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Behaviour Research and Therapy
Volume 44, Issue 3, March 2006, Pages 395-413
 
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doi:10.1016/j.brat.2005.02.006    How to Cite or Link Using DOI (Opens New Window)
Copyright © 2005 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved.

Does threatening imagery sensitize distress during contaminant exposure?

Nicole M. Dorfan and Sheila R. WoodyCorresponding Author Contact Information, E-mail The Corresponding Author

Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4

Received 11 August 2004; 
revised 18 February 2005; 
accepted 22 February 2005. 
Available online 23 May 2005.

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Abstract

Prominent models of fear focus on the role of cognition in the development and maintenance of maladaptive responses. Little research, however, has evaluated the impact of cognition on distress reduction. The current study uses an experimental design to examine the effect of different types of imagery (moving harm, static harm, and safety) on reduction of distress associated with a contaminating stimulus in a normal university sample. Results indicate that use of moving harm imagery sensitizes distress during a 30-min exposure, whereas static harm and safety imagery reduce distress. These findings demonstrate that cognitive factors can moderate affective response during exposure. Clinical implications for the treatment of anxiety disorders are discussed.

Keywords: Fear reduction; Disgust; Cognition; OCD; Looming vulnerability

Article Outline

Introduction
Cognitive theories
Cognition and distress reduction
Method
Research design
Participants
Measures
Exposure stimulus
Procedure
Results
Criteria for inclusion in data analysis
Sample characteristics
Exposure refusers
Manipulation check
Baseline distress and stimulus introduction
Imagery introduction and distress reduction
Participants with clinically elevated contamination scores
Lingering distress (after washing)
Threat appraisals
Discussion
Acknowledgements
References




 
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