Affective forecasting and psychopathology: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychopathology Research
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Affective forecasting, the estimation of future emotional reactions, is crucial for decision-making.
• Biases in affective forecasting are observed generally and in individuals with emotional disturbances.
• The role of affective forecasting in psychopathology models is under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of methods used to measure affective forecasting in psychopathology research.
• To synthesize the evidence on the association between affective forecasting and psychopathology.
• To identify gaps and future directions in this research area.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed.
• Searched three databases for quantitative research published up to November 13th, 2023.
• Data were charted to summarize methodological approaches and evidence on the association.

Main Results:

• Significant heterogeneity exists in how affective forecasting is operationalized.
• Most evidence indicates a positive association between psychopathology severity and the intensity of affective forecasts.
• Notable exceptions to this association are discussed in relation to methodology.

Conclusions:

• Affective forecasting is a relevant construct in understanding psychopathology.
• Further investigation is needed to elucidate its role in the development and maintenance of mental health conditions.
• Affective forecasting may represent a viable target for therapeutic interventions.