Seeing the bigger picture: Training in perspective broadening reduces self-reported affect and psychophysiological response to distressing films and autobiographical memories.

Abstract

Appraising negative experiences in ways that reduce associated distress is a key component of successful emotion regulation. In 4 studies, the authors examined the effects of systematically practicing appraisal skills using a computer-mediated cognitive bias modification (CBM) methodology. In Studies 1-3, healthy participants practiced applying appraisal themes linked to the idea of seeing the bigger picture to a series of distressing training films, either during each film (Study 1) or immediately after each film (Studies 2 and 3). Control participants watched the same films with no appraisal instructions. Participants who practiced appraisal, compared with controls, exhibited reduced levels of self-reported negative emotional (Studies 1-3) and electrodermal (Study 1) responses to a final test film that all participants were instructed to appraise. In Study 4, a comparable effect of appraisal practice was found using distressing autobiographical memories for participants with higher levels of negative affect. Appraisal practice also led to reduced intrusion and avoidance of the target memories in the week poststudy, compared with prestudy levels, and relative to the no-practice controls. The findings are discussed in terms of the broader literature on CBM.

Virtual agent-mediated appraisal training: a single case series among Dutch firefighters

“…A decrease in positive affect over time was to be expected, however this effect was marginally less so at post-training. These results differ from those of Schartau et al (2009), and this could be due to the nature of the films, the effects of repeated exposure to negative content or perhaps participants found the task itself not engaging. No change in negative mood was reported.…”

“…Schartau et al (2009) studied the effects of reappraisal training in the short-term, focusing on emotional recovery and change in thinking, whereas in this study we looked at appraisals and thought process over a longer period of time. The hypothesis that participants would be more flexible in applying appraisals following the four-session training was confirmed in that the number of themes and appraisals increased after the training.…”

“…This was done with appraisal themes similar to those of Schartau et al (2009). Upon consultation with a domain expert and a social worker at the fire department, the following four themes were chosen as most applicable to the population: seeing the positive aspects (silver lining), giving meaning (i.e.…”

“…Instead of reappraising a past event, appraisal modification has also been considered as a way of coping with new traumatic events. For example, Schartau, Dalgleish, and Dunn (2009), studied the effects of practicing appraisal themes using cognitive bias modification methodology. During the training, four appraisal themes (e.g.…”

“…The training is based on Schartau et al’s (2009) training in perspective broadening and is intended as a preventative measure to prepare individuals for future life stressors. It is a form of cognitive bias modification where the focus lies with practicing reappraisal in response to potentially distressing films.…”