Deep cognitive activation: A new approach to the unconscious.

Abstract

Deep cognitive activation occurs when a thought is so accessible as to have measurable effects on behavior or judgement, but is yet not consciously reportable. This state of mind has unique properties mimicking some characteristics of the psychoanalytic unconscious, but following theoretically from a consideration of processes of cognitive activation. The sources and consequences of deep cognitive activation are examined, with a view toward understanding how this state is implicated in the assessment, etiology, and treatment of psychopathology.

The Effects of Concealing Academic Achievement Information on Adolescents’ Self-Concept

“…However, previous research has proved that lack of conscious reporting does not entail lack of implicit cognitive activation (Wegner et al, 1997). Thoughts that are not present at the conscious level can be activated at an unconscious, implicit level (Wegner et al, 1997).…”

“…although suppression can be an effective way of maintaining a secret in the beginning, it can also cause the deep cognitive activation of this information and its related thoughts. Deep cognitive activation is a transition of mental state whereby thoughts are transferred from unconsciousness to consciousness (Wegner & Smart, 1997). This state is unstable in that it represents a combination of the tendency to think about something and the effort expended not to think about that very same thing (Wegner et al, 1997).…”

“…Deep cognitive activation is a transition of mental state whereby thoughts are transferred from unconsciousness to consciousness (Wegner & Smart, 1997). This state is unstable in that it represents a combination of the tendency to think about something and the effort expended not to think about that very same thing (Wegner et al, 1997). When the efforts to suppress are removed, the target and its related thoughts will activate and become accessible for individuals (Wegner et al, 1997).…”

“…This state is unstable in that it represents a combination of the tendency to think about something and the effort expended not to think about that very same thing (Wegner et al, 1997). When the efforts to suppress are removed, the target and its related thoughts will activate and become accessible for individuals (Wegner et al, 1997). Wegner (1994) argued that suppression is an effortful cognitive operation that cannot be used effectively when the cognitive resources are not sufficient.…”

“…Suppressing secret related thoughts can be an effective way to maintain a secret, but it also can cause deep cognitive activation of the secret and its relevant thoughts (e.g., Wegner & Smart, 1997). In other words, when adolescents try to conceal their identity and suppress their dominant self-concept, the dominant self-concept and its related thoughts may be in the state of deep activation.…”