Effects of Cognitive-Behavioral Factors and Mindfulness on Cognitive Reactivity: A Comparison with Depressive Symptoms

Abstract

　This study aimed to clarify the effects of cognitive-behavioral factors and mindfulness traits on cognitive reactivity. We further examined whether mindfulness traits had an impact on cognitive reactivity in those who have not experienced a major depressive episode (MDE). A set of measures of past MDE experiences, automatic thoughts, behavioral activation, mindfulness traits, depressive symptoms, and cognitive reactivity was administered to 312 participants aged 18 years and older. The results of hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that, in addition to modifying negative automatic thoughts, mindfulness traits of avoiding being judgmental about one’s thoughts and paying attention to the present moment could reduce cognitive reactivity. In addition, enhancing mindfulness traits may significantly reduce cognitive reactivity regardless of whether the patient has experienced MDE or not. Therefore, enhancing mindfulness traits from the time of initial depression treatment may contribute to relapse prevention.