A critical review and meta-analysis of interventions to reduce compulsivity in behavioral addictions and related conditions

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This preregistered review aims to identify and assess the effectiveness of intervention tools designed to reverse, counteract, or reduce compulsivity in behavioral addictions and related conditions. The review covers reconditioning techniques, non-invasive brain stimulation, and mindfulness/non-judgmental observation interventions, and meta-analyzes their effects using random-effect models. Moderation by tool type, behavioral domain, and methodological quality was assessed, and several tests of publication and reporting bias were conducted. Recent Findings: Compulsivity is a core characteristic of addictive behaviors, as individuals with addiction feel increasingly compelled to act in ways that go against their own best interests. Viewing compulsivity as a result of conditioning processes causing loss of control over behavior has led to the development of tools to reverse or reduce the expression of those processes, but their effectiveness in behavioral addictions and related conditions remains insufficiently researched. Summary: Although compulsivity-oriented interventions hold potential, the current evidence base is limited by small-study effects and insufficient methodological rigor. A shift toward more robust, theory-driven studies is needed to effectively isolate the techniques' impact and improve therapeutic outcomes.