Triple-R as an Explanatory Theory for the Efficacy of Sleep Restriction Therapy: An Application of the Productive Explanation Framework

Résumé fourni par la source

Sleep restriction therapy (SRT) is an effective treatment for insomnia. The Triple-R theory has been proposed to explain the efficacy of SRT based on three processes: restricting time in bed, regulating sleep and wake times, and reconditioning of the bed-sleep association. However, it is difficult to determine whether the proposed processes explain the efficacy of SRT. Part of this difficulty is because Triple-R is a verbal theory: As verbal theories make few specific predictions, it is difficult to evaluate which data patterns the theory implies. The productive explanation framework proposes that translating a verbal theory into a formal model solves this problem by enabling to simulate data that follows from the theory and as such revealing testable predictions. In the current paper, we apply the productive explanation framework to examine whether the Triple-R theory can account for the efficacy of SRT. We show that the formalized Triple-R theory reproduces data patterns observed in empirical studies, although not all empirical phenomena are reproduced. According to the productive explanation framework, we conclude that the Triple-R theory provides a partial explanation of the efficacy of SRT. In addition, the formalized Triple-R theory makes predictions that can guide new clinical trials. Ultimately, this application of the productive explanation framework provides a better understanding of the mechanisms suggested by the Triple-R theory.

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