Internet

texting depressed teen

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A controlled trial published in the current issue of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics reports on a new modality of performing relapse prevention in depression. Internet-based cognitive therapy with monitoring via text messages (mobile CT), in addition to treatment as usual , might offer a cost-effective way to treat recurrent depression.

Kok et al. conducted a study on remitted patients with at least 2 previous episodes of depression, randomized to mobile Cognitive Therapy in addition to treatment as usual.Results showed that residual depressive symptoms showed a small but statistically significant decrease in the intention-to-treat group over 3 months in the mobile CT group relative to the treatment as usual group.

Residual depressive symptoms after remission showed a more favourable course over 3 months in the mobile CT group compared to the treatment as usual group . These results are a first indication that mobile CT in addition to treatment as usual is effective in treating
recurrently depressed patients in remission. However, demonstration of its long-term effectiveness and replication remains necessary.

Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics

Prettier websites gain trust

Despite the increase in online scams and malicious websites, internet consumers are 20 per cent more trusting of websites than they were five years ago, according to a new University of Melbourne study.

However, while surfers may be more trusting, online shoppers are 30 per cent less loyal to online businesses than in 2007.

Author of the study, Dr Brent Coker, said the increase in online consumer trust is largely linked to the visual appeal of websites. “As aesthetically orientated humans, we’re psychologically hardwired to trust beautiful people, and the same goes for websites. Our offline behaviour and inclinations translate to our online existence. As the internet has become prettier, we are venturing out, and becoming less loyal.”

“With websites becoming increasingly attractive and including more trimmings, this creates a greater feeling of trustworthiness and professionalism in online consumers.” [continue reading…]

The Guardian’s Alex Krotoski takes a shot at untangling the effect that internet porn has on our sex lives…..Interesting, have read and let us know what you think? How has the internet changed our concept of sex? Is online porn a path to sexual enlightenment or is it the slippery slope to society’s moral corruption ?

Generally, the focus of discussions about sex online tends to be on possible dangers, rather than on enlightenment or mental intimacy. The experience most people have is of searching for information about psychosexual problems, not looking for a good time. Yes, the kinks are out there – they always have been – but there is no evidence that simple exposure to the vast database of online fetishes has sexualised our society any more or less than previous media have. If anything, it’s reversing the trend towards commercialisation. Online interaction, frank discussion and play are transforming our sexualities. The result will, with luck, be sexual enlightenment rather than social destruction. Curious? Continue reading

Source: The Guardian