Role of prior negative cognitions on the development of intrusive thoughts

Abstract

This analogue study examined how individuals' prior negative cognitions influenced intrusion frequency, intrusion-related distress and thought suppression. Participants at high (HR) and low risk (LR) for interpreting their intrusive thoughts in a negative manner viewed a graphic trauma film and their subsequent intrusion development was assessed. HR participants experienced a greater frequency of intrusions and intrusion-related distress compared to LR participants. Trait thought suppression moderated the relationship between risk for the negative interpretation of intrusions and intrusion frequency. The findings suggest that pre-existing negative cognitions are influential in the development of intrusions following exposure to an analogue trauma. © The Australian Psychological Society Ltd.