The Effectiveness of the Flash Technique Is Explained by the Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotion

The Flash Technique (FT) appears to significantly reduce distress and sympathetic arousal in the preparation phase of EMDR.

Article Abstract

“The Flash Technique (FT) appears to significantly reduce distress and sympathetic arousal in the preparation phase of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, making the therapeutic process more manageable, and in some cases resulting in spontaneous resolution of symptoms. The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotion is proposed as an explanation for the effectiveness of FT, which requires sustained attention to a positive engaging focus producing a sensation of pleasure or positive feeling. The positive emotion experienced in FT, following retrieval of a traumatic memory at a distance, produces a broadening effect on cognitive function, leading to increased cognitive flexibility and an enhanced ability to integrate diverse information, allowing adaptive reprocessing of traumatic material, reduction in distress, and spontaneous development of adaptive responses.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Free Access for EMDRIA Members or Purchase/Subscription Required

Perez-Strumolo, L. (2024). The Effectiveness of the Flash Technique Is Explained by the Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotion. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 18(3), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.1891/EMDR-2024-0015

 

This content is restricted for members only. Please or Join EMDRIA.