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

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 June 2009

Adrian Wells
Adrian Wells
Affiliation:
University of Oxford
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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.

Type
Research Article
Information
Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy , Volume 23 , Issue 3 , July 1995 , pp. 301 - 320
Copyright
Copyright © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 1995

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