Meta-Cognition and Worry: A Cognitive Model of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

1 July 1995

journal article
research article
Published by Cambridge University Press (CUP) in Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy

Vol. 23 (3) , 301-320
https://doi.org/10.1017/s1352465800015897

Abstract

A meta-cognitive classification and analysis of factors contributing to the development of problematic worry is presented. Dimensions of meta-beliefs, meta-worry, cognitive consciousness, and strategies can be distinguished. A cognitive model of Generalized Anxiety Disorder is advanced based on this framework in which GAD results from an interaction between the motivated use of worry as a coping strategy, negative appraisal of worry, and worry control attempts. These factors result from combinations of dysfunctional meta-beliefs and contribute to subjectively diminished cognitive control. The model presents new implications for a cognitive therapy of GAD, and these are illustrated with a single case treatment study.

Keywords

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