Anxiety-reducing effects of working memory training: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To assess whether working memory training will relieve anxiety in participants.Methods: The PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases were searched up to January 25, 2022. We included random controlled trials with low to moderate risk of bias in comparing working memory training with control condition as the only intervention in treating anxiety (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022300404). The language was restricted to English. Data extraction was independently carried out by two authors, following the PRISMA guideline for systematic reviews.Results: Of the 477 records identified, 19 studies (n = 1051) were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that the post-training anxiety was reduced with a small but significant value (Hedge's g =-0.392, p = .009) by working memory training. Subgroup analyses confirmed that the moderating effect of anxiety type, anxiety measurement and training environment were significant. Limitations: These results should be considered with caution for the heterogeneity of training paradigms, participant population and types of anxiety assessed between studies. Further research is required to support these results.Conclusions: Working memory training is a promising intervention to relieve anxiety symptoms.