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Cognitive Therapy and Research

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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Original Article

Psychological and Physiological Effects of Imagery Rescripting for Aversive Autobiographical Memories

Authors: Miriam Strohm, Marena Siegesleitner, Anna E. Kunze, Gabriela G. Werner, Thomas Ehring, Charlotte E. Wittekind

Published in: Cognitive Therapy and Research | Issue 6/2021

Abstract

Background

Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) is a promising intervention to reduce symptoms associated with aversive memories, but little is known about its working mechanisms. The present study investigates whether ImRs increases perceived mastery and attenuates emotional reactivity to memory retrieval on a subjective and physiological level.

Methods

Seventy-nine individuals reporting memories of distressing real-life events were randomly allocated to ImRs, positive imagery (PI), or no-intervention control (NIC). The memory was reactivated before the intervention and at 1-week follow-up to assess subjective measures and physiological reactivity (heart rate [HR], skin conductance level [SCL], and facial electromyography activity [EMG]) during memory retrieval.

Results

ImRs was superior to PI and NIC on subjective memory distress and helplessness, but not on other emotions. ImRs did not exceed PI and NIC in reducing state stress symptoms or increasing perceived mastery. Physiological reactivity (HR, EMG) decreased from pre-intervention to follow-up with no differences between groups.

Conclusions

Positive effects of ImRs on helplessness and distress were found. Null findings regarding mastery might result from timing of its assessment or the fact that rather high-functioning participants were included. The lack of between group differences on physiological responses indicates that ImRs did not exceed habituation effects in the present sample.

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Title: Psychological and Physiological Effects of Imagery Rescripting for Aversive Autobiographical Memories
Authors: Miriam Strohm
Marena Siegesleitner
Anna E. Kunze
Gabriela G. Werner
Thomas Ehring
Charlotte E. Wittekind
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Cognitive Therapy and Research / Issue 6/2021
Print ISSN: 0147-5916
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2819
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-021-10233-5

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Psychological and Physiological Effects of Imagery Rescripting for Aversive Autobiographical Memories

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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