Cognitive Training for Mental Health Problems

Abstract

We review the current state of the literature on computerized cognitive training programs for mental health problems. Drawing on established principles from learning theory and cognitive psychology, we discuss several reasons why many of these interventions (e.g., cognitive bias modification) have not yet achieved their considerable potential as cost-effective, disseminable, and effective digital therapeutics. We also consider distinguishing features that may help to explain why other computerized cognitive training programs (e.g., cognitive remediation) tend to show more robust effects. Finally, we leverage insights across both basic and applied branches of psychology to offer concrete recommendations for building more robustly effective digital interventions moving forward.