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Alex Anne Lamoureux, France Talbot
Fear of public speaking (FoPS) is a prevalent condition that remains undertreated despite exposure being an efficient intervention. Internet-based exposure therapy may facilitate access to treatment, but engagement can be a challenge. Internet-based written exposure therapy combined to selfcompassion training may help to improve FoPS and engagement. This study assessed the feasibility of a minimally guided internet-based written exposure and self-compassion therapy for FoPS. Meet Your Public. It is a 6-week program available in English and French that includes psychoeducation and writing exercises related to FoPS, exposure and self-compassion. Nineteen participants were eligible for analysis. A single group design including a 3-month follow-up was used. Feasibility outcomes included adherence, attrition, treatment acceptability and preliminary efficacy on FoPS, negative and positive self-statements pertaining to FoPS, and self-compassionate and self-uncompassionate behaviors. About two thirds of the participants completed the program and the study (63%). Most study completers reported that they would recommend the program to a friend (80%). Intent-to-treat mixed-effect models analyses revealed large improvements of FoPS (Glass’ delta= 1.23) which were maintained at follow-up. Small to moderate improvements were also found from pre-treatment to post-treatment or follow-up on all other outcome measures (Glass’ deltas from 0.21 to 0.68). Meet Your Public may be beneficial while facilitating access to treatment for FoPS. Future directions to further improve engagement and satisfaction are discussed
