Does distress tolerance interact with trait anxiety to predict challenge or threat appraisals?

Abstract

Low distress tolerance (DT), the capacity to withstand aversive emotional or physical states, is associated with adverse psychological and physical functioning. However, we know relatively little about the psychological processes through which low DT results in poor functioning. The present study examined the effects of DT on cognitive appraisals of stress using an experimental stress-induction paradigm in 136 undergraduates. We hypothesized (1) lower DT predicts lower challenge appraisal and higher threat appraisal, and (2) these relationships are strengthened for those with higher trait anxiety. Results partially supported Hypothesis 1: Lower DT predicted higher threat appraisal, but not challenge appraisal. A significant interaction effect was found between DT and trait anxiety in predicting challenge appraisal, but the relationship was opposite from the direction predicted in Hypothesis 2, such that individuals with very high trait anxiety and lower DT made higher challenge appraisals. Future research should further examine the relations of DT, trait anxiety, and stress appraisals with respect to psychological well-being in young adults.