Different methods of single-session disclosure: what works for whom?
OBJECTIVE
Examine distress, emotional approach coping, and attachment as moderators of effects of written (WED) versus interpersonal (IED) emotional disclosure and written time management (WTM).


METHODS
Fifty-seven undergraduates with stressful experiences randomized to a single session of WED, IED, or WTM. Assessment of immediate reaction (NA) and 6-week follow-up (intrusions/avoidance).


RESULTS
Those with higher baseline distress had increased NA, avoidance and intrusions when engaged in WED or IED (vs. WTM). For emotional processors, WED (vs. IED) produced less NA, avoidance, and intrusions. Attachment predicted increased NA in WTM.


CONCLUSIONS
Baseline distress and personality characteristics form boundary conditions for written disclosure.
Cohen
Jay L
JL
Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA. jay.cohen@wayne.edu
Sander
Lindsay M
LM
Slavin
Olga M
OM
Lumley
Mark A
MA
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D012650:Self Disclosure; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires