Citation

Hepburn SR, Crane C, Barnhofer T, Duggan DS, Fennell MJV, Williams JMG. Br. J. Clin. Psychol. 2009; 48(Pt 2): 209-215.

Affiliation

University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. silvia.hepburn@iop.kcl.ac.uk

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, British Psychological Society)

DOI

10.1348/014466509X414970

PMID

19254446

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Thought suppression is a strategy aimed at mental control that may paradoxically increase the frequency of unwanted thoughts. This preliminary study examined effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) on thought suppression and depression in individuals with past depression and suicidality. METHODS: In a randomized controlled trial design, 68 participants were allocated to an MBCT group or a treatment-as-usual waitlist control. Measures of thought suppression and depression were taken pre- and post-treatment. RESULTS: MBCT did not reduce thought suppression as measured by the White Bear Suppression Inventory, but significantly reduced self-reported attempts to suppress in the previous week. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evidence suggests that MBCT for suicidality may reduce thought suppression, but differential effects on thought suppression measures warrant further studies.

Language: en