Intervention planning for the Tinnitus E-Programme 2.0, an internet-based cognitive behavioural intervention for tinnitus

Abstract

Purpose: to comprehensively describe the intervention planning process for the Tinnitus E-Programme 2.0, an internet-based cognitive behavioural intervention for tinnitus.

Method: theory-, evidence-, and person-based approaches to intervention development were used. In Phase 1, quantitative systematic reviews were used to identify potentially effective intervention techniques and design features. Primary mixed-methods research involving adults with tinnitus explored the acceptability of the first version of the intervention. In Phase 2, person-based guiding principles highlighted key intervention design objectives and features to address needs of the intervention’s target group (identified in Phase 1) to maximise its acceptability, feasibility of delivery, and effectiveness. Theory-based ‘behavioural analysis’ and ‘logic modelling’ comprehensively described intervention content and potential mechanisms of action. From this planning work, a prototype intervention was developed.

Results: the intervention design objectives outlined in the guiding principles were to (1) normalise tinnitus; (2) support users to maintain a regular relaxation practice; (3) minimise the worsening of users’ tinnitus sensation; and (4) ensure the intervention is accessible to those with hearing loss. Behavioural analysis and logic modelling identified intervention processes (e.g. illness perceptions, beliefs about consequences, skills, goals) and purported mediators (acceptance of tinnitus, negative thinking, use of the cognitive skills tools for managing negative thoughts, and practicing regular relaxation) hypothesised to facilitate reductions in tinnitus symptom severity.

Conclusions: the guiding principles highlight key design objectives and features to consider when developing interventions for tinnitus. The logic model offers hypothesised mechanisms of action that can be tested in future process analyses.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Kate Greenwell: orcid.org/0000-0002-3662-1488

ORCID for Katherine Bradbury: orcid.org/0000-0001-5513-7571

ORCID for Adam Geraghty: orcid.org/0000-0001-7984-8351

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