Cognitive processes associated with emotional disorders: implications for efficient psychological treatments
Jorge Corpas1,2,3, Juan A Moriana1,2,3, Jose F Venceslá1,2,3
1Department of Psychology, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.
Journal of Mental Health (Abingdon, England)
|May 14, 2021
Summary
Emotional disorders (EDs) are common, and cognitive factors like rumination and worry are linked to symptoms. Targeting these cognitive processes may improve psychological treatments for anxiety and depression.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Emotional disorders (EDs) are the most prevalent globally.
- Psychotherapies are the primary treatment, but implementation faces challenges.
- Cognitive processes are known to correlate with anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between cognitive factors and specific/non-specific ED symptoms.
- To inform the development of more effective psychological treatments.
- To explore the roles of rumination, worry, and metacognition in EDs.
Main Methods:
- Correlation and linear regression analyses were used.
- A clinical sample of 116 individuals was studied.
- The study examined rumination, worry, and metacognition in relation to generalized anxiety, panic, and depression symptoms.
Main Results:
- Each specific ED showed a stronger association with a particular cognitive process.
- All general ED symptoms were linked to the three cognitive factors investigated.
- Cognitive factors significantly predict ED symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Targeting specific cognitive processes may be effective for "pure" EDs.
- Due to high comorbidity, a transdiagnostic approach considering all cognitive factors is recommended.
- Disseminating transdiagnostic treatments can improve care for emotional disorders.
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