This Study Aimed To Examine The Effects Of Open-Label Placebo Treatment: Applied Psychology Thesis, TCD, Ireland

Aims: This study aimed to examine the effects of Open-Label Placebo treatment on sleep quality, depression, anxiety, stress, and satisfaction with life, in university students and to investigate the role of expectancy in the placebo effect.

Method: A two-week randomized control trial (RCT) was used to test the hypotheses. Participants (N=60) were randomized to one of four groups:

1. open-label placebo with rationale,
2. open-label placebo no rationale,
3. valerian
4. no treatment.

Both open-label placebo groups took one placebo pill each night for two weeks, however, to increase positive expectancy one of these groups received a rationale explaining the mechanisms behind open-label placebos and research that supports their efficacy. Participants in the valerian group took valerian pills in the same way.

Measures included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Credibility and Expectancy Questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS 21), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS).

Hypotheses:

1. The open-label placebo groups will significantly increase Global Sleep Quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).
2. Open-label placebos will positively affect depression, anxiety, and stress as measured by the DASS-21, and on satisfaction with life as measured by the SWLS.
3. The open-label placebo group that received a rationale will have more beneficial results than the open-label placebo group with no rationale.