Probing motivation in internalizing symptoms: A systematic review of the effort expenditure for rewards task (EEfRT).

In 30 seconds

This systematic review examined the Effort Expenditure for Rewards Task (EEfRT) across 46 studies involving clinical samples with internalizing disorders. The review highlighted that individuals with internalizing symptoms demonstrated reduced motivation to exert effort for monetary rewards compared to healthy controls in about 40% of the studies. Most studies employed a cross-sectional design.

Key findings

• 76% of studies used a cross-sectional design, focusing on unselected samples with internalizing symptoms.
• Approximately 40% of studies found reduced motivation for effort in individuals with internalizing disorders compared to healthy controls.
• 50% of studies modified the original EEfRT task design, impacting comparability.
• 72% of studies used the proportion of hard task choice as the primary outcome measure.

Why it matters

Understanding the motivation behind effort-based decision-making in individuals with internalizing disorders can inform treatment approaches and improve patient outcomes. Consistent methodologies are essential for advancing research in this area.