A Brief Worry Reappraisal Paradigm (REAP) Increases Coping with Worries

Nehjla M. Mashal*, Sherry A. Beaudreau, Michael A. Hernandez, Rachel Cackler Duller, Holly Romaniak, Ki Eun Shin, Ken A. Paller, Richard E. Zinbarg

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

The current study examined a novel computerized cognitive reappraisal paradigm (REAP) for worry management in college-aged adults with a range of PSWQ scores (n = 98). Participants listed three current worries and were randomized to either REAP or a worry condition. For the REAP condition, participants selected positive reappraisal statements of their worries over negative ones. Before and after completing the reappraisal or worry task, participants discussed each worry. Participants rated their worries on coping ability, distress, and probability the worry would materialize. Relative to worry, the REAP group rated an increase in ability to cope with their worries whereas the results failed to provide evidence for a similar increase among the worry group. If similar findings emerge in clinical populations, REAP may eventually serve as a useful tool in augmenting cognitive behavioral therapy protocols.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)216-228
Number of pages13
JournalCognitive Therapy and Research
Volume44
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2020

Keywords

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Cognitive reappraisal
  • Cognitive therapy
  • Computerized reappraisal
  • Worry

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology

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