Effects of induced elated and depressed mood on self-focused attention.
Recent accounts of depression propose a central role for increased self-focus in the onset and maintenance of depression. The present study investigated whether there might also be a converse effect of depressed mood increasing self-focus. A state measure of self-focused attention was administered to normal subjects before and after induction of depressed or happy mood. Compared to happy subjects, depressed subjects showed more negative and less positive self-focus. Positive and negative external focus were unaffected by mood. A reciprocally reinforcing relationship between depressed mood and negative self-focus may be important in onset and maintenance of depression.
Sigma, Oxford, UK.
S J
SJ
Carr
J D
JD
Teasdale
D
D
Broadbent
D000328:Adult; D001288:Attention; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012649:Self Concept; D012931:Social Environment; D013850:Thinking