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Flexibility between immersion and distancing: A dynamic pattern with effect on depressive symptoms
Eunice Barbosa1,2,3, Marlene Sousa1, Cristina Cavadas Montanha4
1Center of Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
Summary
Flexibility between first-person immersion and third-person distancing in therapy is key for depression treatment. Frequent, rapid shifts between these perspectives during reflection predict fewer depressive symptoms post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy Research
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Psychotherapy utilizes immersion (first-person) and distancing (third-person) perspectives.
- Both perspectives show potential in treating depression.
- Dynamic shifts between immersion and distancing may foster adaptive reality views.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess if greater flexibility between immersion and distancing during negative experience reflection correlates with reduced depressive symptoms.
- Investigate the association between perspective-shifting frequency/magnitude and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of perspective transitions (frequency and magnitude) in 17 depression cases.
- Focus on representative sessions from the intermediate therapy phase.
- Quantified flexibility through transition patterns.
Main Results:
- Higher frequency of transitions between immersion and distancing was linked to better outcomes.
- Lower magnitude of transitions also predicted reduced depressive symptoms.
- Greater flexibility in the intermediate phase was a significant predictor.
Conclusions:
- Immersion and distancing function as dynamic therapeutic processes.
- Enhanced flexibility, marked by frequent, rapid perspective shifts, appears adaptive.
- This dynamic pattern positively impacts depressive symptom levels post-treatment.
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