The Science: Interpretation Bias Modification (CBM-I)

This game is based on Interpretation Bias Modification (CBM-I). This technique targets a cognitive bias common in anxiety: the tendency to interpret ambiguous situations in a negative or threatening way.

For example, if a friend doesn’t text back, a negative bias might jump to “They are mad at me.” This game trains the “reverse” by repeatedly presenting you with ambiguous scenarios and having you actively complete a positive or neutral interpretation (e.g., “They are b…sy,” and you type “u”). This repeated practice can help weaken the automatic negative bias and make more balanced interpretations feel more natural.

Who can benefit from this game?

This exercise may be helpful for:

• Individuals who often “jump to the worst conclusion.”
• People working on social anxiety or general worry.
• Anyone who wants to practice cognitive flexibility.

Scientific Effectiveness & References

This is an evidence-informed skills trainer. CBM-I has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety symptoms by retraining these automatic interpretation patterns.

• Mathews, A., & Mackintosh, B. (2000). Induced emotional interpretation bias and anxiety. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 109(4), 602–615.
• Hertel, P. T., & Mathews, A. (2011). Cognitive bias modification: past perspectives and future directions. Current directions in psychological science, 20(4), 235-240.