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Two studies explored whether Hated Self and Inadequate Self forms of self-criticism demonstrate different relationships to self-critical rumination (SCR), metacognitive beliefs, decentering and psychopathology. In study 1, 137 community participants experiencing SCR completed an online questionnaire battery. Self-hate was associated with higher SCR, stronger positive and negative metabeliefs about SCR, higher psychopathology and nonreactivity to internal experiences. Effects of Inadequate Self on psychopathology were fully mediated by SCR whereas Hated Self exerted direct effects on psychopathology alongside indirect effects via SCR. Study 2 explored whether higher self-hate attenuated the ability to detach from SCR triggers. Twenty-three participants received a single-session detached mindfulness intervention; pre-post changes in study 1 questionnaires and daily diary ratings of study 1 constructs in the week before and after the intervention were compared. Most measures improved; higher self-hate was not associated with reduced response. Although self-hate confers risk for psychopathology outside SCR, metacognitive interventions both undermine uncontrollability beliefs and facilitate decentering, so should continue to be investigated as interventions for SCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personality dysfunction operationalized as impairment in self- and interpersonal functioning is a characteristic of personality disorders. The metacognitive model suggests that dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs are a common cause of psychological disorders, but the relevance and importance of metacognitions for personality dysfunction is less explored and was the objective for the current study. In a sample of 1278 individuals, we conducted a multiple hierarchical regression analysis to test the predictive role of metacognitive beliefs for personality dysfunction. We found a unique and independent contribution from negative beliefs about the uncontrollability and danger of worry and lower cognitive confidence to personality dysfunction whilst controlling age, gender, maladaptive personality traits, big-5 personality traits, emotional distress symptoms, and general psychosocial functioning. The results bring further support for the metacognitive model of psychological disorders which may be relevant for formulation and treatment of personality dysfunction and disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the metacognitive model of emotion dysregulation as a basis, this study explored whether, among participants with substance use disorders (SUDs), metacognitive beliefs and repetitive negative thinking were associated with emotion dysregulation. 127 participants with SUDs and 127 controls without SUDs were recruited. Emotion dysregulation, metacognitive beliefs, rumination, worry, anxiety, and depression were assessed. t -tests, Mann–Whitney tests, logistic regression, correlation, and hierarchal regression analyses were run. Participants with SUDs reported significantly higher levels of emotion dysregulation, positive beliefs about worry, beliefs about the need to control thoughts, rumination, and worry, compared to controls without SUDs. Among participants with SUDs negative beliefs about thoughts concerning uncontrollability and danger, cognitive confidence, beliefs about the need to control thoughts, rumination, and worry were significantly associated with an increase of emotion dysregulation. The cross-sectional design. Emotion dysregulation, metacognitive beliefs, and repetitive negative thinking may contribute to increase the risk of substance use. Among participants with SUDs emotion dysregulation is associated with the tendency to endorse dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs and report repetitive negative thinking. Metacognitive beliefs and repetitive negative thinking could be a suitable therapeutic target to reduce emotion dysregulation among participants with SUDs. • Emotion dysregulation may increase the risk of substance use. • Dysfunctional metacognitions are associated with emotion dysregulation in SUDs subjects. • Engagement in worry is associated with emotion dysregulation in SUDs subjects. • Engagement in rumination is associated with emotion dysregulation in SUDs subjects. • Metacognitions may be a therapeutic target to reduce emotion dysregulation in SUDs subjects. • Repetitive negative thinking may be a therapeutic target to reduce emotion dysregulation in SUDs subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: According to the self‐medication hypothesis, worriers use substances to cope with their symptoms; however, some published results have challenged this hypothesis. The aim of this study is to show if worry increases the risk of SUD when it is negatively appraised by negative metacognitive beliefs. Method: We recruited three samples: 68 patients with a severe AUD, 27 patients dependent on eating and 42 control participants. We used the Yale Food Addiction Scale‐2, the Metacognitions Questionnaire‐65, the UPPS‐P Impulsive Behaviour Scale and the Anxiety Thoughts Inventory. Results: We confirmed a direct effect of worries and metaworry on alcohol (AUD) and eating addiction (EA), but our multivariate analyses revealed that metacognitive beliefs and metaworry are the most robust predictors of alcohol and eating addiction. Discussion: We reported substance‐related differences in the relationship between worry and addiction. AUD is related to the metacognitive activity set in motion by worries while EA is associated with a maladaptive form of worry (meta‐worry) where worries are negatively interpreted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Metacognitions Questionnaire – Short Form (MCQ-30) was designed as a parsimonious measure of the metacognitive beliefs and processes implicated in the maintenance of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). The present study sought to examine the psychometric properties and clinical utility of the MCQ-30 among people with GAD. One hundred and thirty-nine adults diagnosed with GAD and 76 non-clinical controls completed the MCQ-30 and self-report measures of worry, fear of anxiety, attempted thought suppression, distress, GAD symptoms, and interference. A five-factor structure was evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Among the clinical sample, CFA supported the construct validity of the scale, although the relationship between the factors differed from community samples. Evidence was found for the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent, convergent and criterion validity of the MCQ-30 in people with GAD. The treatment sensitivity and clinical responsiveness of the scale were also demonstrated, with the Uncontrollability and Danger Beliefs subscale identified as the most accurate predictor of clinical status. This subscale also exhibited the strongest correlations with most symptom measures, highlighting the cardinal role played by negative beliefs about worry in maintaining clinical levels of GAD. This study provides the first evidence of the reliability, validity and clinical utility of the MCQ-30 with people diagnosed with GAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although social anxiety disorder (SAD) is widespread and associated with significant distress, its etiology is not yet fully explored. We aimed to examine how metacognitions and mindfulness interact with SAD symptoms. 531 college students were enrolled in this study. Participants completed the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), the Metacognition Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30), and the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). A path analysis was run to explore the associations between test variables. A positive correlation was found between metacognition and SAD symptoms, while mindfulness negatively correlated with SAD symptoms and metacognition. In the established path model, metacognition had an indirect effect on SAD symptoms, which is partially mediated by mindfulness. Our findings imply that metacognitions and mindfulness may influence SAD symptoms among young adults. Mindfulness seems to have a prominent role in regulating metacognition's effects on SAD symptoms. Therefore, interventions that accurately target these factors may alleviate the symptoms of this debilitating psychological disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Within-person tests of proposed mechanisms of depression are needed. • Dysfunctional attitudes are central vulnerability-factors in cognitive models. • Metacognitive beliefs are assumed to be central in the metacognitive model. • Metacognitive beliefs were stronger predictors of depressive symptoms. • Metacognitive beliefs predicted dysfunctional attitudes beyond depressive symptoms. Understanding within-person variation between theorized mechanisms of disorder and depressive symptoms can help identify targets for interventions. Cognitive models of depression hypothesize dysfunctional attitudes as underlying vulnerability factors, while the metacognitive model places emphasis on dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs. However, no previous study has tested the relative importance of change in dysfunctional attitudes and metacognitive beliefs as predictors of change in depressive symptoms within individuals. In a sample of 1,418 individuals measured at four time-points separated by 5-week intervals, a multilevel model approach was used to test the relative importance of change in dysfunctional attitudes and metacognitive beliefs as predictors of change in depressive symptoms. Change in dysfunctional attitudes and metacognitive beliefs predicted change in depressive symptoms over time. However, change in metacognitive beliefs and in particular negative metacognitive beliefs and judgements of cognitive confidence were significantly stronger predictors of change in depressive symptoms compared to dysfunctional attitudes. Furthermore, change in metacognitive beliefs predicted change in dysfunctional attitudes beyond change in depressive symptoms. These results suggest that metacognitive beliefs rather than dysfunctional attitudes might be more important for depressive symptoms over time within persons and that metacognitive change may also influence dysfunctional attitudes over time. Metacognitive beliefs are therefore a promising target for treatment and prevention aiming to reduce depressive symptoms, but replication of our results in clinical samples is warranted before more clear conclusions can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There has been an increasing interest in understanding what contributes to the development and what maintains posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The cognitive model emphasizes that it is a disturbance of the autobiographical memory for the trauma, cognitive beliefs and maladaptive behaviour that maintain trauma symptoms. Interventions are based on cognitive restructuring and behaviour experiments to modify these beliefs. In contrast, the metacognitive model emphasizes that it is the metacognitive beliefs that give rise to the cognitive attentional syndrome (CAS) that maintain trauma symptoms. The focus of treatment is reducing CAS and working on metacognitive beliefs. The aim of this study was to explore the contribution of cognitions and metacognitive beliefs to trauma symptoms and investigate what predicts symptom burden in traumatized patients. Method: Participants (N = 290) diagnosed with PTSD were included, and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed to explore if cognitions and metacognitive beliefs explained additional and independent variance in trauma symptoms while controlling for age and gender. Results: Both cognitions and metacognitive beliefs contributed independently and significantly to predicting trauma symptoms. Conclusion: The results provide further support for investigating what maintains trauma symptoms and what to target in treatment. This may have clinical implications for our theoretical and practical understanding of PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Many traumatic events, including physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, occur for girls. Evidence shows that such experiences can lead to a range of psychological effects. Adolescent girls' confrontation with these traumas has negative consequences on their mental health. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy on the metacognitive beliefs and social competence of sexually abused girls aged 9 to 13 years. Methods and Materials: This research employed a quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. From 43 sexually abused girls aged 9 to 13 who referred to Peyvand Counseling Services and Razi Psychological Services affiliated with the Alborz Province Department of Education, a sample of 30 was selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned into two groups of 15 (one group received cognitive-behavioral therapy and the control group received no intervention). The instruments used in this study were the Cognitive Beliefs Questionnaire (Baco et al., 1990) and the Social Competence Questionnaire (Felner et al., 2009). Data were analysed by SPSS-27 and analysis of covariance method. Findings: The results of covariance analysis showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy led to an increase in positive metacognitive beliefs and a decrease in negative metacognitive beliefs (p ≤ 0.005). Additionally, the results indicated that the cognitive-behavioral approach was effective in increasing the social competence of sexually abused girls (p ≤ 0.005). Conclusion: Based on the research findings, it is suggested to use cognitive-behavioral therapy to improve the metacognitive beliefs and social competence of sexually abused girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individual differences in global self-esteem are associated with general psychological functioning and well-being, and lower self-esteem could be a target for prevention and treatment interventions. Traditionally, self-esteem is assumed to be influenced by the content of self-beliefs, but the metacognitive model of psychological disorders presents an alternative. It emphasizes mental regulation over the content in self-beliefs and suggests a role for metacognitive beliefs and corresponding metacognitive strategies. Thus, the metacognitive model has the potential to advance our understanding of self-esteem and provide new treatment interventions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test a basic metacognitive model of self-esteem. In a cross-sectional design, 522 participants from a convenience sample completed a battery of self-report questionnaires. A metacognitive model where metacognitive strategies mediated the relationship between metacognitive beliefs and self-esteem was tested using structural equation modelling. Stronger endorsements of dysfunctional metacognitions were associated with more use of unhelpful metacognitive strategies, which further was significantly related to lower self-esteem. These relationships held even when controlling gender, age, anxiety, and personality traits as covariates. The results suggests that there is a role for dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs and strategies in self-esteem of which metacognitive strategies are the most proximal influence. This observation indicates that individual differences in mental regulation are relevant to understanding and possibly improving self-esteem. Interventions which effectively lead to metacognitive change are likely to have a positive effect on self-esteem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seventy‐five per cent of UK suicides are completed by men, and associated masculinity beliefs are well researched. The self‐regulatory executive functioning (S‐REF) model of distress is governed by metacognitive beliefs about mental processes, such as worry and rumination. Little is known about metacognition in male suicidality and how these processes interact with masculinity beliefs, suicidal ideation and behaviour. Aims: To identify which aspects of the S‐REF model were present in a sample of men experiencing suicidality, and to consider how these processes interact with masculinity beliefs, suicidal ideation and behaviour. Method: Fifteen men experiencing suicidal ideation or behaviour were recruited from a home‐based treatment team. Semi‐structured interviews and self‐report measures were administered to identify metacognitive processes and masculinity beliefs. Interviews were analysed using the framework approach. Results: The S‐REF model was identified across three super‐ordinate themes; 'the cognitive attentional syndrome (CAS) and maladaptive coping', 'metacognitive beliefs about worry, uncontrollability and danger' and 'consequences'. Thirteen sub‐ordinate themes included processes such as 'worry' and 'rumination', metacognitive beliefs such as 'worrying helps me avoid problems' and 'worry is dangerous for me' and emotional consequences such as 'overwhelm', 'emasculation' and 'escape'. Conclusion: Perseverative thinking and erroneous metacognitive beliefs were associated with reduced functioning, which was incompatible with masculinity beliefs about leadership and strength, and suicide was considered as re‐establishing control. Further research into metacognitive processes in male suicidality would enhance theoretical understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in response to the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia and the significant risk faced by individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment with multiple-domain deficits (aMCI-md). Given the promising effects of MTPs, the primary aim of this study was to further explore their impact by assessing the maintenance of their benefits. Thus, 45 participants were randomly allocated in two groups: the Experimental group (n = 22), which received the metacognitive training program (MTP), and the Control group (n = 23) that received the cognitive exercises program (CEP). The training programs—the MTP and the CEP—included 10 individual sessions of a one-hour duration and took place once per week. To test the efficacy of the MTP, cognitive and metacognitive outcomes were compared between two groups—Experimental (EG) and Control (CG)—at four distinct time points: before–after–3 months–6 months after intervention. Based on this study's findings, the positive effects of the MTP were evident over a six-month period. Specifically, already three months post-training, the CG began to show a decline in training-related gains. In contrast, the EG's performance consistently improved, highlighting the superior efficacy of the MTP. Gains attributed to the MTP were detected in cognitive measures: cognitive flexibility and immediate visual recall, as well as in metacognitive measures: metacognitive control, improved metacognitive beliefs of attention, and an increased use of cognitive strategies. In conclusion, the results demonstrated the sustained effects of the MTP in cognitive and metacognitive measures over a period of six months, providing novel insight into the application and efficacy of the MTP in individuals with MCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and purpose: Anxiety, as a part of modern human life, exists in all individuals in a moderate degree and is considered as an adaptive response to environmental stimuli. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between the activity of behavioral brain systems and anxiety sensitivity with the mediating role of metacognitive beliefs. became. Methodology: Methodology: The study population consists of all students of universities in Zahedan city between the winter of 2020 and the spring of 2021. Among them, 371 students of different levels from associate degree to doctorate were selected by non-random and available (targeted) sampling method. And finally, they answered 3 questionnaires, Jackson's five factors, Reiss and Peterson's anxiety sensitivity questionnaire, Wells' metacognitive beliefs questionnaire. Findings: The results showed that the behavioral activation system has no effect on anxiety sensitivity. Also, there is a significant negative relationship between the behavioral inhibition system and the fight, flight, and freezing system and anxiety sensitivity. On the other hand, Hanshan's findings showed that there is a significant positive correlation between most of the components of metacognitive beliefs and anxiety sensitivity, including positive beliefs about worry, cognitive certainty, the need to control thoughts, and cognitive self-awareness. While in the uncontrollability and risk component, no association was found with anxiety sensitivity. P<05% Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicate that there is a relationship between the behavioral control system in the subscale of war, flight, and freezing, and there is a significant relationship between anxiety sensitivity and most of the cognitive beliefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the mediating role of emotion regulation in the relationship between metacognitive beliefs, mindfulness, and anxiety sensitivity. Data was collected from a sample of 385 participants through a survey questionnaire. The relationships among the latent variables were analyzed using SmartPLS 3. The findings revealed significant positive relationships between mindfulness and emotion regulation, as well as anxiety sensitivity. Similarly, significant positive relationships were observed between metacognitive beliefs and emotion regulation, as well as anxiety sensitivity. Additionally, emotion regulation exhibited a significant positive relationship with anxiety sensitivity. The study further investigated the mediating role of emotion regulation in the relationships between metacognitive beliefs, mindfulness, and anxiety sensitivity. The results, indicate that emotion regulation plays a crucial mediating role in the relationship between metacognitive beliefs and anxiety sensitivity, as well as in the relationship between mindfulness and anxiety sensitivity. These findings highlight the importance of emotion regulation as a mechanism through which metacognitive beliefs and mindfulness influence anxiety sensitivity. Understanding the mediating role of emotion regulation can provide valuable insights for interventions aimed at promoting emotional well-being and reducing anxiety-related concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the relationship between metacognitive beliefs and COVID-19 phobia. The sample included 514 Turkish adults, 295 of whom are women (57,4%), and 219 are men (42,6%). Their ages ranged between 18 and 70 years (M = 32.96, SD = 10.79). COVID-19 Phobia Scale (C19P-S) and Metacognitions Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30) were administered. Our analysis showed that women reported significantly higher COVID-19 phobia. The participants with chronic illnesses showed significantly higher COVID-19 phobia and MCQ-30 scores. It was found that C19P-S total score positively correlated with negative beliefs about worry concerning uncontrollability of thoughts, the need to control thoughts, cognitive self-consciousness, positive beliefs, cognitive confidence, and MCQ-30 total score respectively (r =.47, p <.001; r =.33, p <.001; r =.30, p <.001; r =.29, p <.001; r =.12, p <.001; r =.44, p <.001). Then, hierarchical multiple regression was conducted, and the relationships were tested via structural equation modeling. To sum up, it can be concluded that negative beliefs about worry concerning the uncontrollability of thoughts contribute to COVID-19 phobia. However, explained variance was small suggesting that there are additional factors involved. These results provided preliminary findings relating to the association between metacognitive beliefs and coronavirus phobia symptoms. Further longitudinal research is necessary to determine the causal direction of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibromyalgia is a burdensome pain causing patients a very negative emotional state that can worsen their clinical profile, perceived disability, and treatment outcomes. In particular, anger can negatively affect pain and patient adjustment to the disease. Recent studies suggest that metacognitions and anger rumination can negatively affect anger, which in turn can amplify the intensity of pain. This study aims to investigate whether anger rumination and state anger serially mediate the relationship between metacognitions and the intensity of pain. The study included 446 subjects who: declared having received a fibromyalgia diagnosis by a rheumatologist/pain physician; completed measures of metacognitions, anger rumination, state-anger, and pain intensity. The serial mediation analysis was conducted using Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 6). Negative beliefs about worry and beliefs about the need to control thoughts indirectly influenced the intensity of pain through two significant mediating pathways: state-anger and anger rumination to state-anger. Cognitive self-consciousness affected pain intensity directly (β =.11, p <.05) and indirectly through two significant mediating pathways: state-anger and anger rumination to state-anger. This study highlights the role of serial mediation of anger rumination and state-anger in the relationship between metacognitions and pain intensity in the field of fibromyalgia. Our work introduces new targets for anger management interventions for patients with fibromyalgia. Such interventions could be effectively addressed with a metacognitive approach considering its specific focus on dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs and repetitive negative thinking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases are frequent causes of depression and anxiety. The study explored the metacognitive beliefs manifested by chronically ill patients and the presence of depressive or anxiety symptoms and the predictive role of metacognition in both. Methods: A total of 254 chronically ill patients participated in the study. The Metacognitive Questionnaire was used to measure the patients' metacognitive beliefs, whereas the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was applied to evaluate their psychopathological symptoms. A correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationships between metacognition and psychopathological symptoms. Regression analyses were conducted to examine the predictive role of metacognition in anxiety and depression. Results: The Negative Beliefs about Uncontrollability and Danger scale correlated with both anxiety and depression scales, and the Cognitive Confidence scale correlated with the depression scale. Linear regression analyses indicated that metacognitive beliefs were responsible for 32.2% of the variance of anxiety symptoms among all the chronically ill. Metacognitive beliefs accounted for 48.8% of the variance in anxiety symptoms and 36.6% in depressive symptoms among diabetes patients. Conclusions: There are specific correlations between psychopathological symptoms and metacognition among chronically ill patients. Metacognitions have a moderate role in developing and sustaining anxiety and depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Procrastination has many negative consequences on both physical and mental health and the ability of people to achieve goals. Therefore, it is reasonable to study to know the related factors. The present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the path of predicting academic procrastination of students based on their perfectionism and self-efficacy, considering the mediating role of metacognitive beliefs. Materials and Methods: The current research is a descriptive-correlational study. The statistical population included undergraduate psychology students of Kerman Islamic Azad University in the academic year 2022-2023, and 227 students were selected by convenience sampling and completed the scales of Savari et al.'s Academic Procrastination, Sherer and Maddux's General Self-Efficacy, Hill et al.'s Perfectionism, and Wells and Cartwright's Metacognitive Beliefs. Data were analyzed using structural equations modelling. Results: The results indicated that self-efficacy has a direct, positive and significant effect on positive metacognitive beliefs (β=0.39, p<0.01) and an inverse, negative and significant effect on negative metacognitive beliefs (β=-0.42, p<0.01) and academic procrastination (β=-0.32, p<0.01). The results also showed that perfectionism has a direct, positive and significant effect on positive metacognitive beliefs (β=0.83, p<0.01) and negative metacognitive beliefs (β=0.51, p<0.01). Conclusion: The results of the current study showed that metacognitive beliefs can play an important role in the relationship between self-efficacy and perfectionism and academic procrastination. Considering the negative consequences of procrastination on the academic health of students, it is recommended that intervention programs be prepared to appropriately change the variables affecting procrastination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although a probable association between metacognitive beliefs (also termed 'metacognitions') and emotion dysregulation has been suggested in the literature, the evidence is still sparse and inconclusive. The current study aims to present a comprehensive evaluation of the literature examining the association between metacognitive beliefs and emotion dysregulation. In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, a search was conducted on PubMed and Ebsco. A manual search of reference lists was also run. Search terms were 'metacognitions/metacognitive beliefs/positive metacognitive beliefs/negative metacognitive beliefs/cognitive self‐consciousness/beliefs about the need to control thoughts/cognitive confidence/negative beliefs about thoughts concerning uncontrollability and danger/AND difficulties emotion regulation/emotion dysregulation'. A total of 19 studies met the inclusion criteria. In both non‐clinical and clinical populations, a higher endorsement of dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs was found to be associated with emotion dysregulation and vice versa. A higher endorsement of metacognitive beliefs may be associated, either directly or via maladaptive forms of mental control (e.g., worry, rumination and suppression) to emotion dysregulation. Metacognitive beliefs could be the potential therapeutic target in clinical interventions aimed at reducing emotion regulation difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Using the Self‐Regulatory Executive Function model as a basis, this study explored whether, in patients with eating disorders (EDs), metacognitions and repetitive negative thinking are associated with higher levels of perfectionisms. Methods: One hundred twenty‐three outpatients with EDs were recruited. Perfectionism, metacognitive beliefs, worry, rumination, anger rumination, affective and eating symptoms were assessed. Correlation and hierarchal regression analyses were run. Results: Higher endorsement of positive beliefs about worry was associated with higher levels of 'personal standards perfectionism'. Higher endorsement of positive beliefs about worry, need to control thoughts, worry and rumination was associated with higher levels of 'concern over mistakes perfectionism'. Conclusions: Among patients with EDs, perfectionism appears to be associated with the endorsement of dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs, worry and rumination. Dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs and repetitive negative thinking could be suitable therapeutic targets to reduce the levels of perfectionism among patients with EDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trait anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, and metacognitive beliefs influence executive functions (EFs) and academic achievement. This study examines their interplay and impact on academic success. In total, 275 adolescents (10–17 years) and parents completed an online questionnaire assessing trait anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, metacognition, parent-reported behaviors related to executive functioning, and overall school average. Preliminary analyses confirmed consistency with the existing literature for each variable and their interaction. Furthermore, we conducted a network analysis among the main variables. This analysis supports the need to pay more attention to reflective variables—maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and metacognitive beliefs about worry—when studying trait anxiety. These variables were linked to problematic executive functioning in adolescents, and the latter was negatively linked to academic achievement. This study offers innovative insights by investigating relationships less explored in the scientific literature. It reveals high and significant correlations between metacognitive beliefs, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, and trait anxiety (r > 0.500, p < 0.001) but also between these variables and both executive functioning and academic achievement. These findings offer new perspectives for research and underscore the importance of holistically examining the psychological factors related to academic success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The commitment of nurses to their jobs and patients has made nursing one of the human service professions susceptible to burnout syndrome. Therefore, the present study aimed to predict burnout based on metacognitive beliefs and alexithymia with the mediation of optimism in nurses. Materials and Methods: The current research was based on applied purpose and descriptive-correlational research design, specifically, structural equation modeling. The statistical population in this research was all the nurses in the hospitals of Qom City in 1401, and 200 nurses were randomly selected to participate in the present research. In this field study, the participants completed Burnout questionnaires by Meslech and Jackson (1986), a metacognition questionnaire by Wells and Cartwright-Houghton (2004), the Toronto dyslexia scale, and the Scheer and Carver optimism scale (1994). Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test and structural equation model using SPSS-24 and AMOS-24 software. Results: The results showed that the correlation coefficients between the variables are significant (p

Background and Objectives: Addiction to online games negatively affects the physical and mental health of adolescents. The present study was conducted to investigate the mediating role of metacognitive beliefs in the relationship between behavioral brain systems and addiction to online games. Materials and Methods: This research was a descriptive-correlation type. The statistical population included all the first-year high school students (teenagers) in the Bastak education district in Hormozgan, Iran, who were studying in the academic year of 2021-2022, and 350 people were selected as a sample using the multi-stage cluster random sampling method. They responded to the questionnaires on behavioral inhibition/activation systems, the metacognition scale of online games, and addiction to online games. Structural modeling was used to analyze the collected data. Results: The results showed that behavioral activation systems and behavioral inhibition systems had a significant direct relationship with addiction to online games, with coefficient values of 0.41 and 0.32, respectively (P

Background and Purpose: The critical position of spirituality and spiritual wellbeing has drastically been recognized in recent decades, and cognitive flexibility and metacognitive beliefs play an essential role in health-related behaviors. The present study investigated the mediating role of spiritual wellbeing between cognitive flexibility and the students’ metacognitive beliefs. Materials and Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational. The statistical population included all students of Islamic Azad University, Sari branch, Sari City, Iran, in the 2022-2023 academic year. A total of 364 students were selected by stratified random sampling based on their education level and were asked to answer the questionnaires about spiritual wellbeing (Palotzian and Ellison, 1982), cognitive flexibility (Dennis and Vanderwaal, 2010), and metacognitive beliefs (Wells and Cartwright-Houghton, 2004). Data analysis was done by structural equation modeling using SPSS software, version 24 and AMOS software, version 23. Results: In this study, 69% of the participants were women and 31% were men. About 57% were 25 years or younger, 63% were undergraduate students, 30% were postgraduate (Master’s degree), and 7% were PhD students. The results indicated that all direct paths between study variables were significant (P

Introduction: One of the major problems presented to the mental health of substance users is the presence of suicidal thoughts and beliefs. Paying attention to metacognitive beliefs and schemas predict suicidal thoughts can be considered very important in counseling and psychotherapy. The present study aimed to predict suicidal thoughts based on metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas in male substance users in Ilam, Iran. Material & Methods: This descriptive-analytical study investigated the relationship of suicidal thoughts with metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas in male substance abusers in Ilam, in 2021-2022. A total of 170 male substance users were selected via the convenience sampling method. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire form, the Beck Suicidal Thought Questionnaire (BSSI), the Wells Metacognitive Belief Questionnaire (MCQ30), and the Leahy Emotional Schema Questionnaire (ESS-P). The data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 21) using Pearson's correlation test and multiple regressions. Findings: The results pointed to a significant negative relationship between positive schema and tendency to suicidal thoughts (P=0.001; r=-0.430). Moreover, there was a significant positive relationship between negative schema and a tendency to suicidal thoughts (P=0.001; r=0.621). Furthermore, a tendency to suicidal thoughts showed a significant positive relationship with anxiety (r=0.334), negative belief (r=0.432), low cognition (r=0.376), negative metacognition(r=0.329), and low self-awareness (r=0.334) (P=0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: Metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas can be useful predictors of suicidal thoughts in substance users. Paying attention to these factors can be effective in reducing and preventing suicidal thoughts and creating a model for improving the educational system and preventing suicide in male substance users.

Patients with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) typically report interpersonal problems, and these are important targets in treatment beyond social anxiety symptoms as they impair quality of life, maintain emotion symptoms and effect on social functioning. What factors contribute to interpersonal problems? In the current study we set out to explore the role of metacognitive beliefs as correlates of interpersonal problems in patients treated for SAD when controlling for the effect of social phobic cognitions and symptoms. The sample consisted of 52 patients with a primary diagnosis of SAD participating in a randomized controlled trial comparing cognitive therapy, paroxetine, pill placebo, or the combination of cognitive therapy and paroxetine in treating SAD. Two hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to explore change in metacognitions as predictors of change in interpersonal problems when controlling for change in social phobic cognitions and social anxiety. Change in metacognitions accounted for unique variance in interpersonal problems improvement beyond change in cognitions. Furthermore, change in cognitions overlapped with change in social anxiety symptoms, and when controlling the overlap between these three predictors, only change in metacognitions was uniquely associated with improvement in interpersonal problems. This finding indicates that metacognitions are linked to interpersonal problems in patients with SAD with the implication that treatment should aim to modify metacognitive beliefs to alleviate interpersonal dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing need to identify factors that contribute to poor work ability with an aim to prevent work related problems such as sick leave and disability pension. In the Metacognitive Control System model, dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs are seen as an underlying factor in psychological vulnerability beyond disorder, and recent studies have reported that metacognitions are associated with work ability and work status. In the present study, we set out to test if there is a prospective relationship between dysfunctional metacognitions and self-assessed work ability. Individuals in working age (M = 37.19; SD = 10.31) participated in a four-timepoint self-report survey (N = 528; 75% females) separated by six weeks between each timepoint. Baseline gender differences and differences between participants by job status were conducted using t-test and one-way ANOVA, respectively. Latent growth curve with covariates assessed the impact of dysfunctional metacognitions on work ability across the four timepoints. Males reported higher work ability. Participants in fulltime job also reported higher work ability followed by those in part-time job, jobseekers, sick leave up to 12 months, and sick leave > 12 months, respectively. Dysfunctional metacognitions predicted work ability over time when controlling for gender, age, physical health status, and three common categories of emotional distress symptoms. This finding suggest that dysfunctional metacognitions are a prospective predictor of work ability beyond health status and implies that these beliefs should be targeted with a view to increasing work ability and thus potentially reduce risk for sick leave and other work-related problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transdiagnostic approaches to psychopathology have postulated that factors related to perceived control are particularly relevant to mental health. Here we focused on a specific perceived control-related construct: metacognitive beliefs about uncontrollability. Evidence suggests that dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs play a role in the activation and maintenance of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and emotional distress. Metacognitive beliefs about the uncontrollability and danger of worry are the most strongly associated with psychopathology. In this multi-study research, we hypothesized that metacognitive beliefs about uncontrollability make a specific contribution to emotion regulation strategies and clinical symptoms. We tested our hypotheses in four different studies, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally (N = 2224). Participants completed measures of metacognitive beliefs, maladaptive strategies (e.g., worry, thought suppression), and clinical symptoms (e.g., generalized anxiety, emotional distress, depressive and anxiety symptoms). Our results showed that uncontrollability beliefs were the strongest variable associated with maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and clinical symptoms (cross-sectionally), and the only ones that predicted them in the long term. We discuss the theoretical and clinical implications of these results in the light of the metacognitive model and control-related theories. • Metacognitive beliefs about uncontrollability are specific beliefs, different from other metacognitive beliefs. • Uncontrollability beliefs are most robustly associated with relevant outcomes than other metacognitive beliefs. • Uncontrollability beliefs predict maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and clinical symptoms. • Uncontrollability beliefs should be considered an important target in the treatment of emotional disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. The target of the present study was to show the relationship between time and motives for maintaining abstinence and metacognitive beliefs about alcohol and self-conscious emotions. Methods. Ninety-one alcohol-dependent individuals who are currently maintaining abstinence participated in the study. Three instruments were used to measure individual variables: RALD was used to examine motives for maintaining abstinence, MPA was used to measure the level of individual metacognitive beliefs about alcohol, and SUM 5 was used to measure the level of self-conscious emotions in addicts who maintain abstinence. Correlation analyses were performed and differences in mean ranks of metacognition and self-awareness emotions were examined for the two independent samples. Results. All metacognitive beliefs were shown to negatively correlate with abstinence time. Some metacognitive beliefs were negatively associated with abstinence motives. Moreover, positive associations of self-conscious emotions and metacognitive beliefs with time and abstinence motives were found. Both metacognitive beliefs and self-conscious emotions have different mean levels depending on the duration of abstinence. Conclusions. The study revealed that both psychological constructs are related to abstinence maintenance and can be creatively used in further analyses of addiction recovery and relapse prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Addiction to online games negatively affects the physical and mental health of adolescents. The present study was conducted to investigate the mediating role of metacognitive beliefs in the relationship between behavioral brain systems and addiction to online games. Materials and Methods: This research was a descriptive-correlation type. The statistical population included all the first-year high school students (teenagers) in the Bastak education district in Hormozgan, Iran, who were studying in the academic year of 2021-2022, and 350 people were selected as a sample using the multi-stage cluster random sampling method. They responded to the questionnaires on behavioral inhibition/activation systems, the metacognition scale of online games, and addiction to online games. Structural modeling was used to analyze the collected data. Results: The results showed that behavioral activation systems and behavioral inhibition systems had a significant direct relationship with addiction to online games, with coefficient values of 0.41 and 0.32, respectively (P<0.001). In addition, behavioral activation systems and behavioral inhibition systems had a significant relationship with online game addiction indirectly, with a coefficient value of 0.18 and 0.13, respectively (P<0.001) through the mediation of metacognitive beliefs. Conclusion: To reduce addiction to online games, therapists and specialists should examine and evaluate the behavioral brain systems of people on the one hand and, on the other hand, seek to reduce the mechanism of incompatible metacognitive beliefs, along with cognitive and retrospective challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders. Despite the high prevalence of this disorder, there are few studies and many unknown issues about it. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of childhood traumatic experiences, attachment styles, and metacognitive beliefs in predicting the symptoms of IAD. Methods. In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 395 students (71 male, 324 female) of the University of Tabriz with associate, bachelor, master, and Ph.D. degrees were selected through the available sampling method. The questionnaires used in this research included the Whiteley Index to measure illness anxiety, the metacognitive beliefs questionnaire (MCQ-30), the checklist of traumatic life experiences to evaluate childhood traumatic experiences, and the experiences in close relationships- a revised form to evaluate attachment styles. Participants completed the questionnaires after obtaining the necessary permits and checking the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. The average age of men was 27.2 ± 8.54 and women 25.24 ± 6.84. Pearson Correlation coefficients showed that traumatic childhood experiences 0.289 , anxious attachment 0.402 , and metacognitive beliefs 0.418 have significant positive correlations with illness anxiety. Also, based on the results of simultaneous multiple regression analysis, research variables predicted 29% of the changes in symptoms of IAD significantly. Furthermore, childhood traumatic experiences, anxious attachment, and metacognitive beliefs with Beta coefficients of 0.22, 0.18, and 0.27 can significantly predict the changes related to IAD symptoms. Conclusion. Different interpersonal and metacognitive factors can play a role in IAD symptoms, but various studies such as causality and experimental studies are needed to investigate the role of different factors in IAD symptoms.

Objective: Adults with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) experience high levels of depression and anxiety that are not always effectively ameliorated by current therapeutic approaches. The Self‐Regulatory Executive Function (S‐REF) model, which underpins metacognitive therapy (MCT), posits that depression and anxiety become persistent when stored metacognitive beliefs guide an individual to respond to common thoughts and feelings in a certain way. We hypothesized that (i) metacognitive beliefs would predict depression and anxiety independently of participants' representations of their illness; and (ii) rumination would mediate independent prediction of depression and anxiety by metacognitive beliefs. Design: A prospective mediation study. Methods: Four hundred and forty‐one adults with DM (Types 1 and 2) completed a two time‐point survey. Metacognitive beliefs, illness representations and rumination were measured at baseline, and depression and anxiety measured at baseline and 6‐months later. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling. Baseline illness representations, depression and anxiety were used as control variables. Results: A structural equation analysis showed potential mediation, by baseline rumination, of any effects of baseline metacognitive variables on 6‐month distress in Type 1 and 2 diabetes samples. Significant standardized coefficients for relationships between the metacognitive latent variable and rumination were.67 (Type 1) and.75 (Type 2) and between rumination and distress of.36 and.43, respectively. These effects were independent of direct and independent effects of illness representation variables. Conclusions: Findings are consistent with metacognitive beliefs playing a key role in depression and anxiety by increasing the likelihood of rumination in adults with DM. MCT may be an effective intervention for this population, subsequent to further longitudinal testing of the S‐REF model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract \nLAY SUMMARY Sexual dysfunctions could lead individuals to experience severe impairments in health and everyday life; metacognition could play an important role in the development of sexual dysfunctions. This study aimed to synthesize evidence from studies investigating the associations between sexual dysfunctions and metacognitive beliefs. According to the PRISMA statement, literature analysis is conducted on PubMed, PsycInfo, PsycArticles, and Google Scholar. 837 participants from six studies were included; five articles were cross-sectional studies, and one was a randomized clinical trial. Individuals with sexual dysfunction adopt more metacognitive beliefs compared to the general population. The association between sexual dysfunctions and metacognitions did not show gender differences. Men with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation show high negative metacognitive beliefs, cognitive self-consciousness, and need to control thoughts. Women with sexual dysfunctions show higher scores in negative metacognitive beliefs, cognitive self-consciousness, and need to control thoughts than the general population; the results also point out that metacognitive beliefs could have a greater influence on sexual dysfunctions than other variables such as painful symptoms. The present study has succeeded in highlighting metacognitive beliefs’ role in sexual dysfunctions and the potential benefits of MCT in dealing with these conditions.The objective of this manuscript was to conduct a systematic review of research papers that connect metacognition and sexual dysfunction. The articles’ primary objectives focus on the correlation between the two variables and the finding that people who experience sexual dysfunction report having more meta-beliefs. Research and clinical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One of the major problems presented to the mental health of substance users is the presence of suicidal thoughts and beliefs. Paying attention to metacognitive beliefs and schemas predict suicidal thoughts can be considered very important in counseling and psychotherapy. The present study aimed to predict suicidal thoughts based on metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas in male substance users in Ilam, Iran. Material & Methods: This descriptive-analytical study investigated the relationship of suicidal thoughts with metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas in male substance abusers in Ilam, in 2021-2022. A total of 170 male substance users were selected via the convenience sampling method. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire form, the Beck Suicidal Thought Questionnaire (BSSI), the Wells Metacognitive Belief Questionnaire (MCQ30), and the Leahy Emotional Schema Questionnaire (ESS-P). The data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 21) using Pearson's correlation test and multiple regressions. Findings:The results pointed to a significant negative relationship between positive schema and tendency to suicidal thoughts (P=0.001; r=-0.430). Moreover, there was a significant positive relationship between negative schema and a tendency to suicidal thoughts (P=0.001; r=0.621). Furthermore, a tendency to suicidal thoughts showed a significant positive relationship with anxiety (r=0.334), negative belief (r=0.432), low cognition (r=0.376), negative metacognition(r=0.329), and low selfawareness (r=0.334) (P=0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: Metacognitive beliefs and emotional schemas can be useful predictors of suicidal thoughts in substance users. Paying attention to these factors can be effective in reducing and preventing suicidal thoughts and creating a model for improving the educational system and preventing suicide in male substance users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A review of the research literature showed that chronic pain self-management (CPSM) plays an important role in the health and optimal functioning of Affected people. However, few studies have examined the factors involved in CPSM in the form of a psychological model. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the fit of the conceptual model of CPSM based on mindfulness skills (MS), metacognitive beliefs (MB), and cognitive emotion regulation strategies (CERS) with empirical data obtained from people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Methods: The design of this research was descriptive-correlation of the type of structural equation modeling research. The statistical population of the present study included all patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain who were referred to Tehran hospitals between June 2020 and December 2021. The sample included 272 eligible individuals from two Imam Hussain and Besat hospitals in Tehran. Data were collected using PSMC-18 (Nicholas et al., 2012), FFMQ-39 (Bair et al., 2008), MCQ-30 (Wells and Cartwright-Hatton, 2004), CERQ-18 (Garnefski and Kraaij, 2006), and the GSCS-7 (Von Korff, et al., 1992) by online survey and then analyzed. Results: The results showed that the conceptual model of CPSM based on the data obtained from participants had a suitable and significant fit (CMIN/d= 2.41, SRMR= 0.068, RMSEA= 0.072, PNFI= 0.077, CFI= 0.903, IFI= 0.904, GFI= 0.872). All predictor variables were able to directly explain CPSM (p< 0.05). Also, most indirect pathways showed significant effects on CPSM (p< 0.05). Conclusion: Structural relationships of MS, MB, and CERS can provide a significant explanation for CPSM in people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Accordingly, it seems that designing educational interventions based on the proposed model can improve CPSM in these people.

Abstract Background Anxiety disorders (ADs) are associated with numerous psychiatric disorders; despite the efforts in psychotherapy models targeting their etiology, novel treatment strategies are still developing. We aimed to assess whether mindfulness and metacognition differ between patients with ADs and healthy controls (HCs) and whether the symptom severity of ADs is related to mindfulness and metacognition among patients. Two-hundred participants were enrolled in this study. Structured clinical interview, sociodemographic form, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form, Metacognition Questionnaire-30, and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale were administered. Multivariate analysis of covariance was conducted to compare the groups in terms of mindfulness and metacognition. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to measure the association between the variables. Results The main finding indicates that positive beliefs about worry are associated with reduced symptom severity of ADs. Furthermore, HCs have more positive beliefs about worry and nonjudging of inner experience compared to patients with ADs, who utilize negative beliefs about uncontrollability and danger and need to control thoughts to a greater extent. Conclusions This study demonstrates that dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs may influence the anxiety severity of adult patients. We suggest that focusing on reducing maladaptive metacognitions may be supportive of AD improvement.

The role of metacognitive beliefs towards positive and negative emotions has been stressed by several theoretical models. The Emotion Belief Questionnaire (EBQ) has been developed to assess these metacognitive beliefs. We administrated the Italian version of the EBQ, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), the DERS-Positive and the short form of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) to a sample of Italian adults. (N = 516). Structural Equation Modelling testing the factorial structure of EBQ evidenced a good fit in the four-factor model compared to the three-factor model and model with two second order variables. The EBQ showed invariance across sex, and significant associations with validating variables. These results demonstrate the goodness of the four-factor structure for the EBQ and support its use for assessment of metacognition beliefs towards emotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background. Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders. Despite the high prevalence of this disorder, there are few studies and many unknown issues about it. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of childhood traumatic experiences, attachment styles, and metacognitive beliefs in predicting the symptoms of IAD. Methods. In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 395 students (71 male, 324 female) of the University of Tabriz with associate, bachelor, master, and Ph.D. degrees were selected through the available sampling method. The questionnaires used in this research included the Whiteley Index to measure illness anxiety, the metacognitive beliefs questionnaire (MCQ-30), the checklist of traumatic life experiences to evaluate childhood traumatic experiences, and the experiences in close relationships- a revised form to evaluate attachment styles. Participants completed the questionnaires after obtaining the necessary permits and checking the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. The average age of men was 27.2 ± 8.54 and women 25.24 ± 6.84. Pearson Correlation coefficients showed that traumatic childhood experiences 0.289 (p<0.0 1 ), anxious attachment 0.402 (p<0.01), and metacognitive beliefs 0.418 (p<0.01) have significant positive correlations with illness anxiety. Also, based on the results of simultaneous multiple regression analysis, research variables predicted 29% of the changes in symptoms of IAD significantly. Furthermore, childhood traumatic experiences, anxious attachment, and metacognitive beliefs with Beta coefficients of 0.22, 0.18, and 0.27 can significantly predict the changes related to IAD symptoms. Conclusion. Different interpersonal and metacognitive factors can play a role in IAD symptoms, but various studies such as causality and experimental studies are needed to investigate the role of different factors in IAD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Animacy distinguishes living (animate) things from non-living (inanimate) things. People tend to devote attention and processing to living over nonliving things, resulting in a privileged status for animate concepts in human cognition. For example, people tend to remember more animate than inanimate items, a phenomenon known as the “animacy effect” or “animacy advantage.” To date, however, the exact cause(s) of this effect is unknown. Methods: We examined the animacy advantage in free-recall performance under computer-paced versus self-paced study conditions and using three different sets of animate and inanimate stimuli (Experiments 1 and 2). We also measured participants’ metacognitive beliefs (expectations) about the task before it began (Experiment 2). Results: We consistently obtained an animacy advantage in free-recall, regardless of whether participants studied the materials under computer-paced or self-paced conditions. Those in self-paced conditions spent less time studying items than did those in computer-paced conditions, but overall levels of recall and the occurrence of the animacy advantage were equivalent by study method. Importantly, participants devoted equivalent study time to animate and inanimate items in self-paced conditions, so the animacy advantage in those conditions cannot be attributed to study time differences. In Experiment 2, participants who believed that inanimate items were more memorable instead showed equivalent recall and study time for animate and inanimate items, suggesting that they engaged in equivalent processing of animate and inanimate items. All three sets of materials reliably produced an animacy advantage, but the effect was consistently larger for one set than the other two, indicating some contribution of item-level properties to the effect. Discussion: Overall, the results suggest that participants do not purposely allocate greater processing to animate over inanimate items, even when study is self-paced. Rather, animate items seem to naturally trigger greater richness of encoding than do inanimate items and are then better remembered, although under some conditions participants might engage in deeper processing of inanimate items which can reduce or eliminate the animacy advantage. We suggest that researchers might conceptualize mechanisms for the effect as either centering on intrinsic, item-level properties of the items or centering on extrinsic, processing-based differences between animate and inanimate items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim was to compare insight levels into obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS), and metacognitions of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and with schizophrenia with comorbid OCD (SZ-OCD). Thirty OCD patients and 30 SZ-OCD patients were evaluated; no significant difference was found between the groups in the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale (BABS) and the Metacognition Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30). When all patients were divided into two groups regardless of the presence or absence of schizophrenia as "good insight" and "poor or no insight," the MCQ-30 total score was found to be higher in the "poor or no insight" group and showed a significant but moderate positive correlation with the BABS score. This study supports that the level of insight into OCS in SZ-OCD is not significantly different from patients with OCD. Metacognitions differ not according to the distinction between OCD and SZ-OCD but according to the level of insight in whole OCD sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trait anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, and metacognitive beliefs influence executive functions (EFs) and academic achievement. This study examines their interplay and impact on academic success. In total, 275 adolescents (10–17 years) and parents completed an online questionnaire assessing trait anxiety, emotion regulation strategies, metacognition, parent-reported behaviors related to executive functioning, and overall school average. Preliminary analyses confirmed consistency with the existing literature for each variable and their interaction. Furthermore, we conducted a network analysis among the main variables. This analysis supports the need to pay more attention to reflective variables—maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and metacognitive beliefs about worry—when studying trait anxiety. These variables were linked to problematic executive functioning in adolescents, and the latter was negatively linked to academic achievement. This study offers innovative insights by investigating relationships less explored in the scientific literature. It reveals high and significant correlations between metacognitive beliefs, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, and trait anxiety (r > 0.500, p < 0.001) but also between these variables and both executive functioning and academic achievement. These findings offer new perspectives for research and underscore the importance of holistically examining the psychological factors related to academic success.

The prevalence of depressive disorders indicates the relevance of studying the factors of their formation and course, including in cognition process features and regulation. The aim of the study was to study the differences in the severity of the metacognitive experience (mental structures allowing for involuntary and voluntary regulation of intellectual activity) components of in people with symptoms of depression compared with people without symptoms of depression. Sample: 84 individuals aged 19 to 60 years (M = 25,3; SD = 6,6). Methods: self-rating depression scale by W. Zung (adaptation by T.I. Balashova), a short version of the questionnaire of metacognitive beliefs (MSQ30, adaptation by N.A. Sirota, etc.), differential reflexivity test by D.A. Leont’ev, LaCosta metacognitive behavior self-assessment scale (adaptation by A.V. Karpov). Results. The persons with symptoms of depression expressed introspection (immersion in self-observation) (p ≤ 0,001) and quasi-reflection (going into extraneous thoughts not directly related to life here and now) (p ≤ 0,05), as well as a high frequency of the use of metacognitive beliefs: opinion in the uncontrollability of their negative state (p ≤ 0,001), the need to monitor their thoughts (p ≤ 0,001), self-assessment of their cognitive functions as not working adequately (p ≤ 0,001). The resulting correlations of introspection with a range of metacognitive strategies (conscious decision-making, mental modelling — predicting the consequences of decisions made and building mental models of their knowledge in verbal or figurative form) and dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs (belief in uncontrollable anxiety, cognitive failure) are considered as potential risk factors for depressive disorder, its resistance and instability in remission.

Background: The mental health of young people is highly influenced by the identity exploration processes, social origin of identity, and information processing styles. Objectives: The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of metacognitive beliefs on dimensions of emerging adulthood (EA) identity mediated by mental health in university students. Materials & Methods: In this descriptive correlational study, the statistical population included all male and female, 18-25-year-old university students of the public universities of Tehran in 2020-21. The study sample consisted of 178 students selected through convenience sampling. The research instruments included Arnett's Inventory of the Dimensions of Emerging Adulthood (IDEA), Metacognition Questionnaire-30 (MCQ-30), and Goldberg’s General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12). The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Metacognitive beliefs was directly associated with mental health (β=0.61, P=0.001) and instability/negativity (β=0.24, P=0.010). Moreover, mental health had a significant positive association with instability/negativity (β=0.25, P=0.004) and a significant inverse association with possibilities/optimism (β=-0.23, P=0.018). The relationship between metacognitive belief with instability/negativity and possibilities/optimism was partly mediated by mental health. Conclusion: It is necessary to pay special attention to metacognitive beliefs as a factor affecting some EA dimensions such as instability/negativity and possibilities/optimism. Mental health should also be considered as the mediator in the association relationship between metacognitive beliefs and EA dimensions. Based on the results of the present study, it is recommended to hold training workshops on metacognitive strategies to improve their mental health and form identity styles.

IntroductionAnimacy distinguishes living (animate) things from non-living (inanimate) things. People tend to devote attention and processing to living over nonliving things, resulting in a privileged status for animate concepts in human cognition. For example, people tend to remember more animate than inanimate items, a phenomenon known as the “animacy effect” or “animacy advantage.” To date, however, the exact cause(s) of this effect is unknown.MethodsWe examined the animacy advantage in free-recall performance under computer-paced versus self-paced study conditions and using three different sets of animate and inanimate stimuli (Experiments 1 and 2). We also measured participants’ metacognitive beliefs (expectations) about the task before it began (Experiment 2).ResultsWe consistently obtained an animacy advantage in free-recall, regardless of whether participants studied the materials under computer-paced or self-paced conditions. Those in self-paced conditions spent less time studying items than did those in computer-paced conditions, but overall levels of recall and the occurrence of the animacy advantage were equivalent by study method. Importantly, participants devoted equivalent study time to animate and inanimate items in self-paced conditions, so the animacy advantage in those conditions cannot be attributed to study time differences. In Experiment 2, participants who believed that inanimate items were more memorable instead showed equivalent recall and study time for animate and inanimate items, suggesting that they engaged in equivalent processing of animate and inanimate items. All three sets of materials reliably produced an animacy advantage, but the effect was consistently larger for one set than the other two, indicating some contribution of item-level properties to the effect.DiscussionOverall, the results suggest that participants do not purposely allocate greater processing to animate over inanimate items, even when study is self-paced. Rather, animate items seem to naturally trigger greater richness of encoding than do inanimate items and are then better remembered, although under some conditions participants might engage in deeper processing of inanimate items which can reduce or eliminate the animacy advantage. We suggest that researchers might conceptualize mechanisms for the effect as either centering on intrinsic, item-level properties of the items or centering on extrinsic, processing-based differences between animate and inanimate items.

Process-based cognitive behavior therapy (PB-CBT) may be informed by identifying shared mechanisms of disorder linked to shared processes of therapeutic change. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is a molar pathogenic process common to both generalized anxiety disorder and depression. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and metacognitive therapy (MCT) offer separate models of the relationship between RNT and emotional distress. In a pair of related studies, the relative degree to which processes specific to the two models accounted for variability in levels of generalized anxiety and depression in college student samples was evaluated. Across both studies, processes of cognitive fusion and obstructed valued living within the ACT model and beliefs about the negative consequences of RNT within the MCT model were most predictive of variability in levels of emotional distress. Limitations of this project as well as implications for further research and practice of PB-CBT for disorders of emotional distress are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cognitive Attentional Syndrome Scale 1 Revised (CAS‐1R) is a 10‐item self‐report measure designed to assess dysfunctional metacognition, a transdiagnostic predictor of psychological disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, major depression disorder). Dysfunctional metacognition is classified into “cognitive attentional syndrome” and “metacognitive beliefs,” and the latter in turn into negative and positive beliefs. We translated the CAS‐1R into Japanese (CAS‐1R‐J) and examined its reliability and validity in a Japanese community sample. We recruited 552 participants via the Internet and received responses from 552 individuals (Time 1) and 112 individuals (Time 2). Of these, the data of 87 individuals were used to examine test–retest reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the factor structure (three‐factor model) of the CAS‐1R‐J was appropriate. Each subscale showed good internal consistency. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis showed discriminant and incremental validity for anxiety and depressive symptoms, meaning the CAS‐1R‐J is valid to assess state cognitive attentional syndrome and metacognitive beliefs among Japanese individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of metacognitive therapy in improving metacognitive beliefs and selective attention of people with depressive disorders in Tehran. Present study was a clinical trial with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. The statistical population consisted of all the female students of the universities of Tehran who were diagnosed with depression in 2019. Out of the volunteers, 30 individuals diagnosed with depression were selected and randomly assigned into either the experimental (n = 15) or the control group (n = 15). 8 sessions of metacognitive therapy was applied for the experimental group while the control group stayed on waitlist. Both groups were assessed in pretest and post-test occasions. Beck depression inventory, metacognition questionnaire, and a clinical interview based on DSM-5 were administered. Data analysis was conducted by using multivariate analysis of covariance using IBM SPSS 26. Univariate ANCOVA results of experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in metacognitive beliefs while simultaneously showing significant increase in the selective attention compared to control group. It can be concluded that metacognitive therapy can improve selective attention and decrease metacognitive beliefs and therefore it can decrease the severity of depression in participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]