The Effects of the Flash Technique Compared to Those of an Abbreviated Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy Protocol on the Emotionality and Vividness of Aversive Memories

Abstract

Introduction: The Flash technique is a novel intervention aimed at rapidly decreasing the subjective disturbance of an aversive memory, thereby serving as a potential way of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The protocol is used to stimulate clients to engage in positive imagery while being discouraged to actively recollect the targeted disturbing memory. Previous research into the Flash technique’s efficacy shows promising results, yet controlled studies are lacking.Objectives: To test the efficacy of the Flash technique, it was compared to an abbreviated eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol in a controlled experimental setting. We hypothesized that the Flash technique would lead to a larger decrease in the emotionality and vividness of an aversive autobiographical memory when compared to EMDR therapy. Our second hypothesis was that the procedure of the Flash technique would be evaluated more pleasant by its receiver.Method: The sample consisted of 60 non-clinical participants (mean age = 25.28 years; 73.33% female) who were able to recall an aversive autobiographical memory. They were randomized to either the Flash technique or the EMDR therapy condition. Measurements consisted of emotionality and vividness-ratings pre and post intervention, and at 1-week follow-up.Results: Bayesian analyses showed no differences between Flash and EMDR to the extent to which the emotionality and vividness of their memory was reduced. Afterward, the Flash technique was rated more pleasant than EMDR.Conclusion: The results support the claim that the Flash technique might be used as a brief and efficacious intervention for individuals suffering from disturbing memories. Although the results suggest that its efficacy does not differ from EMDR, the Flash technique seems to yield similar outcomes in a more pleasant way. Further research into its working mechanisms and in a clinical sample is required.

A Randomized-Controlled Trial of EMDR Flash Technique on Traumatic Symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and Life of Quality With Individuals Who Have Experienced a Traffic Accident

“…In addition, another possible mechanism may be the subliminal exposure theory. Accordingly, it is thought that the activation of the amygdala prevents the processing of the traumatic memory, but the continuation of the processing is ensured by the dual tasking inhibiting the activation of the amygdala ( Brouwers et al, 2021 ; Manfield et al, 2021 ; Siegel et al, 2022 ). In conclusion, considering rapid effectiveness of the EMDR Flash Technique, it should be noted that it may have an effect mechanism which is quite novel and has unexplained aspects.…”

“…EMDR Flash Technique is a relatively recent individual and group intervention that allows EMDR to be applied to a technical group at the same time (Manfield). Although the Flash Technique originated in the context of EMDR, there are publications suggesting that it should be considered as an independent trauma-related intervention that can presently be used outside of EMDR therapy ( Brouwers et al, 2021 ; Manfield et al, 2021 ). Its effectiveness has already been proven in a small number of case studies and case series ( Manfield et al, 2017 ; Yaşar et al, 2021 ).…”

The effectiveness, efficiency, and acceptability of EMDR vs. EMDR 2.0 vs. the Flash technique in the treatment of patients with PTSD: study protocol for the ENHANCE randomized controlled trial

“…Based on the results of Matthijssen et al (39), EMDR 2.0 is expected to be more efficient than standard EMDR therapy in treating traumatic memories and PTSD symptoms. Based on the preliminary findings of Brouwers et al (48), we expect that the Flash technique will be rated as more acceptable by patients than standard EMDR therapy.…”

“…Until now, two controlled studies on the Flash technique have been conducted. Brouwers et al (48) compared the Flash technique to an abbreviated version of the EMDR therapy protocol in non-clinical clinical participants, who were asked to recall an aversive autobiographical memory. Although no differences between EMDR and Flash were observed in reducing emotionality and vividness of aversive memories, participants rated the Flash technique as more pleasant than EMDR therapy.…”

“…There is not enough evidence to have a priori expectations with regards to the differential effectiveness of standard EMDR therapy compared to EMDR 2.0 or the Flash technique. Based on the results of earlier research on EMDR 2.0 and the Flash technique [e.g., (39,48)], we expect that all interventions will be effective in terms of a significant reduction of (complex) PTSD symptoms and loss of diagnostic status. We also expect that all interventions will be effective in reducing the symptoms associated with PTSD.…”