Effectiveness of conventional cognitive-behavioral therapy and its computerized version on reduction in pain intensity, depression, anger, and anxiety in children with cancer: a randomized, controlled trial

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of conventional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and its computerized version (cCBT) in reducing pain intensity, depression, anger, and anxiety in children with cancer. Forty-five children aged 9–12 years were randomly assigned to three groups: CBT, cCBT, and control. Both intervention groups received six sessions of psychological treatment, while the control group received only routine medical care. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using validated scales including Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, Children’s Depression Inventory, STAXI, and STAI. Results showed significant reductions in all four psychological variables in both intervention groups compared to the control group (P < 0.0001). No significant difference was found between CBT and cCBT, although CBT showed slightly greater reduction in anger. The findings suggest that cCBT can be a viable alternative when access to psychological services is limited, offering a cost-effective and accessible solution for pediatric oncology care.

He is Vajihe Hamedi, a PhD graduate in Clinical Psychology from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz. With over 17 years of experience in psychotherapy and research, his work focuses on child and adolescent mental health. Currently, he serve as a psychologist at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. His research interests include cognitive-behavioural therapy, pain management, and emotional regulation in pediatric populations, and he have contributed to several studies in these areas.