Exploring repetitive negative thoughts (RNT) in the Brazilian population: a correlational analysis

Abstract

Repetitive Negative Thinking (RNT) is a maladaptive experiential avoidance strat­egy triggered by recurrent, aversive and intrusive thoughts, present in the processes of rumi­nation and worry. Research in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) indicates that high levels of psychological inflexibility (PI) intensify RNT patterns and increase psychologi­cal distress (PD), however, there are no studies have tested the application of this premise in the Brazilian population. The objectives of this research are (1) to explore the relationships between RNT with psychological inflexibility (PI), cognitive fusion (CF), PD in the Brazilian population; and, (2) evaluate whether PI levels play a role in RNT levels and if CF is a signifi­cant mediator in this relationship. Two hundred and twenty-five participants completed mea­sures of RNT, CF and PI; 187 participants responded to a measure of psychological distress. The results indicate that the RNT is significantly positively correlated to all variables, in spite of the strength of the correlation with DP be lower than in other populations. Furthermore, the mediation analysis found that PI presents an important role in RNT levels, especially when mediated by CF.