana R Elson, M.A., Kean University
Hallie Katzman, M.A., Kean University
Hannah Blum, B.A., Kean University
Donald R. Marks, Psy.D., Kean University
Jennifer Block-Lerner, Ph.D., Kean University

Students in health professions experience unique stressors and demands. Health care students are at risk for increased burnout, depression, anxiety, (Mladen et al., 2019) and poorer quality of life (Pagnin & De Queiroz, 2015). Mindfulness-based approaches have been utilized to reduce stress, improve well-being, and train health care professionals to be compassionate and patient-centered (e.g., McConville et al., 2017; Sharma & Rush, 2014). However, most research has been conducted within the context of highly-structured interventions.
To address this gap, as part of a larger study, qualitative methods were employed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a brief mindfulness-based workshop and additional resources to support continued practice. Health care professionals in training (N = 60) were recruited from a college of health at a large state university.
Qualitative findings indicated that participants believed the intervention to be beneficial, and acknowledged challenges such as time constraints, competing responsibilities and skepticism.
Tailoring mindfulness programs to address logistical barriers and offering higher doses of intervention may enhance health care training effectiveness.

2. Perceptions of artificial intelligence in higher education: A contextual behavioral science perspective

Categories: Academics or education, Mobile or digital technology, Human adaptation

Components: Original data

Sue Kim, M.A., University of Western Ontario
Albert Malkin, Ph.D., University of Western Ontario
Daniel Ansari, Ph.D., University of Western Ontario
Nicole Neil, Ph.D., University of Western Ontario
Mark Daley, Ph.D., University of Western Ontario

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), such as ChatGPT, is drastically changing the educational landscape, including instruction and subsequent practice grounded in functional contextualism.
This study examined the interplay between technological advancements and human adaptation by exploring university students’ (n = 580) and instructors’ (n = 54) perceptions of GenAI through online surveys.
Results revealed that while both students and instructors have positive emotional responses and attitudes toward GenAI, they are also concerned about the ethical and practical challenges associated with GenAI. Notably, instructors demonstrated greater skepticism towards GenAI, stronger endorsement of GenAI use for teaching and grading, lower optimism about institutional and instructor readiness for GenAI implementation, and lower sensitivity to peers’ use of GenAI.
Implications for incorporating GenAI into instruction on contextual behavioral science, to ultimately enrich students’ learning and instructors’ teaching and research practices in higher education will be discussed.

3. The Cultural Adaptation and Implementation of an ACT Intervention for Perinatal Mental Health Conditions

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, Perinatal Mental Health

Components: Original data

Cerith Waters, DClinPsy, Ph.D., Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University; Cardiff University
Claire Traylor, Nursing Credential, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board; Cardiff University
Nicholas Pang, MBBS, HUMS
Nurfarahin Binti Musa, MBBS, HUMS, Sabah
Corine Tangau, MBBS, HUMS
Jennifer Berrett, DClinPsy, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University

The prevalence of perinatal mental health (PNMH) conditions is higher in low-to-middle income countries (LMICs). However, the evidence base for the acceptability and effectiveness of psychological interventions for PNMH conditions in LMICs is limited. We assessed the cultural adaptation and implementation of an online-delivered ACT intervention for PNMH (ACT-for-PNMH) in Malaysia.
The Cultural Adaptation (Rogers, 1995) and Ecological Validity (Bernal et al., 2009) models informed the adaptation of ACT-for-PNMH. Participants were pregnant/postnatal women and clinical staff who facilitated the intervention. Outcomes included treatment adherence and psychometric measures. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with perinatal women (Nf5) and staff (Nf7). Data was analysed using Thematic Analysis.
Analysis of facilitator interview data identified five core themes: ‘Facilitator skill’; ‘The complexity of translation’; The on-line environment’; ‘Facilitator’s alignment with ACT’ and ‘Understanding the cultural context around mothers’. 71% of women (17/24) completed treatment.
The cultural adaptation process has supported the delivery of ACT-for-PNMH within healthcare settings in Malaysia, enabling access to an evidence-based psychological intervention for women with PNMH conditions.

4. Third Wave Therapies for Perinatal Loss: A scoping review

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, Perinatal loss

Components: Literature review

India Galanti, Cardiff University
Sarah Douglass, DClinPsy, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University
Jennifer Berrett, DClinPsy, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University

Perinatal loss can lead to considerable psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, complicated grief and post-traumatic stress. Organisations highlight how third wave therapies such as ACT may be helpful for parents and their experience of grief following perinatal loss. To date, there has been no review of third-wave therapies in the area of perinatal loss. Accordingly, a scoping review was conducted exploring the use of third wave therapies within the area of perinatal loss.
PRISMA guidelines were followed, with double reviewers throughout all stages of the reviewing process. Descriptive study data was extracted.
Six studies were identified; study designs included case studies and non-randomised controlled studies. Studies were based in China (n=1), Iran (n=1), and India (n=4). All studies evaluated mindfulness-based interventions. Studies found reductions in perinatal grief (including difficulties coping with grief), perceived stress and depressive symptoms.
Whilst results provide preliminary support for the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in supporting parents following perinatal loss, the literature is scant and empirical rigour is lacking. Directions for future research are discussed.

5. ACT-for-Pregnancy After Loss: A pilot study of an ACT based group intervention

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, Perinatal loss

Components: Original data

Jennifer Berrett, DClinPsy, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University
India Galanti, Cardiff University
Cerith Waters, DClinPsy, Ph.D., Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University; Cardiff University
Sarah Douglass, DClinPsy, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff University

Approximately 15-25% of parents will experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress following perinatal loss. Although the evaluation of psychological interventions is limited, there is a growing evidence base for the implementation of mindfulness-based interventions following perinatal loss. The aim of the current study is to evaluate a novel ACT intervention for parents who have experienced perinatal loss.
This pilot study evaluated a 10-week, group-delivered ACT intervention for parents who are pregnant after loss (ACT-for-PAL). Outcomes included treatment adherence and psychometric measures. In-person and end of intervention questionnaires assessed acceptability. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.
5 women participated in the pilot group. Gestation when starting the group was between 10-28 weeks of pregnancy. Previous bereavement were all above 17 weeks gestation. Preliminary analysis suggests ACT-for-PAL is feasible, safe and acceptable.
Preliminary results suggest ACT-for-PAL is feasible, safe and acceptable as an intervention to support parents who have experienced the death of a baby. Due to the small, pilot sample size, further group delivery is recommended to capture the effectiveness of ACT-for-PAL.

6. The attitudes and preferences of veterans regarding therapeutic concepts, language, and goals

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Mobile or digital technology, Veterans

Components: Original data

Karly Daigle, University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Ezgi Söymen, M.S., Acıbadem University
Wesley Malvini, M.S., University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Joseph Brewer, M.A., University of Texas at Tyler
Lindsay Lange, M.A., M.S., University of Texas at Tyler
Jessica Criddle, M.S., Louisiana Contextual Science Research Group; Positive Development, Inc.

Acceptance, mindfulness, and self-compassion (AMSC) therapies have been found to be helpful for many psychological sequelae common in Veterans (Wisco et al., 2022). However, many Veterans do not engage in these treatments due to cultural attitudes and beliefs (Fischer et al., 2021) and treatment drop-out rates are high, indicating the need for adaptations for ongoing client engagement (Teich et al., 2017). This study explores Veterans' experiences with AMSC and related therapies to identify barriers to engagement for improving future digital interventions.
A crowdsourced sample of Veterans (n = 47) were given a survey and self-guided interview. Survey questions included ratings of therapeutic concepts and terminology, current coping mechanisms, and preferred treatment goals.
Results indicated a variety of attitudes and preferences, and quantitative results will be presented and discussed.
Results will provide a deeper understanding into sociocultural mechanisms that influence engagement, and provide a deeper understanding of cultural barriers to treatment. We anticipate that the current study will inform adaptations that consider the specific needs and preferences of Veterans to support their aims.

7. Examining the association between PBAT and DASS-21 parameters

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Depression, Anxiety and Stress, Process-Based Assessment Tool

Components: Original data

Sotia Nestoros, B.A., University of Cyprus
Katerina Georgiou, M.Sc., University of Cyprus
Maria Karekla, Ph.D., University of Cyprus

Process-based approaches, such as Process-Based Therapy (PBT), focus on personalizing therapy by targeting change processes relevant to clinical interventions. The Process-Based Assessment Tool (PBAT) is built on the principles of PBT and aims to thoroughly and longitudinally examine processes of change by assessing variation, selection, and retention of behavior. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21) is a questionnaire designed to assess depression, anxiety, and stress.
The purpose of this poster is to highlight the connections between the PBAT and the DASS-21.
Our results indicate that positive behaviors, as presented in the PBAT, show negative correlations with the DASS-21, while negative behavior items included in the PBAT, exhibit positive correlations with the DASS-21. There is a correlation between negative behaviors and high scores on the DASS -21.
These findings imply that negative behaviors are associated with worse outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety and stress), while positive behavior are associated with better outcomes as presented in the DASS-21.

8. Telehealth ACT Group for Older Veterans with Pandemic-Related Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Anxiety

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Telehealth, Older Adults

Components: Original data

Valerie Luskey, BS, University of Alabama
M. Lindsey Jacobs, Ph.D., MSPH, ABPP, The University of Alabama
Teresa A Granger, Ph.D., Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Amber N Collins, M.S., Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Hannah Apostolou, M.A., The University of Alabama
Rebecca S Allen, Ph.D., ABPP, The University of Alabama
Lori Davis, M.D., Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center

Older adults are at an increased risk for social isolation, loneliness, and undetected and unmanaged anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues.
Our study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of group-based telehealth acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that was modified to address pandemic-related isolation, loneliness, and anxiety. Fifteen Veterans participated in a 10-session ACT telehealth intervention in groups of four to five. Twelve participants (92% Black and 8% White) aged 62 to 74 (M=67) completed a post-intervention qualitative interview focused on their experience of the intervention and telehealth-delivery.
Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, resulting in the following themes: 1) positive impacts (increased connection to others and sense of committed action), 2) new knowledge and perspectives (importance of knowing one’s values and the utility of mindfulness), 3) acceptability of telehealth, and 4) telehealth barriers specific to the older population.
In summary, Veterans reported experiencing meaningful benefits from the ACT group intervention and had a positive regard for telehealth overall but emphasized the need for on-site technology support throughout the duration of the intervention.

9. Metaphor delivery and participant-rated helpfulness, comprehensibility, memorability, and psychological flexibility

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, RFT / RGB / language, Metaphor, RFT

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Federico Miggiano, Intern, UCD
Ella Joyce, Research Assistant, UCD
Louise McHugh, Ph.D., UCD
Alison Stapleton, Ph.D., C. Psychol. Ps.S.I., University College Dublin

Some research has examined whether metaphor delivery factors impact participant-rated comprehensibility and psychological flexibility. Building on this, the present study tests whether participant-rated helpfulness, comprehensibility, memorability, and psychological flexibility differs based on whether metaphors (chessboard, fingertrap, compass) were delivered experientially or didactically.
89 participants were randomly assigned to either an experiential (n = 42) or a didactic (n = 43) delivery of metaphors drawn from acceptance and commitment therapy, with participant-report collected pre- and one-week post metaphor delivery. Metaphors targeted self-as-context (chessboard), acceptance (fingertrap), and values (compass).
Overall, participants understood and remembered the intended functions of the metaphors. No significant differences were found between conditions for helpfulness, comprehensibility, and psychological flexibility. Content analysis revealed no differences between the conditions in terms of memorability.
Although the present measures of metaphor helpfulness, comprehensibility, memorability, and psychological flexibility may lack precision, the present findings have important implications for clinical practice (i.e., whether clinicians require physical props in-session). Further research is required to determine whether knowledge of therapeutic techniques impacts delivery.

10. Is defusing from self-limiting self-stories useful for adults with ADHD?

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, ADHD, Neurodivergence, Defusion, RFT

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Isabelle Murphy, HDip Psychol, Dublin Business School
Alison Stapleton, Ph.D., C. Psychol. Ps.S.I., University College Dublin

Preliminary research suggests that acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) beneficially impacts psychological wellbeing among adults with ADHD. However, it is unclear which ACT processes, if any, contribute to this beneficial impact. The present study examines whether defusion exercises impact participant-rated self-compassion, psychological flexibility, and cognitive fusion.
164 participants (74.4% ADHD, 25.6% non-ADHD) completed self-compassion, psychological flexibility, and cognitive fusion measures, before completing defusion exercises relevant to self stories. The test battery was completed immediately post-intervention and two weeks later.
Preliminary analyses revealed that both formally diagnosed and self-identifying ADHD participants reported significantly lower levels of psychological flexibility at baseline. In addition, psychological flexibility was higher immediately post-intervention across the entire sample. Finally, cognitive fusion and state self-compassion showed immediate improvements.
Brief defusion exercises display short-term benefits in participant-rated self-compassion, psychological flexibility, and cognitive fusion. Adults with ADHD may report lower levels of psychological flexibility, however, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of targeting psychological flexibility in the longer term.

11. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Survivors of Sexual Assault: A Review of the Literature

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Survivors of Sexual Assault

Components: Literature review

Francesca Bellisario, M.A., The Michigan School of Psychology
Rebecca R Cenusa, M.A., Michigan School of Psychology
River Farrell, Psy.D., Michigan School of Psychology

The purpose of this project is to examine the existing literature regarding the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with survivors of sexual assault to better facilitate an understanding of ACT’s efficacy and effectiveness when used in this population.
A review of the available literature on utilizing ACT with survivors of SA was conducted. A summary, critique, and call for further research is presented.
Fifteen pieces of relevant literature were analyzed for themes, including several broader trauma-focused resources due to the limited available research on specifically using ACT with SA survivors. Results indicated that ACT increased a person's ability to maintain contact with the present moment, thus decreasing experiential avoidance.
Literature repeatedly mentions the high dropout rates of many treatments as usual interventions due to intensity, while ACT has a lower dropout rate, possibly due to the formation of skills. The implications of this fact, provide support for utilizing ACT either as individual intervention or in adjunct to treatment as usual.

12. Cognitive Functioning and Education as Moderators of ACT Outcomes in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, Moderators of ACT

Components: Original data

Megan F. Noonan, B.S., Indiana University Indianapolis
Ashley Lewson, M.S., Indiana University Indianapolis
Shieun Lee, Ph.D., Indiana University Indianapolis
Stella Snyder, M.S., Indiana University Indianapolis
Shelley A Johns, Psy.D., ABPP, Indiana University Indianapolis, Regenstrief Institute Inc.
Catherine E Mosher, Ph.D., Indiana University Indianapolis

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) requires understanding abstract concepts, such as mindfulness. Cognitive functioning and educational attainment may moderate ACT’s effects yet remain largely unexamined. Thus, this study examined whether baseline self-reported cognitive functioning and years of education moderated ACT’s effects on fatigue interference and depressive symptoms in patients with metastatic breast cancer.
Patients (Nf250) were randomized to six weekly sessions of ACT or education/support, and outcomes were assessed up to 6 months post-intervention.
Results of multilevel models indicated that cognitive functioning did not significantly moderate ACT’s effects on outcomes. Whereas education did not moderate ACT’s effect on fatigue interference, it significantly moderated ACT’s effect on depressive symptoms (b=-0.71, p=0.04). A pick-a-point analysis showed that for patients with lower education (one standard deviation below the mean), higher depressive symptoms were reported in the ACT condition than in the education/support condition (b=2.69, p=0.04). No significant differences between conditions emerged for those with average or higher education.
While differences between study conditions were small, findings suggest a need to enhance ACT’s accessibility for patients with lower education.

13. Universal Brief Online ACT for University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Health / behavioral medicine, Digital ACT

Components: Original data

So Sugita, BSc, Waseda University
Kazuya Inoue, Ph.D., Ritsumeikan University
Tomu Ohtsuki, M.A., Ph.D., Waseda University

Universal interventions are recommended to reduce the general burden of psychological distress and support early prevention of mental health problems. This study evaluated the efficacy of a brief digital self-help ACT.
Forty-three undergraduate students without a prior psychiatric diagnosis were randomly assigned to a two-week ACT (n=22) or a waitlist control group (n=21). The intervention consisted of seven 5-minute psychoeducational videos covering the six core processes of ACT. Participants’ knowledge of the psychological flexibility model (PF) and ACT (ACT Check: Inoue et al., 2023), psychological inflexibility (PI: AAQ-II: Shima et al., 2013), and psychological distress (K6: Prochaska et al., 2012) were measured.
No significant differences between the two groups at post-intervention for knowledge of PF (d=0.86, 95% CI -0.10 to 1.83), PI (d=-0.22, 95% CI -1.20 to 0.75), or distress (d=-0.18, 95% CI -0.67 to 0.31). However, greater knowledge of PF predicted lower PI (b=0.76, t(41)=3.09, p=.004), and in turn, distress (b=0.40, t(41)=6.40, p<.001) at post-treatment.
Although the intervention effects were not found, the findings support the role of processes targeted by the intervention.

14. Are you willing to restructure your thoughts on defusion for depression?

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, ACT, CBT, Depression, Cognitive restructuring, Willingness, Defusion, Component, Depression, Process

Components: Original data

Ella P Kerr, Southern Illinois University
Andrew Wall, M.S., Southern Illinois University
Hannah M Johnson, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Houston Howard, M.S., Southern Illinois University
Eric Lee, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University

CBT and ACT are both effective treatments for depression Cognitive Restructuring and Cognitive Defusion both reduce depression Lack of research on willingness Do they work through the same processes?
The sample included 91 participants, with 47 in the cognitive restructuring (CR) condition and 44 in the defusion/willingness (D/W) condition. Participants completed a one-week daily thought record targeting an unwanted core belief. Data were analyzed using multilevel modeling (MLM).
PHQ-9: Depression Symptoms Condition: F(1, 89.0)=4.35, p=0.04 Time: F(1, 87.6)=112.14, p< 0.001 Time x Condition: F(1, 87.6)=0.49, p=0.485 CR: g=1.63; D/W: g=1.23 CCTS-SR: Cognitive Change Condition: F(1, 89.2)=0.03, p=0.85 Time: F(1, 89.2)=74.53, p<.001 Time x Condition: F(1, 89.2)=0.08, p=0.78 CompACT: Openness to Experience Condition: F(1, 88.1)=0.06, p=0.81 Time: F(1, 86.7)=2.49, p=0.12 Time x Condition: F(1,86.7)=0.81, p=0.37
CR and D/W both reduced depression from pre- to post-treatment, with CR showing significantly lower depression at post-treatment. Both approaches operate through reductions in automatic thoughts and core belief change. ACT processes may be harder to understand, apply, and measure.

15. Investigating Healthcare Providers Knowledge of Trichotillomania Diagnosis, Treatment and Recommendations

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Dissemination or global health strategies, Trichotillomania, Healthcare Providers, Health psychology, BFRBs

Components: Original data

Ella P Kerr, Southern Illinois University
Hannah M Johnson, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Houston Howard, M.S., Southern Illinois University
Eric Lee, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University

Despite their prevalence, BFRB research is limited compared to other clinical disorders. A unique aspect of trichotillomania is it's physical presentation, which may lead individuals with trichotillomania to seek medical rather than psychiatric care. This study examines healthcare professionals' knowledge of trichotillomania and their treatment recommendations. Using vignettes with diverse presentations, it will assess providers' diagnostic accuracy. Participants will answer questions to gauge their familiarity with trichotillomania, including diagnosis, treatment, and general knowledge.
This study will compare knowledge scores across experience levels. Participants will be categorized by years of experience and assessed on vignette response accuracy. Each participant will receive an overall knowledge score, and a one-way ANOVA will test for significant differences based on experience.
As the study is still ongoing, results are not yet available. Data is anticipated to be collected in late spring, findings will be reported in time for the conference presentation.
Pending data collection and analysis, the discussion may address collaboration between physical and mental healthcare, healthcare worker training, and barriers or pathways to optimal care for patients with TTM.

16. Public Perceptions of Exposure and Response Prevention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Categories: Dissemination or global health strategies, Exposure Therapy

Components: Original data

Hannah M Johnson, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Andrew Wall, M.S., Southern Illinois University
Myles Arendtson, M.A., Southern Illinois University
Houston Howard, M.A., Southern Illinois University
Ella Kerr, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Eric Lee, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University

Despite the established efficacy of exposure and response prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder, it is commonly underutilized by practitioners due to misconceptions and fears about negative outcomes. However, it is unknown if the general population holds similar misgivings.
The current study attempted to gauge public perceptions of exposure and response prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder using a series of surveys and vignettes in an online sample (n = 495).
Half of the sample was unfamiliar with exposure and response prevention. Respondents rated exposure effectiveness below many alternate interventions, some of which have been shown to exacerbate obsessive-compulsive symptoms. In general, participants viewed the examples of exposure therapy as traumatizing, dangerous, unethical, and ineffective at treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. These views were consistent for exposures related to contamination, responsibility for harm, and unacceptable thoughts, but not for “not just right” experiences.
These results highlight the importance of efforts to inform the public of evidence-based treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

17. Observing Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors Through an Idiographic Lens Using Network Analysis

Categories: Methods/approaches for individual variation, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

Components: Original data

Hannah M Johnson, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Ella Kerr, B.S., Southern Illinois University
Eric Lee, Ph.D., Southern Illinois University
Houston Howard, M.A., Southern Illinois University

Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) are a class of behaviors including problematic hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting, and lip and mouth chewing. The current study utilized idiographic observational methods to investigate the internal cognitive and emotional processes and functioning of individuals with BFRBs.
Five women participants with BFRBs of varying severities participated in the study. Data was collected multiple times per day over the course of two weeks. Contemporaneous network analysis was conducted for each individual which examined the role picking/pulling had on functioning and internal states.
The results provide a unique picture of each participant and demonstrate the heterogeneity found within BFRBs processes. Unique manifestations include (a) cognitive anxiety and experiential avoidance, (b) pulling to reduce physical sensations of anxiety (c) shame and trance-like episodes (d) impulsivity, and (e) perfectionism and distress intolerance.
The results of this study indicate the unique variability of individuals with BFRBs and the mechanisms maintaining pathology, thus giving support for the individualization of assessment and treatment of BFRBs.

18. A Thematic Analysis of College Students’ Concerns Expressed in Reflective and Standard Journaling Conditions

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Processes of change, College Students

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Hannah Blum, Psy.D., Kean University
Louly Kaplan, Psy.D., Kean University
Shira Pollack, Psy.D., Kean University
Ashley Taylor, Psy.D., Kean University
Jonah D McManus, M.S., Kean University
Jennifer Lerner, Ph.D., Kean University
Donald Marks, Ph.D., Psy.D., Kean University

Academic and personal stress can jeopardize college students’ psychological well-being and academic performance (Grimes & Binder, 2021). It is crucial to understand what is contributing to this psychological distress and explore different avenues to relieve it.
In this study, we use Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-step thematic analysis process to identify recurring patterns and themes among college students who participated in reflective journal writing that also aimed to foster psychological flexibility processes (Hayes et al., 2006). Through an analysis of 39 journal entries, gleaned from responses to a reflective journaling prompt or a standard journaling prompt, researchers coded and compared themes from the intervention and control groups.
Psychological States, Quality of Relationships and Work-Life Balance were the themes identified. The discussion of individuals’ psychological states occurred significantly more often in the experimental condition, with no noticeable differences among the other themes.
Our findings convey nuance about emotions and will guide research to further inform prevention and intervention to aid in the wellbeing of college students.

19. Effect of AI-selected mobile cognitive behavioral therapies on nurse burnout: A randomized controlled trial

Categories: Mobile or digital technology, Health / behavioral medicine, AI, Health professional, Mindfulness, ACT

Components: Original data

Gumhee Baek, M.S., Ewha Womans University
Yeongeun Kim, M.S., Dongnam Institute of Radiological & Medical Science
Chiyoung Cha, Ph.D., FAAN, RN, Ewha Womans University

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a four-week AI-selected cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reduce nurse burnout.
In this randomized controlled trial, 125 nurses participated in the study (experimental = 62, control = 63) between October 2024 and January 2025. Burnout, job stress, stress response, and coping strategies were measured. Data analysis used t-tests and RMANOVA with job stress and stress response as covariates. Interview data from five participants were analyzed using thematic content analysis.
The experimental group showed significantly reduced client-related (F = 7.548, p = .007), personal (F = 6.533, p = .012), and work-related burnout (F = 38.194, p < .0001); job stress (t = 3.724, p < .0001); and stress response (t = 2.787, p = .007). Qualitative findings indicated that participants had confidence in the selection of CBTs by the AI algorithm.
This study suggests that AI-selected mobile CBT can mitigate nurse burnout while improving job stress and stress response. Future research should explore the sustainability of these effects and optimize intervention duration to enhance engagement and impact.

20. Well-Being and Working Skills Among University Staff: Investigating the Impact of an Online ACT-based Program - Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipient

Categories: Organizational / Industrial psychology, Academics or education, Psychological flexibility, Working skills, Occupational well-being, ACT

Components: Original data

Veera S Lampinen, M.Sc., University of Helsinki
Viktoria Balla, Ph.D., University of Helsinki
Nina Katajavuori, Ph.D., University of Helsinki
Henna Asikainen, Ph.D., University of Helsinki

While university staff face significant stressors impacting both their well-being and student outcomes, their mental health remains largely overlooked compared to student mental health (Hammoudi et al., 2023; Meeks et al., 2023). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy interventions show promise in supporting well-being through psychological flexibility, but their effectiveness in academic staff settings remains unclear.
85 employees of University of Helsinki staff (age: M=44.78, SD=9.17) participated in an online self-guided and self-paced ACT-based intervention. Participants’ psychological flexibility, mental well-being, perceived stress, burnout, organized work skills and procrastination were measured at pre- and post-intervention with weekly engagement measures and qualitative answers regarding their well-being and course content.
Paired samples t-tests revealed significant decreases in participants’ psychological flexibility (t(84)= -3.83, p<.001) and procrastination (t(84)= -2.65, p<.05.) from pre-intervention to post-intervention. Increased psychological flexibility was associated with increased mental well-being (r(83)= 0.35, p=.001) and decreased perceived stress (r(83)=-0.34, p=.001). Further mixed methods analyses will be conducted for the conference.
These results suggest a self-guided ACT intervention can improve psychological flexibility, but long-term follow-ups are needed to investigate long-term change.

21. The Roles of Experiential Avoidance and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation in the Interpersonal Process of Intimacy

Categories: Interpersonal Process Model of Intimacy

Components: Original data

Daniel Maitland, Ph.D., University of Missouri - Kansas City
Sarah L.A. Welte, B.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City

According to the interpersonal process model of intimacy, closeness forms through a reciprocal dyadic process of self-disclosure and responsiveness. Behaviors used for emotional regulation can hinder this process. One such class of behaviors, experiential avoidance, occurs when individuals avoid engaging with distressing internal experiences such as thoughts, feelings and emotions. Experiential avoidance may impact willingness to engage in vulnerability and effectiveness of responding to others vulnerability. Limited research has explored these phenomena together. The current study sought to address the gap in literature.
Eighty-one participants completed a modified version of Aron et al’s (1997) fast friends' procedure. Participants and research assistants engaged in forty-five-minute conversation increasing in potential vulnerability as conversation progressed. Before the experiment, participants completed measures of experiential avoidance and difficulties in emotional regulation. Participants reported vulnerability, responsiveness, and interpersonal closeness before, at midpoint, and after completion.
MLMED and PROCESS SPSS macros will present mediation and moderation analysis.
Results will be discussed focusing on the role of emotional regulation and experiential avoidance in the different facets of the interpersonal process model of intimacy.

22. Exploring the Impact of Values Clarification and Self-Compassion on Mental Health Self-Stigma - Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipient

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, Mental Health Stigma

Components: Original data

Sara V White, M.A., University at Albany, SUNY
Leah R Howard, M.A., University at Albany, SUNY
Te'Airra DeCount, B.A., University at Albany, SUNY
John P Forsyth, Ph.D., University at Albany, SUNY

Mental health self-stigma (MHSS), or internalized negative public attitudes toward those with mental health conditions, is associated with detrimental outcomes. Increasing research has focused on self-compassion-based interventions aimed at reducing MHSS. Although self-compassion may be an important mechanism of change, individuals high in MHSS may experience frames of opposition when engaging in compassionate self-talk. Thus, research ought to investigate alternative ways to generate self-compassion. Clarifying one’s personal values may benefit individuals high in MHSS by providing self-affirmation, thus producing greater self-compassion without evoking resistance.
The present study evaluated whether self-compassion mediates relations between values clarification and MHSS. Undergraduates (N =906, Mage = 18.65) completed measures including, the Self-Stigma of Seeking Psychological Help Scale, Self-Compassion Scale, and Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory.
As anticipated, greater contact with values predicted lower MHSS (B= -1.27, SE=.21, p < .001). Yet, this relation was partially mediated by self-compassion (B-.25, SE=.09, 95% CI= [-.44, -.07]).
Our findings suggest that both contact with values and self-compassion may be relevant to reducing MHSS. Clinical implications and future directions will be discussed.

23. Self-Transcendence and Self-As-Context Mediate Relations Between Depression and Life Satisfaction

Categories: Processes of change, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Self-Transcendence

Components: Original data

TeAirra Decount, B.A., University at Albany, State University of New York
Sara V White, M.A., University at Albany, SUNY
Leah Howard, M.A.
John P Forsyth, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology

Depression involves the unhelpful dominance of negative self-evaluations (e.g., “I am worthless”), leading to reduced well-being. In contrast, self-transcendence (ST) and self-as-context (SAC) are regarded as complex relational constructs, allowing individuals to defuse from self-conceptualizations and view oneself in a broader context. Shared qualities of ST and SAC may promote well-being and reduce distress associated with negative self-evaluations.
The present study examines SAC and ST in a single model. Undergraduates (Nf906, Mage=18.65) completed the Questionnaire on Self-Transcendence, Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, and Satisfaction with Life Scale. SAC and ST were evaluated as mediators between depression and life satisfaction.
Bivariate correlations showed a strong association between SAC and ST (r=.60). Regression analyses indicated depression inversely predicted life satisfaction (B=-.43, S.E.=.02, p<.001). Relations between depression and life satisfaction were further partially mediated by SAC (B=-.02, 95% C.I.=[-.03, -.01]) and ST (B=-.03, 95% C.I.=[-.04, -.01]).
Findings demonstrate both shared and distinct features of SAC and ST, underscoring their potential to mitigate distress and promote well-being. Clinical and theoretical implications are discussed.

24. The Mindful Resiliency in Recovery Model: Empowering the Transcendence of Stigma

Categories: Theory and philosophical foundations, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Mindfulness

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review

David "Ikela" I.K. Moniz-Lewis, M.S., University of New Mexico

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) effectively treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and reduce internalized stigma, with seemingly unique benefits for marginalized populations relative to "second-wave" approaches. The Mindful Resiliency in Recovery Model (MRRM) is a novel theoretical framework that clarifies how MBIs foster resilience and reduce internalized stigma in SUD recovery among marginalized individuals.
This narrative review synthesizes empirical literature to support the MRRM’s core premises of how MBIs reduce internalized-stigma and foster resilience. The review (January–May 2024) included only peer-reviewed studies from PubMed and PsycINFO, excluding grey literature.
Preliminary evidence supports the MRRM. MBIs reduce internalized stigma and shame in SUDs via processes like psychological flexibility, acceptance, and self-compassion. The MRRM posits that contextual factors moderate these effects, though evidence is limited; though, MBIs enhance contextual factors (e.g., recovery capital) in recovery.
The MRRM optimizes MBIs to help marginalized individuals transcend stigma and actualize well-being. It guides clinical adaptations and offers testable hypotheses of MBI efficacy. While additional research is needed, particularly on contextual moderation, the MRRM informs tailored, contextually-sensitive interventions to foster resilience in recovery.

Poster Session #3 - Friday, July 18, 2:45 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

1. Functional assessment training to improve psychology students’ skills in assessing clients’ experiential avoidance

Categories: Academics or education, Professional development, Functional assessment, Training, Experiential avoidance, Psychology students

Components: Original data

Masanori Matsukawa, M.A, Graduate School of Psychology, Doshisha University, Japan
Aiko Ohya, Ph.D., Faculty of Psychology, Doshisha University, Japan

Functional assessment of a client’s experiential avoidances (EAs) is crucial for effective psychotherapy outcomes. This study examined whether functional assessment training for psychology students enhances their ability to identify clients’ EAs.
Thirty psychology students were divided into experimental (17) and control (13) groups. The experimental group performed an ABC analysis using fictitious client lines. Conversely, the control group was asked to imagine the scenes in the photographs. Students’ skills were evaluated through their detailed descriptions of clients’ EAs in the videos at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up after one week. The questionnaires FFMQ and TSSQ were also administered at the same three points.
The experimental group showed a significant improvement in providing correct descriptions of clients’ EAs (from pre- to post-intervention: p = .012, d = .61, and from pre-intervention to follow-up: p = .004, d = .74). By contrast, no significant improvement was observed in the control group (p = .777, ηp2 =.01, n.s.) and the questionnaires.
The results suggest that functional assessment training enhances psychology students’ EA assessment skills directly.

2. Why We Hide: Self-Concealment, Rule-Governed Behavior, and Loneliness in Emerging Adults

Categories: Processes of change, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Self-Concealment, Psychological Flexibility, Loneliness, Rule-Governed Behavior.

Components: Original data

Ruta Shashikant Dighe, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler

Loneliness is associated with negative mental and physical health outcomes, particularly in young adults (Surgeon General, 2023; Lim et al., 2020). Self-concealment, or the tendency to withhold distressing personal information, may function as a form of experiential avoidance, contributing to persistent social disconnection (Larson et al., 2015). Within a contextual behavioral science (CBS) framework, psychological inflexibility and rule-governed behavior—especially pliance—are key processes that may explain these patterns (Kashdan & Rottenberg, 2010; Kelly et al., 2022).
Undergraduate students (N = 306; data collection ongoing) completed validated self-report measures assessing loneliness (UCLA-LS), self-concealment, psychological inflexibility (MPFI), and rule-governed behavior (GPQ-9). Participants also engaged in a gratitude writing task and indicated whether they shared their letter, providing a behavioral indicator of social openness.
Preliminary analyses suggest positive associations between self-concealment, pliance, psychological inflexibility, and loneliness. Mediation analyses will examine psychological inflexibility as a pathway linking self-concealment to loneliness.
These findings may highlight behavioral processes contributing to social isolation and inform low-cost, process-based interventions to reduce loneliness by promoting psychological flexibility and values-consistent social behavior.

3. Tracking as Social Adaptability: How Context-Responsive Behavior Predicts Social Connection

Categories: Behavior analysis, Processes of change, Tracking, Psychological Flexibility, Loneliness, Social Connection, Rule-Governed Behavior

Components: Original data

Ruta Shashikant Dighe, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler

Social connection is critical for well-being, yet loneliness remains a prevalent issue among young adults (Surgeon General, 2023). Contextual Behavioral Science (CBS) differentiates Tracking (context-sensitive behavior) from Pliance (rigid rule-following for approval; Daks & Rogge, 2020). While excessive Pliance is linked to inflexibility and distress, Tracking may promote social adaptability and openness. This study examines whether higher Tracking predicts lower loneliness, greater psychological-flexibility, and increased social openness.
Participants (N = 306; data collection ongoing) completed measures of Tracking and Pliance (GPQ-9), Loneliness (UCLA-LS), and Psychological Inflexibility (MPFI). A behavioral indicator of social openness was assessed via a gratitude letter-writing task, where participants chose to share or keep their letter private.
Preliminary analyses indicate that Tracking is negatively associated with loneliness and inflexibility. Additionally, individuals with higher Tracking scores were significantly more likely to share their gratitude letter, suggesting greater social openness.
Findings highlight Tracking as a potential resilience factor in social connection. Interventions that promote adaptive, values-based social behavior may enhance well-being and reduce loneliness by encouraging flexible, context-responsive actions rather than rigid social rule-following.

4. The Impact of Self-Compassionate Writing Intervention on Shame and Guilt in College Students

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Mobile or digital technology, Self-Compassion, Shame, Guilt, College Students, Mental Health Intervention

Components: Original data

Ruta Shashikant Dighe, B.S., University of Texas-Tyler
Olga Berkout, Ph.D., University of Texas-Tyler

Shame and guilt contribute to psychological distress, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression (Tangney et al., 1994). College students face unique stressors that exacerbate these emotions (Bentley et al., 2018). While traditional interventions are effective, they are often resource-intensive (Schleider et al., 2022). Writing-based interventions, such as self-compassionate letter writing, offer a low-cost, accessible alternative (Wong & Mak, 2016). This study evaluates the efficacy of a brief self-compassionate writing intervention in reducing state-level shame and guilt while enhancing self-compassion.
Students (18+) at a public university participate anonymously via an online platform. Pre- and post-intervention assessments include the State Self-Compassion Scale—Short Form (S-SCS-SF; Neff et al., 2020) and State Shame and Guilt Scale—Short Form (SSGS-8; Cavalera et al., 2017). Participants complete a guided "Letter to My Past Self" exercise.
Data collection is ongoing; however, prior research suggests significant reductions in shame and guilt and increased self-compassion post-intervention (Johnson & O’Brien, 2013).
Findings will contribute to scalable mental health interventions, offering a low-cost alternative for college students experiencing distress (Leary et al., 2007).

5. Can we meaningfully capture self-as-context in natural language?

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, RFT / RGB / language, RFT, Selfing, Self-as-Context, FSDM

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Edoardo Pomponio, Intern, UCD
Ella Joyce, Research Assistant, UCD
Louise McHugh, Ph.D., UCD
Alison Stapleton, Ph.D., C. Psychol. Ps.S.I., University College Dublin

At present, one behavioral measure (i.e., the Functional Self-Discrimination Measure; FSDM) of self-as-context has been developed. However, there is limited research examining the suitability of FSDM self-as-context codes.
For the present study, a convenience sample of adults (n = 53) responded to open-ended questions about the self which were analysed using an adapted version of the FSDM qualitative coding framework. The relationships between quantitative self-reported self-as-context scores (QUEST) and FSDM code frequencies were examined.
Results were largely consistent with theory, with FSDM SX1 variables associated with higher scores on the QUEST ‘Distancing’ subscale and FSDM SX2 variables associated with higher scores on the QUEST ‘Observing’ subscale. Theoretically incongruent findings involving the QUEST ‘Inter-transcendence’ subscale and FSDM self-as-content codes were also found.
Findings are discussed in relation to the suitability of FSDM SX codes and the validity of self-as-context measurement approaches. Findings are further discussed in terms of whether the absence of utterances consistent with SX codes, or indeed the presence of utterances disagreeing with SX codes (e.g., "I am my thoughts"), are clinically useful.

6. Postpartum Mental Health Treatment Through Acceptance and Commitment Group Therapy in a Collaborative Care Model

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Academics or education, Postpartum Mental Health

Components: Original data

Gloria Petruzzelli, Psy.D., University of California, Davis, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

One in five postpartum women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), which, if untreated, pose long-term risks to maternal and child health. Access to timely and adequate care during the postpartum period is critical.
Six postpartum women were referred to participate in the 8-week ACT group. Five completed the full intervention. Participants were referred through the Women’s Mental Health Team, a multidisciplinary team consisting of psychiatrists, psychiatry residents, and a psychologist.
Findings support the integration of ACT into standard postpartum care models and the importance of a collaborative care framework. Participants indicated a preference for the small-group format that fostered connection and engagement, supporting the feasibility of ACT in postpartum mental health care.
This poster highlights the role of interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of ACT as an evidence-based, patient-centered approach within integrated psychiatry departments. The study was limited by the small sample size (n=6), and, the participant demographic lacked diversity. Despite limitations, participant feedback underscores the feasibility and value of ACT as the primary modality for the treatment of PMADS.

7. Exploring Benefits of a Follow-Up Booster Session for Compassion-Focused ACT

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, ACT, CFT, Single-case experimental design (SCED)

Components: Case presentation, Literature review, Original data

Jacob Schrier, M.A., Kean University
Nicholas L Dynan, M.A., Kean University
Sarah L Kuper, M.A., Kean University
Leslie Regan, M.A., Kean University
Donald R Marks, Psy.D., Kean University
Zach R Setton, M.A., Kean University
Jennifer R Lerner, Ph.D., Kean University

Compassion-focused acceptance and commitment therapy (CFACT; Tirch et al., 2014) is a novel therapeutic intervention integrating elements of compassion-focused therapy (CFT; Gilbert, 2009) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT; Hayes et al., 2012). CFACT targets “compassionate flexibility,” a process that involves adaptability and kindness toward self and others.
Using a multiple baseline SCED (N = 5), the study implemented a 16-session protocol for individual outpatient treatment, adding a single booster session at 1 month posttreatment. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale–21 (DASS-21; Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995) was used to assess psychological distress, while the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS; Neff, 2003) and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II (AAQ-II; Bond et al., 2011) were used to assess compassionate responding and psychological flexibility respectively.
Study variables were tracked during a pre-intervention baseline period, then monitored via repeated measures during treatment, 1-month posttreatment (before the booster), and 1 week following the booster. Visual inspection of individual treatment trajectories suggests benefits to augmenting CFACT with a booster session.
Implications for delivery of CFACT and maintenance of treatment gains are explored.

8. Impostors No More: A Brief ACT Intervention Meets Process-Based Assessment

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Organizational / Industrial psychology, RNT-ACT, Process-based measures

Components: Original data

Andreas Larsson, M.Sc., Ph.D., Lic Psychologist, Mid Sweden University
Tina Shahmalekpour, M.Sc., Mid Sweden University
Carl-Johan Moss, M.Sc., Mid Sweden University
Angelika Forsnacke, M.Sc., Mid Sweden University

The impostor phenomenon (IP) is characterized by self-doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud, despite objective competence (Clance & Imes, 1978). IP is associated with repetitive negative thinking (RNT), cognitive fusion, and psychological inflexibility (Bravata et al., 2020). ACT effectively targets these transdiagnostic processes (Hayes et al., 2006).
Seventeen adult participants with elevated IP and RNT were recruited. The intervention consisted of three 2-hour online ACT sessions over two weeks, focusing on defusion, acceptance, values, and flexible self-relatedness. Data were collected at baseline, mid-, and post-intervention
Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant effects. Participants showed notable decreases in IP and RNT symptoms. PBAT results indicate positive shifts in psychological flexibility, particularly within the dimensions of attention, cognition, and self-related processes, in line with ACT’s targeted mechanisms. Qualitative interviews (n = 8) explore participants’ subjective experiences of key process changes.
Findings suggest the intervention reduces IP symptoms and RNT, while also improving ACT-relevant processes as captured by PBAT. This aligns with contemporary calls within PBT to move beyond symptom-focused outcomes and investigate process-level dynamics.

9. Perceived Causal Problem Networks: A Process-Based Perspective

Categories: Processes of change, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Process-Based Therapy, EEMM, Network Analysis, Psychological Flexibility

Components: Original data

Andreas Larsson, M.Sc., Ph.D., Lic Psychologist, Mid Sweden University
Janina Svensgård, M.Sc., Jämtland Härjedalen County
Lars Klintwall, Ph.D., Karolinska Institute

Psychological networks illustrate symptom relationships but are rarely applied in therapy. This study explores Perceived Causal Networks (PECAN) integrated with the Extended Evolutionary Meta-Model (EEMM) to capture how individuals perceive causality in their difficulties, offering a process-based approach to conceptualizing distress and guiding intervention strategies.
Participants mapped problem areas (nodes) and perceived causal relationships (edges) using EEMM categories (affect, cognition, attention, self, motivation, overt behavior). A think-aloud cognitive interviewing method captured insights, and thematic analysis identified key process-based therapeutic targets emerging from participants’ network constructions.
Participants gained new insights into their difficulties, identifying nodes central to distress. Common themes included increased psychological flexibility, awareness of previously unnoticed connections, and greater personal agency. Networks highlighted process-based therapeutic targets, helping clients reframe problems dynamically.
PECAN offers a novel approach to process-based therapy by enhancing case conceptualization. Future studies should examine its impact on psychological flexibility and treatment outcomes.

10. Climate Change Anxiety, Nature Connection, and Compassion: Impacts on Wellbeing and Environmental Action

Categories: Environmental problems, Processes of change, Compassion

Components: Original data

Armando Santos Prata, M.Sc., University of Coimbra
Marcela Matos, Ph.D., University of Coimbra, Portugal

Climate change poses a significant threat to human physical and mental health, with extreme climate events linked to poor mental health outcomes. The current study examined the mediator effect of climate change anxiety and pro-environmental behaviours on the relationship between connection to nature (CNS) and wellbeing (WB), and whether self-compassion (SC) and receiving compassion from others (CFO) moderate these effects.
Using a cross-sectional design, 510 participants completed online self-report measures.
Two moderated mediation models were analysed. The first showed a significant direct effect of connection to nature on well-being, with self-compassion significantly moderating this relationship. Climate change anxiety and environmental action were significant mediators of the association between connection to nature and wellbeing. The second model revealed a significant direct effect of connection to nature on well-being, with compassion from others significantly moderating this relationship. Climate change anxiety and environmental action emerged as significant mediators of the association between connection to nature and wellbeing.
These findings highlight the need for nature-based interventions integrated with compassion-focused programs to enhance well-being and environmental action.

11. Value Affirmation as a behavioral catalyst for Monitoring Steroid Toxicity in Rheumatism: A Content Analysis: Greece & Cyprus Chapter Sponsored

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Values

Components: Original data

Vasilis S Vasiliou, Ph.D., University of Oxford, NDORMS
Victoria Theocharous, M.Sc., Royal Holloway, University of London
Raashid Luqmani, M.D., University of Oxford, NDORMS
Sarah Mackie, M.D., University of Leeds
Christina Ponte, M.D., University of Lisbon

Glucocorticoids are the primary treatment for inflammation in Rheumatic conditions (Robson et al., 2018a), but their necessary long-term use, lead to steroid toxicity, causing both physical and psychological disturbances (Lyne et al., 2014). Although assessment methods for steroid toxicity exist, they are rarely utilized in clinical practice (Theocharous, 2024). Brief, personalized value-affirmation interventions, aim to improve medical adherence, can promote behavioral intentions (Finitsis et al., 2019).
This study explored how value affirmation can function as determinant, influencing the adoption of steroid toxicity assessment methods. We conducted content analyses, coding data based on key value-related terms, of 18 qualitative interviews of people with Rheumatic conditions, taking medium to high doses of steroids.
Three main themes emerged: (1) the need for increased cognitive and psychological resources, (2) greater clarity on steroid toxicity and its impact, and (3) a stronger intrinsic motivation to monitor toxicity.
Findings indicate affirming personal values can play a role beyond information delivery, suggesting potential for personalised, process-based value-affirmation interventions to increase steroid toxicity assessment in rheumatism care.

12. Mothers Need Help: Postpartum Women who use Multiple Substances

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Substance Use

Components: Original data

Yolanda R Villarreal, Ph.D., University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Thomas Northrup, Ph.D., University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Angela Stotts, Ph.D., University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Prenatal polysubstance use is linked to continued substance use, worsening mental health, compromised parenting, and legal issues post-delivery. Women using multiple substances during pregnancy may be motivated to engage in health-seeking behaviors but often do not present to regular prenatal care, necessitating novel identification methods.
Our secondary analysis of mothers (Nf64) who delivered a substance-exposed infant to the NICU found that women using polysubstances were less likely to attend prenatal appointments (Posterior Probability (PP)=99%), more depressed (PP=98%), engaged in binge drinking (PP=91%) and HIV risk-behaviors (PP=99%) more than those using only cannabis.
However, they were more motivated to stop substance-use (PP=90%), seek treatment (PP=90%), and obtain birth control (PP=80%).
Women using polysubstances are highly willing to engage in health-seeking behaviors but are at risk of being lost within health systems. Identifying women with prenatal polysubstance use postpartum in the hospital after delivery, when motivation to engage in health-seeking behaviors is high, is an opportune time to link them with substance-use treatment, reproductive care and medication to reduce HIV acquisition risks.

13. Navigating Loss in Healthcare: A Descriptive Study on Provider Support and Needs

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Professional Bereavement

Components: Original data

Ameena Ahmed, Psy.D., Children's National Hospital
Summer Chahin, Ph.D., Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine

Healthcare providers frequently encounter patient deaths in their work, making it one of the most emotionally challenging professional experiences (Feng et al., 2024). While personal grief is widely recognized, professional bereavement often remains unaddressed, contributing to burnout, compassion fatigue, and impaired clinical decision-making (AAMC, 2023). Lichtenthal (2018) calls for greater efforts to identify providers in need, reduce care barriers, and establish bereavement support standards.
This study employs a cross-sectional, observational, anonymous survey of an initial sample of 49 healthcare professionals (51% psychologists, 18.4% social workers, 10.2% physicians, 8.2% nurses, 12.2% other). Demographic characteristics include 83.7% women, 77.6% white, and 45.8% Christian.
Most participants (95.9%) had experienced patient loss, yet 66.7% reported never receiving training on processing these deaths. Available institutional resources were inconsistent: 44.9% could access support, while 30.6% reported barriers, primarily time constraints (100%). Common personal coping strategies included informal peer support (79.2%), time with loved ones (66.7%), and hobbies (56.3%).
Findings highlight gaps in training and access, emphasizing the need for systemic interventions. These findings represent preliminary data, with further data collection ongoing.

14. Psychological Flexibility and Self-Criticism in Weight Loss Journeys

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Processes of change, ACT, RFT, Weight Management, Psychological Flexibility, Emotional Eating

Components: Literature review

Ella Samhat, M.A., Michigan School of Psychology
River Farrell, Psy.D., Michigan School of Psychology

Self-criticism is a barrier to weight management, contributing to distress, maladaptive eating, and weight regain. Individuals struggling with self-criticism often experience weight self-stigma, body-image dissatisfaction, and difficulty sustaining change. Psychological flexibility, central to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is linked to well-being and adherence to healthier behaviors. ACT fosters acceptance, cognitive defusion, and values-based action, reducing emotional eating and promoting weight management.
This literature review synthesizes findings from ten peer-reviewed studies on ACT-based interventions for weight management, selected from databases based on relevance to self-stigma, emotional eating, and psychological flexibility.
Studies indicate ACT reduces weight self-stigma and body dissatisfaction. Mindfulness-based approaches, which share ACT mechanisms, also decrease binge and emotional eating through present-moment awareness. Relational Frame Theory (RFT) describes self-criticism functions as a rule-governed behavior, reinforcing distress and maladaptive eating. ACT disrupts these patterns through defusion and acceptance strategies.
Despite promising outcomes, ACT faces limitations, including mixed evidence on weight loss and accessibility barriers. Future research should refine ACT’s mechanisms and enhance its integration into group therapy, digital interventions, and self-help tools for better outcomes.

15. Facilitators and Barriers to Physical Activity Among Adults Living with Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Pain

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Diabetes, Chronic Pain, Rural

Components: Original data

Kristen Allen-Watts, Ph.D., MPH, the University of Alabama at Birmingham
Kennedy Butler, B.S., University of Alabama at Birmingham
Clementine Atkinson, Undergraduate Student, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Misty Hawkins, Ph.D., Indiana University, Bloomington
Burel Goodin, Ph.D., Washington University St Louis
Andrea Cherrington, M.D., MPH, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Suzanne Judd, Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham

Rural communities in the Southern Appalachia and Mississippi Delta (AMD) face disproportionate syndemic health issues and premature death. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic pain (CP) are common comorbidities that reduce physical function in adults, especially in underserved AMD regions with significant social and environmental risk factors.
Two focus group sessions, totaling 18 participants with T2D and CP were recruited. Purposive sampling enabled recruitment of heterogeneous participants. We used the Social Cognitive Theory to design the interview guide and a reflexive thematic approach for analysis.
Although there were physical and mental barriers to comorbid T2D and CP, participants expressed a desire to engage in some form of physical activity. Barriers ranged from stiffness to fear of pain exacerbation. Participants also identified non-pharmacologic approaches to pain management that were readily available and used for activities.
Chronic pain is a barrier to engaging in physical activity for people with T2D. A focus on making activities accessible and convenient by utilizing available resources is vital. Efforts must be made to engage people where they are to remain active.

16. A protocol for on-demand acceptance and commitment training for burnout among medical students in Japan

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Mobile or digital technology, Burnout, Wellbeing, Medical student

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Takafumi Watanabe, Ph.D., Nagoya City University
Mie Sakai, Ph.D., Nagoya City University
Osamu Takakwa, Ph.D., Nagoya City University
Kenichi Yoshimura, Ph.D., Nagoya City University
Tatsuo Akechi, Ph.D., Nagoya City University

Approximately 50% of physicians report experiencing burnout, which often commences during the clinical years of medical school. Our preceding pilot study has demonstrated the feasibility and potential efficacy of a brief acceptance and commitment training (ACT) intervention for the reduction of burnout in medical students during clinical clerkships. Nevertheless, low enrollment rates continue to represent a significant obstacle. To address this issue, we will present an on-demand ACT intervention based on the previous program.
Medical students in Japan with moderate to high burnout during clinical clerkships will be recruited online and randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=64) or a no-intervention group (n=64) after completing a baseline assessment. The intervention group will receive on-demand ACT three times over two weeks, preceded by a 30-minute online program overview. Two to four weeks later, participants will attend a 30-minute follow-up session online.
Burnout, wellbeing, and psychological flexibility will be measured.
The hypothesis is that on-demand ACT, requiring minimal spatial and temporal commitment, will improve (1) burnout and (2) wellbeing compared to the no-intervention group.

17. Assessing the Factor Structure of the Child Psychological Flexibility Questionnaire (CPFQ) in Indian Adolescents - Junior Investigator Poster Award Recipient

Categories: Methods/approaches for individual variation, Academics or education, Psychology Flexibility, Adolescent

Components: Original data

Kaeyoor Joshi, Ed.S., University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Amogh Joshi, Ph.D., University of Missouri
Carrie Clark, Ph.D., University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Yashkumar Pithva, M.A., Maharaja Sayajirao University
Hardik Joshi, Ph.D., Gujarat University

Evaluating psychological flexibility in multilingual populations presents distinct challenges. In LMIC countries with diverse linguistic landscapes, such as India, comprehension of psychological measures may be impeded when assessed using measures developed in the West. This research investigates the factor structure of CPFQ in adolescents in India.
The study comprised 640 high school students (Grades 8-12). An exploratory principal component analysis with varimax rotation was conducted on the six CPFQ subscales.
The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling adequacy was .562, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (χ²(15) = 163.08, p < .001), supporting the factorability of the data. Initial eigenvalues suggested a two-factor solution, explaining 45.99% of the variance. The rotated component matrix revealed that Acceptance, Present Moment Awareness, and Self-As-Context loaded onto one factor, while Committed Action, Cognitive Defusion, and Values loaded onto another.
These findings suggest a divergence from the original six-factor model, indicating the need for further validation in Indian adolescents. This study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive assessments and contributes to the refinement of psychological flexibility measurement in multilingual settings.

18. Experiential avoidance, negative affect, and depressive symptoms: A moderation model

Categories: Processes of change, Methods/approaches for individual variation, Depression

Components: Original data

Damion D Whittington, M.S., University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lauren A Smith, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Nicholas C Borgogna, Ph.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham

Research has been clear that experiential avoidance can exacerbate depressive symptoms (Akbari et al., 2022). Even more, some research surrounding alcohol use suggests that the relation of experiential avoidance to alcohol use is partly moderated by levels of negative affect (Luoma et al., 2020), suggesting that the relation of experiential avoidance to certain outcomes may be stronger in individuals who experience negative affect more often. However, this has not been examined in the context of depressive symptoms.
In the current cross-sectional study of adults (n = 1225), we examined whether frequency of negative affect moderated the relation between experiential avoidance and depressive symptoms. Participants completed the experiential avoidance rating scale, positive and negative affect schedule, and the patient health questionnaire-9.
Findings suggested that both experiential avoidance and negative affect were significantly positively related to depressive symptoms, but the interaction was nonsignificant, failing to find evidence that negative affect impacts the relation between experiential avoidance and depression.
Findings suggest that emotional avoidance may be equally negatively impactful regardless of how often an individual experiences negative affect.

19. Modified Portland Model Feasibility Study

Categories: Supervision and training, Methods/approaches for individual variation, ACT

Components: Case presentation, Conceptual analysis, Original data

Jessica Armanious, M.A., Touro University
Zoe Lash, DClinPsy, Touro University
Daniel J. Moran, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Touro University

Psychology training models are constantly evolving in order to better prepare students for real world clinical work. This study explores whether a modified version of the Portland Model can enhance psychological flexibility and confidence in students during externship seminars.
Using a multiple single-subject design, 11 student participants over 6-weeks completed the Psy-Flex Questionnaire and clinical confidence was measured based on self-reporting. Group 1 completed Psy-Flex Questionnaire and incorporated the Hexaflex worksheet, while applying an MPM Style of externship seminar. Group 2 solely completed the Psy-Flex Questionnaire while maintaining treatment as usual (TAU).
Group 1 exhibited a general increase in psychological flexibility, with some participants showing steady improvement, others fluctuating, and a few experiencing delayed gains. Group 2 displayed varied trends, including steady improvement, decline, delayed response, stability, and gradual upward fluctuations.
By incorporating the Modified Portland Model, we observed an increased in psychological flexibility compared to those receiving TAU. As a feasibility research, integrating structured psychological flexibility training could be beneficial in clinical and professional settings.

20. A Written Web: Connecting Psychological Flexibility with a Reflective Journaling Model

Categories: Theory and philosophical foundations, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Journaling

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Jonah D McManus, Psy.D., Kean University
Jennifer Block-Lerner, Ph.D., Kean University
Donald Marks, Psy.D., Ph.D., Kean University
Charlie V Moreno, M.A., Kean University
Jonathan Cedeno, B.A., Kean University

Reflective journaling (Boud & Walker, 1990) is a common way of processing emotions and understanding one’s past. It has been shown to enhance well-being in various populations (Frisina et al., 2004). While this practice aligns well with psychological flexibility, no extant work has integrated these frameworks. The aims of this research were to develop an integrated model and to assess journaling based on this model relative to a standard journaling prompt and assessment only condition.
The components of psychological flexibility and reflective journaling were combined into an integrated model and an associated journaling prompt was created. Fifty-seven college students were randomly assigned to one of the three conditions and completed measures of well-being and psychological flexibility at pre, post, and follow-up.
Mixed model ANOVAs did not yield statistical significance. We plan to examine how the journaling conditions were experienced to inform refinement of prompts and their dissemination.
The integrated model of psychological flexibility and reflective journaling provides new avenues for basic and applied research on this accessible and cost-effective practice.

Poster Session #4 - Saturday, July 19, 2:45 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.

1. The Relationship Between Teachers' Level of Psychological Flexibility and their Perceptions of Student Behavior

Categories: Academics or education, RFT / RGB / language, Teachers, Students, Perceptions

Components: Conceptual analysis, Original data

Katie Palmer, Ed.D., BCBA, VigeoBx

Expanding on research from RFT, RDT, ACT, Education, and Psychology, this exploratory study investigates the links between teachers’ perceptions their levels of psychological flexibility.
In this exploratory study, responses to the 24-item MPFI and a 78 relational task items were collected from teachers (n=192). Responses were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), network analysis, and multidimensional scaling (MDS).
Network analyses revealed a unique relationship between higher scores in the UFM construct of defensively reacting and higher scores on two relational task subscales . Teachers whose immediate response to a difficult or challenging situation was to become defensive and reactive also tended to perceive students as either categorically good or bad (with little nuance).
This novel approach opens opportunities to extend current research in RDT to correlational, person-centered studies. This work may also support the development of screeners for teachers, suggesting salient entry points for interventions. With this approach, it becomes possible to link aspects of relational tasks to related constructs like teacher burnout, well-being, behavior management, and instructional strategies.

2. Videoconforming time management program for procrastination

Categories: Behavior analysis, Processes of change, Procrastination, Single-case-design, Time management

Components: Original data

Katsuki Mikan, M.A., Ritsumeikan University
Yusuke Shudo, Ph.D., Ritsumeikan University

Cognitive behavioral therapy-based time management is effective in reducing procrastination (van Eerde & Klingsieck, 2018). Still, its impact on actual behavioral change remains underexplored. This study examined a videoconferencing time management program using behavioral measures.
Two postgraduate students and one working adult participated in a four-session program focused on reducing procrastination in exercise, study habits, and household chores. The program was based on the studies by Solanto (2011, 2015) and Karim and Kandy (2011). The first session introduced behavioral tracking (task completion for all, screen time for two, weight for one), followed by a baseline period, and subsequent sessions focused on time management skills. Behavioral changes were assessed using the number of task accomplishments, screen time, weight, and psychological scales.
Results showed significant improvements in task accomplishment for two participants, while the third participant exhibited significant psychological changes. However, no significant changes were observed in screen time or weight.
This program may help reduce procrastination, albeit its effects may vary by individual. Differences in psychological and behavioral outcomes may depend on personal preferences for organization.

3. Assent in Practice: A Mixed-Methods Study on Behavior Analysts’ Understanding and Use in Applied Settings

Categories: Behavior analysis, Supervision and training, Behavior Analysis, Assent, Supervision and Training, Ethics

Components: Original data

Meredith Andrews, Ph.D., The Chicago School
Emily Cashwell, Ph.D., The Chicago School
Danielle Jeudy, Ph.D., The Chicago School
Brandon Umphrey, Ph.D., The Chicago School

Assent is a fundamental ethical component of behavior analysis, ensuring client participation in treatment decisions. However, research on how behavior analysts understand and assess assent in applied settings remains limited. This study explores the current state of assent practices among Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and BCBA-Ds working in the United States.
This mixed-methods study consists of two phases. Phase One is a quantitative survey measuring knowledge, training, and implementation of assent-based procedures. Phase Two is semi-structured interviews providing qualitative insights into behavior analysts’ lived experiences with assent in practice and was analyzed using a thematic analysis.
Preliminary findings suggest gaps in assent training within formal education and supervision. Additionally, data illustrate a range of assent-based procedures utilized in clinical practice, varying in both structure and procedural formality.
This study highlights the variability in assent training and implementation, suggesting differences in how behavior analysts learn about and apply assent in practice. This variability has implications for ethical decision-making, training, and supervision. This study contributes to ongoing discussions on best practices in behavior analysis.

4. A Functional Neuroanatomical Perspective of Emotional Avoidance

Categories: Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Behavior analysis, Emotional Avoidance, Dissociation

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review

Natalie I Colombana Walsh, M.A., Wheaton College
Abby Hurley, Psy.D, Midwestern University
Benjamin I Pyykkonen, Ph.D., Wheaton College

Emotional avoidance is a primary target for behavioral interventions, yet underlying neurocircuitry remains unclear. While cortical structures influence emotion, the amygdala’s interaction with subcortical regions like the periaqueductal gray, reticular formation, and hypothalamus may reinforce avoidance through vigilance and motor preparedness. The auditory perception, attention, appraisal, and emotional response networks suggest contribution through sensory filtering, attention, and anticipation.
Under PRISMA guidelines, A PubMed search yielded 6,561 results, focusing on the functional neuroanatomy of emotional avoidance. Lesion and neuroimaging studies were synthesized to build a framework of avoidant neural mechanisms.
The limbic system, anterior insular cortex, and subcortical regions are implicated in emotional awareness, detecting concern-relevant stimuli, and avoidance. Ambiguous emotions engage the posterior cingulate, precuneus, and medial temporal lobe. Auditory and attention networks modulate avoidance, while appraisal and prediction networks shape it by anticipating threats. Cortisol may reinforce avoidance by reducing arousal through distraction and reappraisal.
Understanding the neural architecture of emotional avoidance refines intervention strategies by targeting specific activations. Findings confirm interactions between the cortical and subcortical regions, though subcortical involvement requires further exploration.

5. Using ACT for better outcomes with avoidant personalities in DBT pre-commitment work

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Methods/approaches for individual variation, ACT and DBT, Avoidant Personality

Components: Original data

Lori Eickleberry, Ph.D., ABPP, Institute for Life Renovation/Nova Southeastern University
Gabriella Grau, M.S., Institute for Life Renovation
Beatriz Rodriguez, Psy.D., Institute for Life Renovation
Kylee Cullen, B.S., Nova Southeastern University

Previous research has shown that individuals with avoidant personality patterns tend to have longer treatment and higher dropout rates. This study examined whether integrating ACT into DBT pre-commitment work could reduce Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) treatment duration without compromising treatment effectiveness.
Participants (N = 98) were recruited from an IOP specializing in complex cases. All met criteria for an Avoidant Personality Pattern, defined as a Base Rate of 75 or higher on the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-IV (MCMI-IV).
Participants who received ACT as part of DBT pre-commitment (n = 61) completed IOP in significantly fewer weeks (M = 14.49, SD = 1.76) than those who did not (n = 37; M = 19.14, SD = 3.13), t(unequal variances) = -8.28, p < .001. An independent samples t-test found no significant difference in Quality of Life Inventory (QOLI) change scores, t(54) = -0.193, p = .848.
These findings suggest that incorporating ACT in DBT pre-commitment work may shorten IOP treatment duration without reducing treatment effectiveness. Future research should explore how ACT impacts engagement and long-term outcomes.

6. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention in the May 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Natural Disaster

Components: Original data

Mara M Lins, Ph.D., Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Emmanuel M Kanter, Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Martha M Ludwig, Ph.D., Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Laura M Gratsch, Psychologist, Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Viviane M Graffiti, Psychologist, Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Ana M Domeneghini, Psychologist, Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo
Mariana M Dillenburgh, M.A., Centro de Estudos da Família e do Individuo

An intervention was carried out for people who experienced the catastrophe in Rio Grande do Sul/Brazil in May 2024. Emergency situations require actions to reduce potential risks and assist in psychological first aid.
The intervention used the WHO's Doing What Matters in Times of Stress, implemented in Brazil by the ACT na Sociedade group and adapted to the context of the floods by CEFI Contextus. The intervention was carried out in a hospital and a higher education institution. The meetings were led by psychologists or trained psychology students, over the course of a week.
PsyStart was applied to assess mental health and prevent stress. Preliminary results include a sample of 52.1% male, 61.8% between 30 and 49 years old, and 85.29% presenting a low risk of developing post-traumatic stress according to PsyStart. Qualitative data will be presented.
This study is relevant in that it shows effectiveness of a contextual intervention for crisis in a specific population challenged with 600 thousand people being rescued to shelters.

7. Exploring the interactions of Biopsychosocial Processes of Client and Therapist Using Idionomic Network Analysis

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Processes of change, Process-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Idionomic Network Analysis, Biopsychosocial Processes

Components: Original data

Mohammad Khaleghi, University of Tabriz
Majid Mahmoud Alilou, University of Tabriz
Abbas Bakhshipour, University of Tabriz

For decades, cognitive behavioral therapy has relied on syndromal diagnoses, disorder-specific protocols and clinical trials. However, effect sizes have remained stable or even declined in recent years. Process-Based Therapy (PBT) shifts the focus of CBT from fixed diagnostic protocols to dynamic processes of change and personalized treatment. PBT is a clinical and research method that introduces a novel perspective on psychopathology, processes of change, principles of change in psychotherapy, and research methodologies. It also integrates various therapeutic approaches to optimize client outcomes while considering multiple dimensions and levels from an evolutionary perspective.
This study explores the potential of a process-based approach to CBT through a longitudinal, intensive analysis of the interactions of biopsychosocial processes of client and therapist using idionomic network analysis. Participants and therapist took part in a PBT intervention and completed daily assessments via a smartphone app.
Preliminary findings indicate significant interactions between the biopsychosocial processes of client and therapist across multiple dimensions and levels, highlighting the potential of PBT in enhancing personalized psychotherapy.

8. State of Surrender, engagement in substance use treatment and meaning in life: A pilot study

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Substance Use Treatment, Meaning in Life, Sate of Surrender

Components: Conceptual analysis, Literature review, Original data

Mst Tajlima Tamanna, M.S., University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lauren E Venable, B.S., University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Thomas Sease, Ph.D., Texas Christian University

The current study examined the construct of State of Surrender (SoS)—defined as a willingness to accept, without resistance, what is to come—and investigated SoS as a statistical mediator of the relationship between engagement in substance use treatment and meaning in life (MIL).
Using a cross-sectional design, participants were 123 people involved with the legal system participating in a 6-month residential treatment program for substance use.
Results showed that measures of treatment engagement, including treatment participation, counselor rapport, and peer support, were all positively associated with SoS scores (R2s ≥ 21.16). Moreover, while controlling for time spent in treatment, SoS statistically mediated the positive association between aspects of treatment engagement and MIL.
Measures of treatment engagement, including treatment participation, counselor rapport, and peer support, were positively correlated with SoS. SoS was associated with greater presence in meaning. Treatment engagement fosters MIL, which helps the clients to be comfortable surrendering in treatment without fear of negative consequences, making it easier for them to find meaning and purpose in recovery.

9. Paving the way for an intervention for stress focusing on the user: Exploring needs, barriers, and facilitators

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Stress, Transdiagnostic psychological processes, Qualitative, Psychological intervention

Components: Original data

Rita Sebastião, M.Sc., ISPA-Instituto Universitário; APPsyCI – Applied Psychology Research Center Capabilities & Inclusion
David Dias Neto, Ph.D., ISPA-Instituto Universitário; APPsyCI – Applied Psychology Research Center Capabilities & Inclusion

Stress can negatively impact mental health, and modifiable transdiagnostic psychological processes may mitigate this effect. Most digital stress interventions focus on a single model without a user perspective. This study aimed to identify needs, barriers, and facilitators for coping with stress, by analyzing the contribution of different psychological processes in individuals with various experiences and stress levels, to inform the design of a more user-responsive intervention.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 participants (72% female) selected based on their stress responses from a prior project. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically.
Facilitators identified included acceptance, values, and awareness; support; thoughts; skills; behavioral activities; and emotional management. Barriers included a lack of acceptance, values, awareness, and support; and difficulties with thoughts. Stress levels and situations influenced participants' experiences. Emotional management was the most cited facilitator, and difficulties with thoughts were the most frequent barrier. Participants identified desired components for intervention, such as support, psychoeducation, emotional management, and activities.
To improve digital interventions' use and acceptability, they should be tailored to users' needs, contexts, and characteristics.

10. Effectiveness of 'Book Club': A Contextual Behavioral Approach to Managing Unhelpful Thoughts & Feelings in Youth

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Adolescents, ACT

Components: Original data

Sarah Murray Cunningham, B.A. (Hons), M.Sc., Smithsfield Clinic, Fosterfields, Athboy, Co. Meath
Kelly Larkin, Ph.D. - BCBA, Smithsfield Clinic, Fosterfields, Athboy, Co. Meath
Anabel Amadasun, B.Sc. (Hons), Smithsfield Clinic, Fosterfields, Athboy, Co. Meath
Jack Hilliard, B.A, M.Psych.Sc., Smithsfield Clinic, Fosterfields, Athboy, Co. Meath
Sarah Cassidy, Ph.D., Smithsfield Clinic
Amanda McGovern, New England Centre for OCD and Anxiety (NECOA)

Research suggests that increased psychological flexibility is positively correlated with improved mental health outcomes. Absent from the literature are CBS aligned evidence-based interventions that promote psychological flexibility and emotional resilience amongst young people experiencing distress. This study evaluates the effectiveness of "Book Club," a pilot intervention designed to help participants assess their coping strategies and develop flexible relationships with thoughts and emotions.
Young people (n = 6), aged 12 to 18 years, were invited to attend ten weekly, sixty-minute, virtual group intervention sessions. Key strategies for practicing acceptance and defusion in everyday life were modelled. Ongoing data collection includes Personal Psychological Flexibility Index (Kashdan et al., 2020), Beck Depression Inventory (Beck et al., 1996) or Children Depression Inventory (Kovacs et al., 1981) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (Beck et al., 1988) at 2, 4, and 10 weeks.
Results of the study once data collection and analysis are complete.
Insights into Book Club’s effectiveness in increasing psychological flexibility, reducing distress, and informing future intervention programmes for adolescents will be discussed.

11. Psychological Flexibility in Bipolar Disorder: Baseline Clinical and Sociodemographic Data from an Ongoing RCT

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Bipolar Disorder

Components: Original data

Sofia Hamoui, BSc, Universidade de São Paulo
Tatiana C Khafif, M.Sc., Universidade de São Paulo / CECONTE
Beny Lafer, M.D., Universidade de São Paulo

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex mental health condition that significantly impacts daily life and functioning. Psychological flexibility (PF) refers to the ability to adapt to challenges, accept difficult emotions, and adjust to changing circumstances. Higher levels of PF may help individuals with BD manage mood swings and promote greater acceptance of their condition. This study analyzes baseline data from participants in an ongoing RCT and explores associations between PF and clinical and sociodemographic factors before the intervention.
Data were collected from 90 patients enrolled in an ongoing RCT at the Institute of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo. Participants completed assessments measuring depressive symptoms (MADRS), manic symptoms (YMRS), and psychological inflexibility (PsyFlex). Sociodemographic characteristics were also collected. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression models, will be used to examine associations.
The study is ongoing and final results and analysis are expected in mid-2025
This study highlights PF as a modifiable variable in BD. Understanding its association with clinical and sociodemographic characteristics may enhance our knowledge of this population and guide the development of effective interventions.

12. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Psychiatric Disorders: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Categories: Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Psychiatric Disorders

Components: Literature review

Tatiana C Khafif, M.Sc., Universidade de São Paulo / CECONTE
Sofia Hamoui, BSc, Universidade de São Paulo
Gabriel Beraldi, M.D., Universidade de São Paulo
Daniella Mouadeb, B.D., Universidade de São Paulo
Ana Kleinman, M.D., Universidade de São Paulo
William F Perez, Ph.D., Universidade de São Paulo
Renatha El-Rafihi-Ferreira, Ph.D., Universidade de São Paulo
Tais Biazus, M.D., Universidade de São Paulo
Tais Biazus, M.D., Universidade de São Paulo

More than 325 randomised clinical trials worldwide have investigated the effectiveness of ACT in different populations, demonstrating its efficacy for many outcomes. Despite numerous systematic reviews, no study has summarised and assessed quality and findings of these trials for each psychiatric population. Therefore, this study aims to assess whether ACT reduces symptoms in people with psychiatric diagnoses.
Searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Psycinfo, Web of Sciences and the CENTRAL databases, according to PRISMA guidelines. Covidence was used for screening and extraction.
Preliminary results suggest ACT positively reduces symptoms across conditions, with the strongest effects in anxiety, depression, and OCD. However, considerable heterogeneity between trials suggests variability in outcomes. Overall, ACT shows promise as an effective treatment compared to standard treatments. The full analyses will be completed by May and presented in this poster. Future steps include a sub-analysis comparing ACT with different control conditions, providing further insight into its effectiveness.
The full results will be presented to help understand the therapeutic effects of ACT and help optimise its clinical use.

13. Waiting for Care: The Impact of Delayed Access to Therapy on Client Engagement

Categories: Dissemination or global health strategies, Wait times, Client engagement

Components: Original data

Nimrat Brar, University of California, Los Angeles
Rddhi Moodliar, M.A., University of California, Los Angeles
Richard Lebeau, Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles

Lengthy wait times for psychological treatment are a major barrier to care (Ofonedu et al., 2016). While prior research has focused on client-related variables and treatment engagement (Cade & Fidai, 2021), fewer studies examine clinic-level factors like wait times, which may help optimize resources and reduce no-show rates.
This study examines how wait time at a psychology training clinic influences intake attendance, also considering race/ethnicity, gender, and age. Data were derived from 909 individuals (M = 20, SD = 13.38) on a therapy waitlist (2016-2024). 768 participants were ultimately analyzed, with a diverse demographic profile (52.7% White, 16.5% Hispanic, 13.4% Asian/Pacific Islander, 9.9% Multi-Racial, 6.9% Black, 0.5% American Indian, 68.9% female).
Wait times ranged from 1 to 1,665 days (M = 300.65, SD = 250.74), and 31.9% attended intake. Logistic regression showed wait time significantly predicted attendance (OR = .998, p < .001), but demographic covariates were nonsignificant. Follow-up analyses will examine additional covariates (e.g., prior treatment, trauma exposure, income).
Clinical and administrative implications will be discussed, emphasizing ways to increase mental health care access.

14. The moderating effect of psychological inflexibility on the relationship between climate concerns and behavior

Categories: Environmental problems, Psychological inflexibility, Climate change

Components: Literature review, Original data

Meredith V Tittler, Ph.D., University of South Alabama
Rian Maxwell-Williams, M.A., University of South Alabama

Feathers and Williams (2022) found that psychological inflexibility moderated the relationship between climate concerns and climate anxiety such that those higher in psychological inflexibility showed a stronger relationship between climate concerns and climate anxiety. Given the mixed findings between climate anxiety and pro-climate behavior, we predicted that climate concerns may show a stronger positive association with pro-climate behaviors. We also predicted that psychological inflexibility would be a moderator of this relationship such that climate concerns would not be a significant predictor of pro-climate behaviors in those with increased psychological inflexibility.
This is a cross-sectional, survey study using a sample of U.S. undergraduate students. After consenting to participate participants will complete online measures of climate concerns, pro-climate behavior, and psychological inflexibility.
Data collection is currently underway.
Data collection is currently underway.

15. Factors associated with alcohol use disorder among ethnic minority young adults in Hong Kong

Categories: Health / behavioral medicine, Behavioral or contextual neuroscience, Addiction (Alcohol use disorder)

Components: Original data

Getaneh Mulualem Belay, M.Sc., Hong Kong Polytechnic university, HKSAR, China
Ka yan Ho, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Hong Kong polytechnic University, Hong Kong, HKSAR, China

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) has become a significant medical problem among ethnic minority young adults. Despite their increased vulnerability, existing literature overlooks factors contributing to AUD. Therefore, this study aimed to identify factors associated with AUD.
A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to October 2024. Of the 254 invited participants, 202 completed the questionnaires with a response rate of 81.5%. A hierarchical binary logistic regression model was employed to identify factors associated with AUD.
The overall prevalence of AUD was 19.8% (95% CI: 14.4-24.8), with 7.9% (95% CI: 4.5-11.8), 5.4% (95% CI: 2.5-8.4), and 6.4% (95% CI: 3.5-10.4) for mild, moderate, and severe AUD, respectively. Male gender (AOR = 6.58; 95% CI: 1.19-36.3), age (AOR = 1.2; 95% CI: 1.02-1.34), parental drinking (AOR = 5.7; 95% CI: 1.63-20.01), everyday discrimination (AOR = 1.08; 95% CI: 1.03-1.13), and experiential avoidance behaviors (AOR = 1.1; 95% CI: 1.01-1.12) were significantly associated with AUD.
This study suggested that AUD is multifaceted. Future interventions, specifically, should target experiential avoidance behaviors and discriminations to improve alcohol use abstinence.

16. Enhancing Psychological Flexibility: An Updated Outline for a Web/Mobile Application Tool

Categories: Mobile or digital technology, Processes of change, Psychological Flexibility, Web/Mobile Application, ACT Metaphors & Exercises

Components: Literature review

Emanuele Rossi, Ph.D., Scuole di Specializzazione in Psicoterapia Cognitiva, APC, SPC, AIPC, SICC, IGB, Italy
Francesco Mancini, M.D., Scuole di Specializzazione in Psicoterapia Cognitiva (APC, SPC, AIPC, SICC, IGB); Università degli Studi Guglielmo Marconi, Rome, Italy

The poster proposes a research project offering an updated outline of a web/mobile application tool in Italian based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT; Hayes, Strosahl, & Wilson, 1999, 2012) and Relational Frame Theory (RFT; Hayes, Barnes-Holmes, & Roche, 2001).
This application is designed to integrate clinical activity and cultivate psychological flexibility and well-being in both clients and clinicians. This tool is not intended to replace the therapeutic process; rather, it aims to support and enrich clinical practice through experiential activities and practices aligned with the core ACT processes, which can be practiced outside of therapeutic sessions.
This poster presents a Version 2.0 of the application tool, outlining essential clinical aspects and its logical and operational configuration. A visual representation and illustrative graphics are provided to offer a demonstration of the tool's functionalities.
This work was conducted to provide clients and clinicians with an accessible, clear and intuitive web/mobile application for practicing ACT processes, and it is related to a comprehensive project introduced at prior ACBS World Conferences.

17. Using Acceptance and Commitment processes for managing emotions and thoughts in primary school contexts

Categories: Processes of change, Dissemination or global health strategies, Psychological Flexibility, Primary School, Well-Being

Components: Original data

Emanuele Rossi, Ph.D., Scuole di Specializzazione in Psicoterapia Cognitiva, APC, SPC, AIPC, SICC, IGB, Italy
Sofia Stefanini, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy
Laura Spinaci, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy
Monia Crudele, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy
Michela Quaranta, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy
Camilla Pesaresi, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy
Alessandra Baldassarri, ClinPsy, Scuola di Psicoterapia Cognitiva SPC, Ancona, Italy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based, contextual behavioral approach aimed at promoting psychological flexibility and well-being, intended as allowing oneself to be open to the totality of experiences, both pleasant and unpleasant.
This project presents a prevention protocol based on ACT for the management of emotions in developmental age, and examines its impact on the psychological flexibility of participants. This is a pilot study divided into six meetings and addressed to students. It is based on the "Passengers on the Bus" metaphor as a tool to increase emotional and behavioral awareness. Psychological measures will be administered to participants before and after intervention to assess cognitive flexibility and psychological well-being.
Data collection is still ongoing. Results and clinical implications will be presented and discussed at the conference.
It is hypothesized that ACT intervention will increase students' effectiveness in regulating and managing their thoughts, emotions, and sensations by promoting greater flexibility that may lead them to engage in values based actions.

18. Can Affective State Shifts Predict Psychological Flexibility, well-being and discomfort? An exploratory EMA study

Categories: Processes of change, Process Based Therapy, Flexibility, Bistability, Affective State Shifts, EMA

Components: Original data

Paola Katia Kory, M.A., University of Enna Kore
Pandelis Perakakis, Associate Professor, Complutense University of Madrid
Claudia Minutola, Psychologist, University of Enna Kore
Giovanni Coppola, Ph.D. Student, IULM University
Giovambattista Presti, Professor, University of Enna Kore

Research on affective change is emerging, highlighting the link of affective states with psychological well-being. This perspective introduces a new approach to studying affective states, which are inherently dynamic and shift in response to external and internal processes. This conceptualization has led researchers to explore the relationship between affective shift and psychological well-being or distress (Goicoechea et al., 2023). In this framework, valence classifies experiences into positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA).
81 participants were monitored for 28 days, reporting affective states six times daily. The Affect Shift Ratio (ASR) assessed transitions between PA and NA, analyzing affective bistability and psychological predictors.
29% of subjects exhibited affective bistability. A high shift P2N (Positive to Negative) predicted increased anxiety, depression, and lower resilience, while shifts between PA and NA correlated with psychological distress. The P2N matrix correlates with higher psychological inflexibility, whereas the N2P matrix correlates with greater psychological flexibility.
Findings challenge static affect models, supporting a bistable process. Process Based Therapy (PBT) offers a novel framework for diagnosis and treatment, enabling personalized, time-sensitive interventions.

19. Exploring the Relationship Between Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Avoidance in Adults Seeking Trauma Treatment

Categories: Processes of change, Theory and philosophical foundations, PTSD

Components: Original data

Jessica A Burgess, M.S., PGSP-Stanford Consortium
Mariana Ward, M.S., Palo Alto University
Valesia Ho, Psy.D., MSW, Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinical Services
Michael Robinson, M.A., Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinical Services
Robyn D Walser, Ph.D., Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinical Services
Matthew McKay, Ph.D., Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinical Services

Avoidance is central to the persistence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), aligning with contextual behavior science (CBS) perspectives on experiential avoidance and psychological inflexibility. . While emotion regulation difficulties are not a PTSD criterion, research shows a strong link between PTSD symptom maintenance and emotion dysregulation. Specifically, emotion regulation strategies aimed at avoiding emotions are closely related to PTSD-avoidance symptoms. This study examines the relationship between emotion dysregulation and PTSD-related avoidance symptoms in adults seeking trauma treatment. We hypothesized that greater difficulties in emotion regulation would correlate with more severe avoidance symptoms.
A secondary analysis was conducted using data collected from adults seeking trauma treatment (N = 390). Measures included the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) and a brief version of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS-18).
Spearman correlations revealed a weak positive relationship between avoidance symptoms and all domains of emotion regulation..
These findings suggest that while avoidance and emotion regulation difficulties co-occur, their association is modest at baseline, highlighting the complexity of avoidance processing in the PTSD from a CBS perspective.

20. Using Relational Frame Theory to Unlearn Ableism: A Systematic Review

Categories: RFT / RGB / language, Behavior analysis, Neurodiversity

Components: Literature review

Hannah M Ferguson, M.A.Ed., University of Missouri - St. Louis, St. Louis Arc
Dani Pizzella, BCBA-D, University of Missouri - St. Louis

Relational Frame Theory (RFT) is a product of behavior analysis’ third wave (Barnes-Holmes et al., 2002; Hayes, 2004) that has been used to conceptualize a breadth of prejudices in its short tenure.
This systematic review searched four electronic databases to locate reports, theoretical or experimental, that analyzed ableism using RFT.
Despite the theory’s utility with other types of prejudice (Dixon et al., 2006, Dixon et al., 2009; Farrell et al., 2023; Shea et al., 2022, Zuch et al., 2024), this review identified only one report in which RFT was used to analyze ableism (Catrone & Koch, 2021). This empirical study indicated potential for conceptualization and counterconditioning of ableist behaviors using RFT.
This dearth of information raises significant concerns due to the majority population of behavior analysts who support individuals with disabilities (BACB, 2023); why is this scientific theory and its practical implications not being employed to improve applied practice? Conceptual application of RFT and other theoretical and practical products of functional contextualism to ableism are discussed, and a call for dedicated research is asserted.

21. Evaluating the Awareness, Courage, and Love model of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy Through a Cultural Lens

Categories: Social justice / equity / diversity, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy

Components: Original data

Logan C Mattingly, B.S, University of Washington
Annika Barsy, B.S., University of Washington
Troye Lu, BS, University of Washington
Zoltan G Wolfe, B.A., Seattle University Department of Counseling
Brianna Hatch, B.A., University of Washington
Mavis Tsai, Ph.D., University of Washington

The Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) model stems from Functional Analytic Psychotherapy and is designed to enhance social connection and improve well-being. With little research addressing the impact of ACL interventions in different cultures, this study aims to examine the efficacy of an ACL intervention in individuals belonging to individualistic and collectivist cultures.
In this study, participants engaged in an online contextual behavioral intervention involving meditation and journaling in response to vulnerability-generating questions. Participants and researchers then shared journal responses and responded to one another. Participants (n=34) were randomized into two conditions, with research assistants providing either “ACL” responses (n=15), or advice (n=19) to participants.
We hypothesize the ACL condition will exhibit higher social connection and depression scores. A preliminary analysis showed improvement in social connection and depression within both conditions. An ANOVA will be utilized to investigate the main effect of condition on social connection and depression. A post-hoc analysis of the interaction effect of cultural orientation will be conducted.
This study will inform future implementations of ACL interventions in individualistic and collectivistic populations.

22. A behavioral pilot intervention for LGBTQ+ adults to enhance social connection and self-acceptance

Categories: Social justice / equity / diversity, Clinical intervention development or outcomes, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy

Components: Original data

Savannah Stidhams, M.A., LMCHA, Marquette University
Kristen Pedersen, M.S., Drexel University
Logan C Mattingly, B.S, University of Washington
Mavis Tsai, Ph.D., University of Washington

The sociopolitical climate and lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated mental health disparity within the LGBTQ+ community. Increasing loneliness, depression, and anxiety paired with difficulty accessing queer-affirming mental health services indicate a need for accessible, peer-based interventions for LGBTQ+ individuals.
In this mixed-methods pilot study, we facilitated the first Acceptance, Courage, and Love (ACL) group intervention specifically designed for LGBTQ+ individuals. The ACL model stems from Functional Analytic Psychotherapy and refers to three interpersonal behavioral repertoires developed for peer-to-peer use. The present intervention included sessions targeting 1) authenticity, 2) self-acceptance and compassion, 3) value alignment, and 4) presence. Seven LGBTQ+ participants (75% gender non-confirming) engaged with our intervention (n=3) and control (n=4) conditions.
Examination of our data show promising implications regarding participant experiences of connection, hope, belonging, and reduced depressive symptoms. Our findings support the potential utility of ACL interventions as an effective addition to the existing strengths of the queer community.
Limitations will be discussed, and specific recommendations for future intervention work with the queer community will be provided.

23. Flipturns of Adolescent Swimmers Psychological (in)Flexibility: An Idiographic study with DNA-V

Categories: Sports or performance-enhancing, Processes of change, Adolescents, Competitive Sport

Components: Case presentation, Original data

Matteo Chies, Master's Degree in Psychology, Università di Trento
Stefano Mastino, M.Psy., Università di Trento
Giovanna Pignatelli, M.Psy., Università di Trento
Claudio Mulatti, Ph.D., Università di Trento

Psychological flexibility is a key factor in athletic performance and well-being. This study investigates the effects of a DNA-V training on Italian adolescent competitive swimmers, focusing on the development of psychological flexibility and its impact on motivation and resilience in training and competition.
This idiographic longitudinal study involved four athletes (aged 13, 14 and 16). Participants engaged in a 12-session DNAV training program (60-minute sessions over six months), including in-water practice. Weekly self-report questionnaires assessed psychological flexibility, DNAV-related skills, motivation, and sport resilience during training and post-competition, aimed to compare psychological flexibility in both contexts.
Functional analysis suggests that one athlete overcame his initial performance-related difficulties, demonstrating increased flexibility in self-perception after the Values and Discoverer-based training sessions. The other three participants exhibited more inflexible Adviser. Over time, they also showed improvements in psychological flexibility. All participants displayed strong Noticer skills but exhibited higher commitment to their goals rather than to their values.
DNAV-based training may be an effective approach to enhancing psychological flexibility in competitive swimming. A context-specific training protocol will be presented.