Cognitive distancing, cognitive restructuring, and cardiovascular recovery from stress.
Research suggests that phasic changes in cardiovascular reactivity can increase the risk of heart disease, yet much of this research has focused on the magnitude rather than the duration of reactivity. In recent years, studies have confirmed that recovery time is also a significant predictor of future heart cardiovascular disorders. Here we review these studies, as well as the cognitions and behaviors that have been found to influence recovery. We suggest that a useful distinction is that some utilize cognitive distancing while others seem to be based on cognitive restructuring. These different approaches have implications for the immediacy and permanence of the recovery effects. Finally, we outline the questions that have yet to be answered about recovery and how it could influence long-term health.
Larsen
Britta A
BA
University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093-0109, United States. blarsen@ucsd.edu
Christenfeld
Nicholas J S
NJ
D000818:Animals; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000523:psychology; D002319:Cardiovascular System; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology*