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Exploring the Neural Correlates of Cognitive Reappraisal in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Using Task-based Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: March 14, 2025
An explorative study on metacognition in obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder
Michele Cucchi1, Vittoria Bottelli, Daniele Cavadini
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Scientific Institute and University, Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Stamira D'Ancona 20, 20127 Milan, Italy. cucchi.michele@hsr.it
Comprehensive Psychiatry
|October 25, 2011
Summary
Dysfunctional metacognitions, or negative beliefs about thinking, are common in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder (PD). These beliefs may contribute to vulnerability and maintenance of these anxiety disorders.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Metacognitions are beliefs about cognition.
- Dysfunctional metacognitions may represent a general vulnerability factor for anxiety disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate metacognitive beliefs in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder (PD).
- To examine correlations between metacognitive beliefs and symptoms of OCD and PD.
Main Methods:
- Assessed metacognitive beliefs using the Metacognition Questionnaire (MCQ).
- Compared metacognitive beliefs in patients with OCD (n=114), PD (n=119), and healthy subjects (HS, n=101).
Main Results:
- OCD and PD patients scored higher on negative beliefs about worry (uncontrollability, danger) and need to control thoughts compared to HS.
- No differences in MCQ scores were found between OCD and PD groups.
- Specific metacognitive dimensions correlated with indecisiveness in OCD and anticipatory anxiety in PD.
Conclusions:
- Dysfunctional metacognitions are present in both OCD and PD.
- These beliefs may act as general vulnerability factors for anxiety disorders.
- Metacognitive beliefs contribute to the maintenance of OCD and PD symptoms.
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