The effect of waiting: A meta-analysis of wait-list control groups in trials for tinnitus distress
Hesser H, Weise C, Rief W, Andersson G (2011)
Publication Type: Journal article, Review article
Publication year: 2011
Journal
Book Volume: 70
Pages Range: 378-384
Journal Issue: 4
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2010.12.006
Abstract
Objective: The response rates and effects of being placed on a wait-list control condition are well documented in psychiatric populations. Despite the usefulness of such estimates and the frequent use of no-treatment controls in clinical trials for tinnitus, the effect of waiting in a tinnitus trial has not been investigated systematically. The aim of the present study was to quantify the overall effect of wait-list control groups on tinnitus distress. Methods: Studies were retrieved via a systematic review of randomised controlled trials of cognitive behaviour therapy for tinnitus distress. Outcomes of psychometrically robust tinnitus-specific measures (Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, Tinnitus Questionnaire, Tinnitus Reaction Questionnaire) from wait-list control groups were quantified using meta-analytic techniques. Percentage of change and standard mean difference effect sizes were calculated using the pre and post wait period. Results: Eleven studies involving 314 wait-list subjects with tinnitus were located. The analysis for a waiting period of 6 to 12 weeks revealed a mean decrease in scores on tinnitus-specific measures of 3% to 8%. Across studies, a statically significant small mean within-group effect size was obtained (Hedges' g=.17). The effects were moderated by methodological quality of the trial, sample characteristics (i.e., age, tinnitus duration), time of the wait-list and how diagnosis was established. Conclusion: Subjects in a tinnitus trial improve in tinnitus distress over a short waiting phase. The effects of waiting are highly variable and depend on the characteristics of the sample and of the trial. © 2011 Elsevier Inc.
Involved external institutions
Sweden (SE)
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Hesser, H., Weise, C., Rief, W., & Andersson, G. (2011). The effect of waiting: A meta-analysis of wait-list control groups in trials for tinnitus distress. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 70(4), 378-384. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychores.2010.12.006
MLA:
Hesser, Hugo, et al. "The effect of waiting: A meta-analysis of wait-list control groups in trials for tinnitus distress." Journal of Psychosomatic Research 70.4 (2011): 378-384.
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