CI-CBT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Compulsivity and Impulsivity as Predictors of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy Adherence: A Prospective Study
IRAS ID
366963
Contact name
Jeremy Solly
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Hertfordshire
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
osf.io/vndzg, Open Science Framework Pre-Registration
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 23 days
Research summary
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used, structured, short-term psychological therapy. However, research shows that CBT does not work for everyone, and it is not yet clear why this is the case. One important factor linked to successful outcomes is how well people are able to follow and engage with their therapy, known as treatment adherence. Two traits - compulsivity and impulsivity - are common across many mental health problems and may affect how well people are able to adhere to CBT. This study aims to explore whether these traits influence people’s ability to engage with and complete CBT.
People who are about to begin a course of CBT in the NHS will be invited to take part. Participants will first complete online questionnaires about their mental health, as well as measures of compulsivity and impulsivity. They will also complete some computer-based tasks designed to assess compulsivity and impulsivity. Throughout therapy, participants' therapists will complete a brief measure after each session to record how well the participant has adhered to their treatment. At the end of therapy, participants themselves will complete a similar questionnaire reflecting their overall adherence.
By understanding how compulsivity and impulsivity relate to CBT adherence, this research hopes to help clinicians make better-informed decisions about treatment planning and adaptation. Ultimately, this could lead to more effective and personalised therapies. The findings will be shared widely with clinicians, researchers, and service users to help improve future mental health care.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0265
Date of REC Opinion
15 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion