Title
Imaginal exposure for chronic worry : the role of anxious arousal and imaginal sensory information
Date of Award
2010
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Psychology
Abstract
This study examined the effect of exposure script references to anxious physiological sensations and the five senses upon anxious arousal during a single 30-minute imaginal exposure. Forty-five high worriers were randomized to two conditions: Comprehensive (all reference types included) or Limited (only visual and auditory references included). Anxious arousal was measured via heart rate (HR), skin conductance level (SCL) and self-report. Both conditions exhibited increased arousal patterns from baseline. SCL did not significantly decrease in either condition during exposure. For self-reported anxiety, Comprehensive participants exhibited significant decreases throughout exposure; but Limited participants demonstrated significant increases. Comprehensive participants reported significantly greater anticipated ability to cope after exposure. Results are discussed in the context of emotional processing theory.
Recommended Citation
Henderson, Leigh Curtis, "Imaginal exposure for chronic worry : the role of anxious arousal and imaginal sensory information" (2010). Theses and dissertations. Paper 860.
http://digitalcommons.ryerson.ca/dissertations/860