NCT07391020 · Florida State University
Text Message Safety Behavior Fading for Pathological Worry
What this study is about
The current study aims to explore the effectiveness of a text message-based Safety Behavior Fading Intervention compared to a PMR control condition.
View original scientific description
The current study aims to explore the efficacy of a text message-based Safety Behavior Fading Intervention compared to a PMR control condition.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Safety Behavior Fading for Pathological Worry
Participants are asked to reduce or eliminate safety behaviors via text message reminders, daily checklist, and daily progress chart to monitor progress.
BEHAVIORAL
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Participants are asked watch weekly videos lasting 15 minutes each that walk them through a progressive muscle relaxation exercise.
Primary outcome measures
Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ; Meyer et al., 1990)
Time frame: Day 0, Day 28, Day 56
Self-report scale that measures levels of worry. Scores range from 16 to 80 with higher scores indicating higher levels of worry.
Worry Behaviors Inventory (Mahoney et al., 2016)
Time frame: Day 0, Day 28, Day 56
Self-report scale that measures frequency of worry-related safety behavior use. Scores range from 0 to 44 with higher scores indicating more frequent worry-related safety behavior use.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7; Spitzer et al., 2006)
Time frame: Day 0, Day 28, Day 56
Self-report scale that measures generalized anxiety symptom severity. Scores range from 0 to 21, with higher scores indicating higher levels of generalized anxiety.
Credibility and Expectancy Questionnaire (Devilly & Borkovec, 2000).
Time frame: Day 0
Self-report scale for measuring treatment expectancy and rationale credibility for use in clinical outcome studies. Three items are rated on a 1-9 scale and one item is rated on a 0-100 scale with higher scores meaning greater expectancy and credibility.
Theoretical Framework of Acceptability Questionnaire (TFA; Sekhon et al., 2022)
Time frame: Day 28
Self-report scale for measuring treatment acceptability. Each item is rated on a 1-5 scale measuring agreement with each statement. For four items, higher scores reflect higher levels of acceptability. For the remaining four items, higher scores reflect lower levels of acceptability. Scores for each subscale range from 4-20.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- \- Elevated worry as defined by a score of 60 or higher on the PSWQ.
Exclusion criteria
- Score of 59 or lower on the PSWQ
- If applicable, unstable psychiatric medication usage any time over the past 4 weeks
- Failing attention checks in baseline data collection
Where
- Tallahassee, Florida
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations