Psychophysiological Markers of Interpretation Bias: A Systematic Review

An important, yet under-explored area of interpretation bias research concerns the examination of potential physiological markers of this bias. Developing a better understanding of the physiological processes that underpin interpretation biases will extend current theoretical frameworks underlying interpretation bias, as well as optimising the efficacy of cognitive bias modification for interpretation (CBM-I) interventions aimed at improving symptoms of emotional disorders. To this end, systematic searches will be conducted across the Web of Science, PsycInfo and Pubmed databases to identify physiological markers of interpretation bias. In addition, grey literature database searches will be conducted to compliment peer-reviewed research and to counter publication bias. Eligible studies will be assessed using a quality assessment tool adapted from the Quality Checklist for Healthcare Intervention Studies. The respective theoretical and practical implications of the research will be discussed, followed by recommendations for future research.