Abstract
It is known that negative cognitions are more likely to intensify in depressed moods. Moreover, research on depression has indicated that strong negative thinking in dysphoria is associated with the vulnerability to depression. More recent studies have also suggested that experiencing feelings or thoughts, while not identifying with them can contribute to the reduction and the treatment of depression. One such experience is metacognitive awareness (MCA), however there have been little research about its function. Therefore, the effect of MCA on reactivity of negative thinking was investigated. Results indicated that participants with a lower MCA intensified negative thoughts when they become depressed, whereas those with a higher MCA did not when becoming depressed. In other words, individuals with high MCA had less reactivity of negative thinking. It is suggested that improving MCA can decrease the reactivity of negative thinking, which, in turn could produce a prophylactic effect on depression.
