Imagery-induced arousal in individuals with panic disorder

Abstract

Investigators have debated whether imagery can effectively induce arousal in persons suffering from anxiety disorders. Past research suggests that imaginal exposure to feared stimuli can successfully induce arousal among simple and social phobics. However, owing to the greater complexity of precipitating stimuli associated with panic attacks (PAs), persons with disorder (PD) have been thought to be relatively unresponsive to imaginal exposure. This study evaluated somatic and subjective arousal in individuals with PD, using relaxation, neutral, stress, and panic imagery. Unlike previous investigations, this study incorporated cognitive propositions within the imaginal scenes. As predicted, subjects exhibited significant elevations in heart rate and self-reported distress only in response to stress and panic imagery. Explicit incorporation of meaning elements (e.g., catastrophic attributions regarding the source of PA symptoms) in the imaginal reconstructions seemed integral to the success of the experimental manipulation. Discussion addresses both theoretical and clinical significance of these findings.