Positive imagery for negative symptoms : an experimental study and a case study

• Main Author: Cox, Charlotte Isobel Alexandra
• Other Authors: Jolley, Suzanne
• Published: King's College London (University of London) 2014
• Subjects: 150
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.676961

Background: Psychological models propose that amotivational negative symptoms are affected by two types of cognition: anticipatory success (believing one can achieve something) and anticipatory pleasure (mentally pre-creating potential future experiences of enjoyment). Mental imagery manipulations have been shown to effect cognitive change, and may therefore enhance psychological interventions for negative symptoms. This thesis considers the role of positive imagery in people with negative symptoms. Study 1 aimed firstly to investigate the relationship between anticipatory success, anticipatory pleasure and negative symptoms. It then looked at the impact of a positive guided imagery manipulation on these hypothesised mediating factors. Finally, the effects of anticipatory success, anticipatory pleasure and the imagery intervention on a behavioural measure of motivation were explored. Study 2 built on the findings of Study 1 to investigate the potential of guided mental imagery as an intervention to improve functioning. Method: For Study 1, 42 participants with psychosis and negative symptoms completed measures of negative symptoms and imaging ability, before random allocation to either a positive or neutral imagery manipulation. Anticipatory success and anticipatory pleasure towards a dart-throwing task were measured before and after the manipulation. A behavioural measure of motivation was included at the end of the procedure. Study 2 used a pilot case study design to evaluate a therapeutic intervention for negative symptoms using guided imagery. Results: Study 1 showed that negative symptoms were associated with anticipatory success, irrespective of controlling for ability, and with change in anticipatory pleasure. Anticipatory success improved during both imagery manipulations, with an effect of imagery type when the analysis was restricted to those imaging as instructed. Anticipatory pleasure, but not anticipatory success or imagery type, predicted motivated behaviour in relation to the task. In Study 2, a pilot case study of guided imagery focused on recovery goals showed improvements in anticipatory success and goal-directed behaviour. Conclusion: Guided imagery interventions are feasible and acceptable for people with negative symptoms of psychosis, and may improve functioning through cognitive mechanisms.