Spontaneous causal searching and adjustment to abnormal Papanicolaou test results

A search for the cause of unexpected negative events has been proposed to occur commonly and to promote adjustment. The purpose of this descriptive study was to determine the frequency of spontaneous causal searching about abnormal Papanicolaou test (Pap) results and the relationship between searching and adjustment to these results. Participants (N = 118) had abnormal Pap results indicating a need for follow-up with colposcopy. The questions asked on hearing these results were coded for content reflecting spontaneous causal searching. Measures of adjustment (type of expectations about follow-up, negative emotions, and prompt attendance) were obtained at follow-up. Only 34% of participants spontaneously asked causal questions. Causal searching was not associated with expectations, emotions, or attendance.