In the context of Advanced Placement Psychology, this term refers to a repetitive and passive focus on the causes and consequences of one’s distress. It involves dwelling on negative feelings and problems, often without actively problem-solving or taking constructive action. An individual engaging in this thought pattern might repeatedly analyze a past argument, focusing on what they said wrong and how it made them feel, without seeking solutions or closure.
Understanding this concept is crucial for students as it relates to mood disorders, particularly depression and anxiety. Recognizing this thought pattern helps in comprehending the cognitive processes that contribute to the maintenance and exacerbation of negative emotional states. Historically, its significance has grown with the increasing emphasis on cognitive behavioral therapies, which aim to identify and modify maladaptive thought processes like this one.
