An analogue approach to investigate non-fear emotions and working mechanisms in imagery rescripting and imaginal exposure: Preliminary findings

• Published in: Journal of experimental psychopathology 2025-02, Vol.16 (1)
• Main Authors: Schlünzen, Jessica, Kulla, Patricia, Kruse, Joachim
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2043-8087; 2043-8087
• DOI: 10.1177/20438087241311075

Some studies suggest Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) may be more effective than Imaginal Exposure (IE) for processing trauma when non-fear emotions are predominant. ImRs has been proposed to work through positive memory revaluation and increasing mastery, while IE focuses on fear toleration through inhibitory learning. We present standardized ImRs and IE analogues to explore their impact on non-fear emotions and underlying mechanisms. Forty-one participants selected an autobiographic event and were randomly assigned to ImRs, IE, or a control condition. Core elements of ImRs and IE were delivered via audio. We repeatedly assessed event-related emotions, distress, mastery, and tolerance for negative emotions. Participants in ImRs showed greater reductions in distress, fear, and anger, but not in self-conscious emotions, compared to IE. Unexpectedly, IE participants experienced increased negative emotions, including fear, with no specific advantage for increasing tolerance. Reductions in negative emotions were also observed in the control group. We found tentative indications for positive revaluation following ImRs. In conclusion, the ImRs analogue largely facilitated expected changes, while IE led to adverse effects. We discuss potential reasons for these findings and suggest improvements for the analogues and overall procedure.