Mobile Intervention for Veterans With PTSD and Anger

Anger is the mostly commonly reported reintegration concern among combat Veterans, especially
those with PTSD. Problematic anger is associated with significant functional impairment. One
of the mechanisms associated with problematic anger and aggression is hostile interpretation
bias, i.e., a tendency to interpret ambiguous interpersonal situations as hostile. The
investigator has previously developed and piloted a computer-based interpretation bias
modification intervention that successfully reduces both hostile interpretation bias and
anger outcomes. In the current project, the investigators will pilot-test a mobile
application version of the existing computer-based intervention, entitled Mobile Intervention
for Reducing Anger (MIRA), among Veterans with PTSD and problematic anger. The project will
compare the MIRA app to a contact control condition to evaluate the feasibility of
recruitment, randomization, and retention procedures. The investigators will also utilize
psychophysiological and electronic diary monitoring to determine whether this assessment
could be used as an outcome or mechanistic variable in a subsequent randomized clinical trial
application focused on evaluating the efficacy of the MIRA intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, established via the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale
for DSM-5 (CAPS-5)

- Reporting a score of 12 on the 5-item Dimensions of Anger Reactions Scale

- Able to read at least 6th grade level material

Exclusion Criteria:

- Expect to be unstable on their medication regimen during the study

- Currently in a period of active psychosis or mania

- Exhibit current prominent suicidal or homicidal ideation requiring immediate
intervention

- Receiving (or plan to receive) other anger management psychotherapy or trauma-focused
therapy for PTSD (i.e., prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy during the
course of the study