Abstract
Distraction is considered to be a useful strategy for regulating moods in daily life. However, distraction may produce a reverse effect, and furthermore, dependence on distraction can be a very serious problem. The present study investigates ways that the cognitive strategies of reframing and planning may reduce dependence on distraction, so that distraction can be used more effectively. A questionnaire measuring the effects of reframing and planning was completed by 213 college students. The questionnaire presented 2 stressful contexts for the future events and the past events, and students responded as to what they would do. The results, analyzed with multiple regression analysis, were as follows: planning reduced dependence on distraction for both stressful events. Reframing had different effects, depending on the stressful event, but was especially effective in the context of the future events. These results suggest that the cognitive strategies of reframing and planning could be very useful for reduction of dependence on distraction.
