Abstract:
BACKGROUND : Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy has shown effectiveness in managing chronic tinnitus. Internet-based cognitive
behavioral therapy is currently available in only a few languages (English, Swedish, Spanish, and German). The current study aimed to adapt,
evaluate, and compare the readability and acceptability of the Turkish internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy materials compared to previous
versions.
METHODS : Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy materials were adapted from the preexisting American English to the Turkish population
in a 4-step process: (1) cultural adaptations, (2) acceptability adaptation of materials to the Turkish-speaking population, and (3) literacy-level
adjustments. Experts (n = 11) and patients (n = 11) rated the intervention materials and the ePlatform for acceptability, including usability, content,
presentation, and suitability (4).
RESULTS : Literacy-level adjustments generated acceptable and readability levels of the Turkish version of the internet-based cognitive behavioral
therapy program. The average readability score was 76.15 ± 0.35. The Turkish internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (Mdn: 7.00) was
statistically lower compared to the Swedish (Mdn: 9.00) but higher when compared to the American English and Spanish (Mdn: 5.00) versions.
There were no statistical differences between the British English and Turkish versions in readability scores. Acceptability in the internet-based
cognitive behavioral therapy platform was rated favorably.
CONCLUSION : The Turkish internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy was found to be user-friendly and easy to understand, with navigations
that are straightforward, have clear information, and are supported by audiologists. The readability score of the Turkish internet-based cognitive
behavioral therapy is within recommended limits to ensure comprehensibility. We suggest that an online cognitive behavioral therapy program
is adaptable for other languages for countries with a limited number of clinicians focused on cognitive behavioral therapy and tinnitus.
