Self-Distancing for Specific Phobia in Youth (NCT06339463) | Clinical Trial Compass
WithdrawnNot Applicable
Self-Distancing for Specific Phobia in Youth
Stopped: Loss of funding
0Started 2026-10
Plain-language summary
Self-Distancing is a cognitive technique that involves a shift in self-talk characterized by replacing first-person (e.g., "I") with second- or third-person pronouns (i.e., "you", one's own name) to promote an adaptive, self-reflective stance in emotionally charged situations. This trial aims to help learn how self-distancing may increase behavioral approach during exposures. To find out if self-distancing works by helping children approach fear-inducing stimuli, the study will look at behaviors and physiological responses related to approach, as well as symptom severity, before and after this cognitive technique.
The study hypothesizes that Self-Distancing will lead to greater increases in approach behaviors and a larger decrease in symptom severity compared to a control condition (first-person self-talk).
Who can participate
Age range
7 Years – 12 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria
* Age 7-12.99 years at the time of consent
* Written informed consent by a parent/legal guardian and assent by the child
* Clinically significant symptoms of specific phobia (i.e., spider phobia)
* Fluent in English (Participant may be bilingual but must be able to speak and understand fluent English to participate in the study)
Exclusion Criteria
* Prior diagnosis of bipolar disorder
* Prior diagnosis of psychotic disorders
* Prior diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
* Active alcohol or substance dependence
* Active suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior within the past 3 months prior to baseline assessment
* Any major medical or neurological problem (e.g., unstable hypertension, seizure disorder, head trauma)
* Any history of cognitive impairment or developmental delay
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Behavioral Approach Test (BAT)
Timeframe: Immediately before and after intervention.
2
Spider Phobia Questionnaire (SPQ-C)
Timeframe: At baseline (~1 week before the intervention) and immediately after the intervention.
3
Treatment Engagement and Adherence Ratings (TEARS)
Timeframe: Immediately after the intervention.
4
Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS)
Timeframe: Immediately before and after the intervention.