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

Resumo

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. Studies in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) suggest that high levels of Psychological Inflexibility (PI) intensify RNT patterns and increase psychological distress. However, there are no studies evaluating the application of this assumption in the Brazilian population. This study aims to (1) explore the relationships between RNT, PI, cog­nitive fusion (CF), and psychological distress (PD); and (2) assess if PI levels influence RNT levels and if CF is a significant mediator between them. Measures of CF, RNT, and PI were filled out by 225 participants, and 187 participants answered a measure of PD. The results in­dicate that RNT is significantly and positively correlated with all assessed variables, although the correlation strength with PD was weaker compared to other populations. Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that PI had a significant impact in RNT levels, especially when mediated by CF.